View on Amazon

Discovering Chongqing: A Vibrant Megacity That Defies Expectations

Chongqing, one of China’s bustling megacities, is a sensory overload of lights, culture, and modernity. With a population exceeding 31 million as of 2023, this sprawling metropolis is a testament to human ingenuity, blending cutting-edge infrastructure with rich traditions. From towering skyscrapers to winding mountain landscapes, Chongqing is a city that feels both futuristic and timeless.

View on Amazon

A City of Contrasts

Walking through Chongqing on your first night is like stepping into another world. The streets hum with energy—vibrant street food stalls, dazzling neon lights, and a sense of community that’s palpable. It’s hard to tell whether you’ve traveled forward or backward in time. The city is high-tech yet deeply rooted in tradition, with locals proudly donning hanfu, the traditional Chinese costume, especially at iconic spots like Hongya Cave. These intricate, elegant garments reflect China’s diverse cultural heritage, with countless styles representing the country’s many ethnic minorities.

The sheer scale of Chongqing is staggering. Massive bridges, towering buildings, and a labyrinthine urban layout carved into mountainous terrain showcase the unimaginable engineering feats required to create this city. Yet, despite its size and density, Chongqing feels remarkably functional and peaceful.

View on Amazon

Iconic Experiences

One of the city’s most striking features is its infrastructure. A train zipping through a building? Just another day in Chongqing. This innovative transportation system is a necessity to navigate the millions of residents efficiently. But the real magic happens at night. A boat cruise along the Yangtze River offers a breathtaking view of the city’s skyline, its illuminated skyscrapers reflecting off the water. The sight is nothing short of spectacular, challenging any preconceived notions about what China might be like.

Honga Cave, a multi-story complex aglow with vibrant lights, is a must-visit. Here, locals and tourists alike dress in hanfu for photos, creating a festive atmosphere. Joining in is a delight—renting a hanfu costume and getting professional photos taken is affordable (around $50, including a personal photographer) and warmly welcomed by locals. Far from cultural appropriation, this is an invitation to embrace and celebrate Chinese heritage.

View on Amazon

Safety and Hospitality

What stands out most about Chongqing is its safety. Despite the dense crowds, wandering the streets at night feels secure and welcoming. Locals are friendly, eager to share their city’s charm. This hospitality extends to visitors, as seen in the warm reception at cultural activities like hanfu photo sessions or casual interactions at places like the Banyan Tree hotel, where we stayed. While typically out of our price range, this luxurious hotel was surprisingly affordable in Chongqing, offering private hot springs with stunning mountain views just 40 minutes from the city center.

View on Amazon

Affordable Luxury and Culinary Delights

Chongqing is a city of surprises, including its affordability. From high-end accommodations like the Banyan Tree to everyday experiences, the cost of living here is accessible. The city’s hot springs are a highlight, with facilities offering unique experiences like green tea-infused baths. And then there’s the food—Chongqing is famous for its spicy hot pot, but even vegan options are easy to find, thanks to helpful locals like our friend Tom, who guided us to the world’s largest hot pot restaurant.

Shopping in Chongqing is another unexpected gem. Raffles City, a premium shopping destination, boasts international and local brands, from high-end to budget-friendly. The quality and variety challenge stereotypes about “Made in China” products, offering everything from top-tier fashion to affordable, well-crafted goods.

Redefining Perceptions

Time and again, Chongqing defies expectations. The city’s prosperity, safety, and friendliness stand in stark contrast to outdated media narratives about China. As we explored, we couldn’t help but wonder: Has the media been misleading us about China all along? People here are just like people anywhere—living their lives, celebrating their culture, and welcoming visitors with open arms.

Why Visit Chongqing?

Chongqing is a city of unforgettable moments. Whether it’s marveling at the skyline from a river cruise, indulging in spicy street food, soaking in a hot spring, or dressing up in hanfu at Hongya Cave, this megacity offers something for everyone. Its blend of modernity, tradition, and warmth makes it one of the most unique and memorable destinations you’ll ever visit.

So, pack your bags and prepare to be amazed. Chongqing is waiting to show you a side of China you won’t find in headlines.

View on Amazon