The Barracks are not close to any metro station and the best way to reach them is by taxi. Danzishi Station of the loop line is 1.5km away.
Note: You can download either Baidu Maps or Amap and navigate through the buttons below. You can also directly order a taxi through the App. Learn more in this Guide.
The French again
Right on the hillside near the Yangtze River, the French Navy Barracks is a decent stop for anyone exploring places to visit in Chongqing. Built between 1902 and 1903, this striking site was funded by French Indochina Governor Paul Doumer and constructed under the supervision of Captain Huster Nancy of the French Far East Fleet. Its architecture reflects a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences, featuring a courtyard-style layout, archways, and a grand three-tiered Chinese-style gate adorned with stone lions and an eagle (or Gallic rooster). Covering an area of 3,800 square meters, the structure’s stone base rises impressively above the riverbank, embodying both strategic design and aesthetic appeal.
Though initially built to protect French interests in the region, the barracks played a new role during World War II when it housed the French consulate. Today, this historic landmark serves as a window into Chongqing history, showcasing the city’s evolution from a semi-colonial past to a modern metropolis. The French Navy Barracks captures the essence of cultural fusion, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a deeper understanding of the city’s unique heritage.
