Stone streets, a working temple, and a crush of sesame candy. The old fabric is real. The number of shops selling the same cake is also real. Walk to the temple and the river, then stop consuming.
This is a lived old town that has been heavily commercialized. The tag is cultural, not a claim that every facade is Ming.
The river steps at the bottom are the relief from the main lane.
Getting there
Metro to Ciqikou station, then a walk down into the town. It is not next to Hongya. Give it a half day.
Staying nearby
Possible, and quiet in the morning before the shops open, which is the best hour. A poor base if your train is at Chongqing North. Most people should sleep central and visit.