Chongqing: A Futuristic City Rising from WWII

China's Most Bombed City is Thriving 🇨🇳

Destination:ChinaCity:ChongqingPopulation:32 million
China's Most Bombed City is Thriving 🇨🇳
Two Mad Explorers2025-05-0825 min

Welcome to Chongqing, China. The gigantic metropolis with 32 million people living in and around it. Chongqing was heavily attacked during WWII and suffered massive amounts of damage, but today it stands to be one of China's most futuristic cities.

--- Two Mad Explorers
May 8, 2025, Spring in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00Chongqing introduction
  2. 0:27Exploring local streets
  3. 3:49Qiansimen Bridge view
  4. 4:47Chongqing food scene
  5. 6:47WWII bombing history
  6. 9:24Visiting Fuyin Church
  7. 11:13Meeting locals
  8. 16:11Original church visit
  9. 17:48Shopping mall exploration
  10. 18:31Trying Chongqing food

Two Mad Explorers explore Chongqing, China's resilient city, discovering hidden churches and delicious food, leaving them amazed by its vibrant culture.

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1Chongqing is a city where you can easily get lost for hours exploring its many streets and alleyways. Be prepared to wander and discover hidden gems. (1:06)
  2. Tip 2If you're easily overwhelmed by crowds, Chongqing might be a bit much at times. Consider visiting during off-peak seasons for a more relaxed experience. (2:08)
  3. Tip 3Navigating Chongqing can be challenging due to its multi-level structure. Use maps and be prepared to climb stairs or take escalators. (4:09)
  4. Tip 4Despite its massive population, Chongqing is remarkably clean and has very few homeless people, a testament to its efficient urban management. (8:43)
  5. Tip 5Get lost in Chongqing's many shopping malls and discover delicious food. You're bound to find something you'll love, no matter where you end up. (18:16)
  6. Tip 6Chongqing's food is known for its spiciness. Be prepared for intense flavors and have rice or soy milk on hand to cool things down if needed. (24:38)
  7. Tip 7Culinary styles vary across China. In Chongqing, expect spicy dishes; in southern provinces, you'll find sweeter and sourer flavors. (24:44)

Two Mad Explorers' China adventure takes an unexpected turn in Chongqing, a city rebuilt from the ashes of WWII. Their exploration reveals a vibrant, multi-layered metropolis teeming with life, delicious food, and surprising contrasts. From navigating bustling streets to discovering a hidden Christian community and its stunning church, their journey offers a unique glimpse into modern Chongqing's resilience and cultural richness. This is more than just a travelogue; it's a story of discovery and unexpected connections.

More about the current video:( 78 / 78 )

China's Most Bombed City is Thriving 🇨🇳

This video follows Two Mad Explorers as they delve into the heart of Chongqing, China, a city they describe as a "mental" and sprawling metropolis of over 30 million people. Their previous visit during Labor Day was hampered by massive crowds, making a proper exploration impossible. This time, they aim to truly experience Chongqing's unique character.

The video showcases Chongqing's architectural diversity, with buildings at varying heights and levels, creating a labyrinthine feel. They compare the experience to navigating a video game, highlighting the challenges and rewards of exploring this complex urban landscape. The sheer scale of the city, its diverse food scene, and vibrant nightlife are emphasized, making it a city for those who thrive in bustling environments.

Two Mad Explorers share their personal insights, noting that while they've grown to appreciate nature more, Chongqing's intense energy is a welcome change of pace. They recall their previous struggles with navigation and the sheer number of people. This time, however, they're better prepared and able to move more freely, appreciating the city's unique character more fully.

The Qiansimen Bridge offers iconic views of Chongqing, including the Hongyadong, where they previously got lost for six hours. They discuss the city's misty atmosphere, a common feature they've observed on both visits. Their journey across the bridge provides stunning vistas and a chance to reflect on Chongqing's history.

The video delves into Chongqing's history, revealing its extensive bombing during World War II. The city endured over 5,000 air raids, resulting in mass destruction. Despite this devastating past, Chongqing has emerged as a modern and thriving metropolis. The resilience of the city and its people is a key theme throughout the video.

Two Mad Explorers also share their culinary experiences, highlighting Chongqing's spicy food scene. They sample various dishes, including spicy beef and pork belly, emphasizing the unique flavors and the intensity of the spice. They discuss the differences in culinary styles across various Chinese provinces, contrasting Chongqing's spiciness with the sweeter flavors found in southern provinces.

Their exploration leads them to a beautiful church, Fuyin Church, where they encounter a welcoming community and learn about its history. They discover that the church is closed to the public due to Easter rehearsals, but a kind church member allows them access through a back entrance. Inside, they witness rehearsals for the upcoming Easter services and are deeply impressed by the beauty of the church and the dedication of its members. They also visit a century-old church nearby, highlighting the rich history of Christianity in Chongqing.

The video concludes with Two Mad Explorers exploring a modern shopping mall, finding a restaurant that serves Chongqing cuisine. They enjoy a meal, sharing their thoughts on the food and its flavors, further illustrating the city's diverse culinary landscape. Their experiences throughout the video showcase the many layers of Chongqing—its history, culture, food, and people—creating a compelling and engaging narrative.

FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)

Q: What was it like navigating Chongqing?
A: It was like a video game, with lots of levels and it was a bit scary at first, but we got used to it.
Q: What's the food like in Chongqing?
A: It's amazing! Super spicy, with lots of mala and chili. But there's also some really great pork belly and other dishes.
Q: What was the most surprising thing you found?
A: Probably the fact that there are so few homeless people in a city of 30 million! And the beautiful churches.
Q: What was your experience at the church like?
A: It was beautiful! We got to see rehearsals for Easter, and it was really moving to see the community there.
Q: What's the best way to get around Chongqing?
A: Be prepared to walk a lot, and use escalators and maps to help you navigate the many levels of the city.

Chongqing: A Futuristic City Rising from WWII

Welcome to Chongqing, China. The gigantic metropolis with 32 million people living in and around it. Chongqing was heavily attacked during WWII and suffered massive amounts of damage, but today it stands to be one of China's most futuristic cities. 🔴 We would like to thank our channel members, this...

Chongqing Exploration: Churches, Cuisine & WWII History

Explore the resilience of Chongqing, a city of 32 million that rose from the ashes of WWII to become a futuristic marvel. Witness its transformation and vibrant modern life, a testament to its enduring spirit and innovative future. A captivating journey through a city reborn.

Attractions in this video: Qiansimen Bridge, Hongyadong, Fuyin Church