Chongqing—Chongqing is experiencing an extraordinary tourism boom, with inbound visitors surging to 923,000+ since 2025. Drawn by the megacity's dramatic landscapes and vibrant culture, international travelers describe it as a destination unlike any other.

Visitors from Norway, England, Saudi Arabia, France, the U.S., Spain, Venezuela, Argentina, and beyond expressed awe at Chongqing's unique character. "It's really cool, really interesting and unique," said Andreas from Norway, while Juan from Argentina praised it as "a beautiful and unique city." Many cited social media fame and Chongqing’s reputation as "one of the world’s largest cities" as key motivators for their visit.

The city's vertical architecture left a profound impression. A U.S. traveler, Stephen, shared his disorienting yet fascinating experience: "My hotel is basically an elevator – it took a while to figure out you go to the 22nd floor to reach the street!" Others marveled at how "every single corner" is utilized, with shops and life tucked into improbable spaces. The striking contrast between serene mornings and vibrant nights also stood out. Stephen noted, "This morning I walked along the river park from 7 to 10 AM – there was absolutely nobody. But at night, it's a zoo!"

English Tourist Prof.G Walker highlighted explorations across iconic sites, including Hongyadong's cave-like streets, Liziba's train-piercing skyscraper, Raffles City's sky bridges, and the Grand Theatre's riverside platforms. "Seeing Chongqing from the river level reveals how it’s built on stilts and platforms," remarked a Venezuelan tourist, Mauricio, appreciating the city’s infrastructural ingenuity.

No visit was complete without experiencing Chongqing's fiery culinary signature. Javi and Sandra, as Spanish tourists, particularly raved about Pipayuan, calling it "the largest hot pot restaurant in the world" and "so impressive." Despite the summer heat, visitors unanimously praised the city's energy and distinct charm compared to other Chinese megacities. "We thought it would be crazier than Shanghai or Beijing, but we were surprised – we like it so much more!" confessed this Spanish couple.

With its cinematic nights, labyrinthine layers, and dynamic spirit, Chongqing continues to solidify its status as China's unmissable vertical marvel, where every ascent promises a new adventure.

(Yan Jingwen, as an intern, also contributed to the report.)