Rio de Janeiro Politics - Brazil

Six reasons to visit Vista Chinesa and marvel at the beauties of Rio de Janeiro

By RT Staff Reporters · August 14, 2021 · 5 min read

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Vista Chinesa is located in the Alto da Boa Vista neighborhood in the city of Rio de Janeiro. The attraction is also next to the Tijuca National Park and part of the Tijuca Forest, which boasts natural beauty and exuberant fauna.

It is very easy to reach Vista Chinesa because the road leading to the site is paved and well signposted. Although the ascent is demanding, the route is viable for several forms of transport and driving. Below are the different accesses and ways to get there that you can consider on your tour:

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Accesses

Through the South Zone: If you intend to arrive from the South Zone, the most recommended access is through the Jardim Botânico neighborhood, less than 5 km from the site. The route displays beautiful waterfalls and preserved nature;

Through Barra da Tijuca: if coming from Barra da Tijuca, the best way to get there is through Boa Vista Street and also through Furnas Road. This is a historical route and was often used, even during the 19th century.

How to get there

By car: Driving to the site is a good option, because there is a parking lot available. From downtown Rio, take Dona Castorina road. The trip takes less than 1 hour;

Bus: If planning to go by bus, take the 409 bus line to Pacheco Leão Street. The rest of the way is done on foot, approximately 4.5 km to the destination. No doubt, this takes some determination;

Trails: it is common for the more adventurous visitors to reach the site by taking a trail from Lage Park. So, if you also enjoy adrenaline and a good walk, you can follow this suggestion. It involves at least 9 km, all uphill.

Bicycle: Vista Chinesa can also be reached by bicycle. The most common access is from Pacheco Leão Street. This route is signposted and features bike lanes.

Uber/Taxi: Finally, if looking for greater convenience, Uber or taxi can also be used, which are very affordable. Starting at Jardim Botânico the trip costs about R$5.00 (just under US$1), and from other neighborhoods the average cost is R$30.00.

Whatever your preferred way of reaching Vista Chinesa, you will enjoy the adventure from the very first moment of the trip. After all, this is one of the most beautiful areas of Rio de Janeiro. Enjoy every second and have fun!

Six reasons to visit Vista Chinesa

Are you ready to discover unique landscapes and unveil beautiful scenarios of the city of Rio? Then here’s why you should visit Vista Chinesa:

1. Enchanting landscape

Vista Chinesa is one of the most visited destinations in Rio de Janeiro and offers unique landscapes. The site guarantees a panoramic view of beautiful forests and mountains and delights visitors. From the viewpoint visitors can take incredible pictures and also see famous attractions in the city. Among the attractions that can be observed are GuanabaraBay, Christ the Redeemer, Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon (shown above), and even Sugar Loaf Mountain.

2. Chinese Pagoda

The structure on the Vista Chinesa is also a sight to behold and is much appreciated by visitors. The monument is known as the Chinese Pagoda and has some unique features. Its construction was completed between 1902 and 1906 and is all made of bamboo and cement. A curious fact is that the monument was built to pay tribute to the Chinese immigrants who brought tea to Brazil.

3. Local nature

Another reason why Vista Chinesa is an enchanting destination is its rich and very diverse nature. Located within Tijuca Forest, the site boasts much natural beauty and exuberant fauna and flora. During the tour visitors can see Atlantic Forest trees and a variety ofanimals, such as monkeys and hawks.

4. Waterfalls

In addition to preserved nature, Vista Chinesa is also close to other beautiful natural attractions. After visitors have enjoyed its beauty, a visit to several local waterfalls is a must. Among the main ones are the Chuveiro and Jequitibá waterfalls, which guarantee a very refreshing swim. To visit them it is important to be in the company of a local guide.

5. Mesa do Imperador Trail

The Mesa do Imperador (The Emperor’s Table) Trail is also a great idea to visit in addition to Vista Chinesa, as it also features beautiful scenery. The program starts less than 1 km from the site and is ideal for beginner adventurers. During the trip visitors can enjoy a closer contact with nature and also take some beautiful pictures. A suggestion is to picnic on site and take in the view.

6. Jardim Botânico (Botanical Garden)

Finally, as the destination is 5 km from Jardim Botânico, you should enjoy a visit to this beautiful Rio de Janeiro attraction too. The site boasts a setting of abundant beauty as well as great serenity. Birds and small wild animals, as well as rare Atlantic Forest trees can be enjoyed here. Two must-see attractions are the Museu do Meio Ambiente (Environment Museum) and the Jardim Japonês (Japanese Garden).

These attractions really make Vista Chinesa an amazing place, don’t they? The site is truly one of the most beautiful in Rio de Janeiro. Enjoy the view and all its natural beauty.

Important suggestions and information to make the most of Vista Chinesa

Check out the best tips below to make the most of the attraction and avoid any inconvenience:

Admission: the tour is free;
Length: the climb up to Vista Chinesa is about 4.8 km long, so it is not recommended for beginners. Altogether it is almost a 10 km round trip hike;
Structure: The attraction offers a simple structure with a parking area with few spaces. There are no bathrooms or shops;
What to take and what to wear: Taking water and snacks for the tour is advisable. Wear light and comfortable clothes. Don’t forget your camera, because you will take beautiful pictures along the way;
Best time to visit: Scheduling your trip for a sunny day with few clouds is important. Therefore, be sure to check the weather forecast at least one day before your trip;
Note: It is best to visit the site on weekends because it is busier. During weekdays, the site is less busy and requires more care. Never visit the attraction alone at off-peak times;
Wild animals: you will find many wild animals in the viewpoint area, but note that feeding them is forbidden;

Having made a note of this information you are now ready to get to know Vista Chinesa in its entirety and with greater ease. You are now really ready to visit one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Rio!

10 beautiful photos from Vista Chinesa to inspire your tour even more

After discovering some good tips about the Chinese view, how about getting to know it better? Check out the following beautiful pictures of this attraction. Get ready, because the visitors have given their best!

1. Are you going to Rio on your next vacation?