Chongqing: Exploring China's Largest Metropolis

I went to China's biggest city (Chongqing). It was NOT what I expected…

Destination:ChinaCity:ChongqingPopulation:32 million
I went to China's biggest city (Chongqing). It was NOT what I expected…
Hong Kong 'Hoods2025-06-1543 min

I finally made it to mainland China! With more than 30 million residents, Chongqing is the biggest city in the world. The skyscrapers are immense and the hot pot is mouthwatering, but that doesn't cover the half of it. Here's what happened on my trip...

--- Hong Kong 'Hoods
June 15, 2025, Summer in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00Arrival in Chongqing
  2. 1:20Exploring city center
  3. 2:19Street food & Hong Ya Cave
  4. 4:57Hong Ya Cave exploration
  5. 7:38First hot pot experience
  6. 11:31People's Liberation Monument
  7. 13:48Local dumplings
  8. 18:52Kaining Lo Plaza
  9. 21:27Train through building
  10. 28:30Night market exploration
  11. 39:18Fresh dumplings

Hong Kong 'Hoods explores Chongqing, China's mega-city, experiencing its vibrant street food, stunning landmarks like Hong Ya Cave, and the unique train-through-building spectacle. A delicious, spicy adventure!

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1Explore Chongqing's street food scene; sample local dumplings and beer at hole-in-the-wall eateries. Experience the contrast between modern and traditional aspects of the city. (2:10)
  2. Tip 2Visit Hong Ya Cave, a historical landmark with shops and restaurants. The structure and nighttime lighting are impressive, but be prepared for large crowds. (6:46)
  3. Tip 3Download Alipay or WeChat Pay; China is largely cashless, and these apps are essential for transactions, even at street vendors. (18:06)
  4. Tip 4Experience the unique railway that runs through a residential building. It's an engineering marvel and a popular tourist attraction. (21:50)
  5. Tip 5Explore Chongqing's night markets for a vibrant culinary experience. Sample various street food options and soak in the lively atmosphere. (28:42)
  6. Tip 6Visit historical alleyways for a glimpse into Chongqing's traditional side, filled with shops and restaurants. (31:17)

Hong Kong 'Hoods journey to Chongqing, China's largest city, was nothing short of extraordinary. From the bustling street food scene to the iconic Hong Ya Cave and the breathtaking views from Kining Lo Plaza, the sheer scale and energy of the city left a lasting impression. The unique experience of a train passing through a residential building and the delicious, spicy Chongqing hot pot added to the adventure. This is a city where tradition and modernity collide, offering a vibrant mix of old and new.

More about the current video:

I went to China's biggest city (Chongqing). It was NOT what I expected…

This travelogue follows Hong Kong 'Hoods' exciting exploration of Chongqing, China, a sprawling metropolis often overlooked by Western travelers. The video showcases the city's dynamic blend of modern skyscrapers and ancient traditions, highlighting its vibrant street food culture and unique geographical features.

Hong Kong 'Hoods' initial impressions are filled with awe at the sheer scale and energy of Chongqing. The journey begins at the airport, immediately immersing the viewer in the city's bustling atmosphere. The traveler expresses surprise at the city's size and relative obscurity, contrasting it with better-known Chinese destinations like Shanghai and Beijing.

The exploration begins with a foray into Chongqing's street food scene. The traveler samples local dumplings and beer, highlighting the communal nature of eating in the city. A visit to Hong Ya Cave, a historical landmark, reveals a surprisingly crowded yet festive atmosphere. The traveler shares the unique experience of navigating a bustling crowd and sampling local delicacies, including a surprisingly affordable potato snack.

The video then focuses on the unique geographical aspects of Chongqing. Hong Kong 'Hoods explores Kining Lo Plaza, a plaza that unexpectedly sits high above the city, providing stunning views of the city's dramatic topography. This highlights the city's unique landscape, where modern skyscrapers rise alongside older, more traditional buildings.

The culinary journey continues with a deep dive into Chongqing hot pot, a spicy Sichuan specialty. The traveler's emotional reaction to their first taste of authentic Chongqing hot pot underscores the significance of this culinary experience. The video showcases the variety of ingredients and the intensity of the flavors, emphasizing the importance of cooling condiments.

Hong Kong 'Hoods also documents a visit to the People's Liberation Monument, a significant landmark commemorating China's history. The traveler reflects on the monument's symbolism and its importance to the city's identity. Further exploration reveals a blend of old and new, with abandoned buildings juxtaposed against modern developments, highlighting the city's rapid transformation.

The video concludes with a visit to a railway line that passes through a residential building, a testament to the city's unique engineering solutions. The traveler interacts with locals, showcasing the friendly and welcoming nature of the Chongqing people. The final scenes showcase more street food and the lively night market atmosphere, reinforcing the city's vibrant energy.

Throughout the video, Hong Kong 'Hoods shares personal insights and emotional moments, creating an engaging narrative that goes beyond the typical travelogue. The unique discoveries, local interactions, and authentic experiences offer a compelling glimpse into the heart of Chongqing, revealing a city of contrasts, energy, and unexpected delights.

FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)

Q: What's the best way to pay for things in Chongqing?
A: You'll need a pay app like Alipay or WeChat Pay; it's almost entirely cashless here!
Q: What was the most memorable food experience?
A: Definitely the Chongqing hot pot! It was so spicy and delicious, a real cultural experience. And those fresh dumplings were amazing!
Q: What was the most surprising thing about Chongqing?
A: How big it is, and how few people outside of China seem to know about it! And that train going through a building was pretty wild.
Q: What's the atmosphere like in Chongqing?
A: It's super energetic and vibrant, especially at night! Everyone's friendly and the street food scene is non-stop.

Chongqing: Exploring China's Largest Metropolis

I finally made it to mainland China! With more than 30 million residents, Chongqing is the biggest city in the world. The skyscrapers are immense and the hot pot is mouthwatering, but that doesn't cover the half of it. Here's what happened on my trip... Video Credits- Written, filmed, edited, hosted...

Chongqing Exploration: Street Food, Landmarks & Unique City Views

Explore the unexpected wonders of Chongqing, China's largest city! Hong Kong 'Hoods journey takes you through a metropolis of towering skyscrapers and tantalizing hot pot, revealing a side beyond initial impressions. This captivating adventure unveils the true essence of Chongqing, promising a memorable experience.

Attractions in this video: Hong Ya Cave, People's Liberation Monument, Kining Lo Plaza