Chongqing - In its latest report, the Ocean Engine City Research Institute from Douyin, known globally as TikTok, has showcased the allure of Chongqing's nighttime scene, cementing its position as one of the leading urban nighttime economies.

Chongqing holds a coveted position atop Douyin's Beautiful City List. (Photo/ Zheng Ran)

'Fun Night' model dominates Chongqing and Shanghai

In the report, Chongqing's dominance is evident, with the city having secured the top spot on Douyin's Beautiful City List for an outstanding 20 consecutive months. The city has masterfully utilized its unique geographical features, blending its mountains, waters, urban landscapes, and bridges into an engaging nighttime panorama. A prime example is the Changjiahui Scenic Spot, which has emerged as a focal point, highlighting the city's multi-dimensional mountainous landscape and shimmering riverine setting.

The ambiance, reminiscent of the movie "Spirited Away," combined with the mysterious "Eye in the Cloud" and avant-garde "8D cyberpunk" visuals, encapsulate the city's enchanting nighttime spirit.

Chongqing boasts an eighth-place rank in nighttime consumption and fourth in nighttime activities. The "fun night" model thrives, emphasizing entertainment, particularly in Chongqing and Shanghai.

Data analysis reveals the city's vibrant nocturnal atmosphere resonates with women and the younger crowd. Of those interacting with content related to Chongqing nights over the past five months, 59% are female, while nearly 70% fall within the 18-40 age bracket.

Phrases like "8D Magic" and "Future City" are swiftly becoming synonymous with Chongqing's nighttime mystique.

Chongqing nights captivate women and the younger demographic. (Photo/ Zheng Ran)

Various measures to ensure nighttime prosperity

Using short videos and live streams, the city's adept use of the "planting grass" economy has skyrocketed Chongqing's appeal among Douyin's audience.

"Planting grass," or Zhongcao, involves promoting premium products or experiences, generating interest based on external endorsements. The city's Spring Festival fireworks display was a testament to its success, raking in a staggering 1.35 billion online views and thereby widening Chongqing's outreach. Moreover, the festival's transportation amenities, such as extended subway hours and shuttle services, received widespread acclaim.

In another feather to its cap, Chongqing's "Night Market Culture Festival," an annual event for the past four years, saw participation from over 200,000 vendors and attracted 160 million visitors. Impressively, the event generated sales exceeding 7.3 billion yuan (10.12 billion U.S. dollars) in its last edition.

Chongqing's strategies for nighttime prosperity are multifaceted. From transforming select streets into pedestrian zones after dusk to ramping up night bus services and optimizing online car-booking services, the city ensures a seamless nocturnal experience for its residents and visitors.

A critical element of Chongqing's thriving night scene is its holistic integration of business, tourism, culture, and sports. The city's strategic endeavors, such as hosting nighttime economy investment sessions and capitalizing on policy backing, infuse its nighttime culture with a perfect mix of local essence and global outlook.

A night market at Nanbin Road, Nanan District, Chongqing. (Photo/ Guo Xu)