Fun Classes for Expats Living in Chongqing

By Betsy Burlingame

SJB Global
SJB Global

Summary: One of the best ways to get settled after a move is to get out there and do something. Enhance your experience in Chongqing by joining classes that are great for meeting people and adapting to life abroad.

Chongqing, a bustling metropolis nestled in the mountains of Southwest China, offers a vibrant expat and digital nomad community a variety of classes to enrich their stay. Whether you're looking to dive into the local culture through cooking classes, expand your language skills, or unleash your creativity with art and wine, there's something for everyone. Engaging in these classes not only provides valuable learning experiences but also serves as a fantastic opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and integrate into the local community. Below is a curated list of classes that cater to English-speaking adults in Chongqing, ensuring that even those still mastering Mandarin can fully enjoy and benefit from these offerings.

Chongqing Language and Culture Institute

Type of Class(es): Mandarin Language Courses
Location: Yuzhong District, Chongqing

For expats and digital nomads eager to improve their Mandarin, the Chongqing Language and Culture Institute offers a range of language courses from beginner to advanced levels. The classes are designed to enhance practical communication skills, making daily life and integration into the local culture much smoother.

Chongqing Culinary Arts School

Type of Class(es): Sichuan Cuisine Cooking Classes
Location: Nan'an District, Chongqing

Immerse yourself in the fiery world of Sichuan cuisine with hands-on cooking classes. The Chongqing Culinary Arts School provides English-speaking chefs to guide you through the intricacies of local dishes, offering both group and private lessons to suit your learning style.

Chongqing Art Studio

Type of Class(es): Painting and Calligraphy
Location: Shapingba District, Chongqing

Unleash your inner artist at the Chongqing Art Studio. Classes in painting and calligraphy are available for all skill levels, providing a peaceful retreat to learn traditional Chinese art forms while mingling with fellow art enthusiasts.

Chongqing Wine Society

Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting and Appreciation
Location: Jiangbei District, Chongqing

Join the Chongqing Wine Society for an educational journey through the world of wines. Their tasting classes cater to both novices and connoisseurs, offering a sophisticated environment to learn about wine varieties, pairing, and the art of appreciation.

Chongqing International Photography Center

Type of Class(es): Photography Workshops
Location: Jiulongpo District, Chongqing

Whether you're a hobbyist or an aspiring professional, the Chongqing International Photography Center offers workshops that cover various aspects of photography. Learn about composition, lighting, and editing while capturing the city's unique landscapes and urban scenes.

Chongqing Tea Culture Club

Type of Class(es): Tea Tasting and Ceremony
Location: Beibei District, Chongqing

Experience the tranquility and depth of Chinese tea culture with the Chongqing Tea Culture Club. Their classes teach the art of tea tasting and the traditional tea ceremony, providing a serene space to relax and connect with fellow tea lovers.

Chongqing International Cookery School

Type of Class(es): International Cuisine Workshops
Location: Yubei District, Chongqing

For those interested in expanding their culinary repertoire beyond local flavors, the Chongqing International Cookery School offers workshops on various international cuisines. These classes are a great way to learn new cooking techniques and recipes while socializing with other food enthusiasts.

Chongqing Crafters Guild

Type of Class(es): Handicraft Workshops
Location: Dadukou District, Chongqing

Join the Chongqing Crafters Guild for workshops on traditional Chinese handicrafts. From paper-cutting to embroidery, these classes allow you to create beautiful, handmade items while appreciating the intricate craftsmanship of local artisans.

Chongqing Writers' Workshop

Type of Class(es): Creative Writing and Literature
Location: Nanping, Chongqing

Aspiring writers and literature enthusiasts will find a community at the Chongqing Writers' Workshop. Engage in discussions, receive feedback on your work, and participate in writing exercises to hone your craft and express your creativity.

Chongqing Music Academy

Type of Class(es): Instrumental and Vocal Music Lessons
Location: Guanyinqiao, Chongqing

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced musician, the Chongqing Music Academy offers lessons in a variety of instruments and vocal training. Learn from skilled instructors and enjoy the universal language of music as you connect with fellow music lovers.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB Global
SJB Global

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