Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1Chongqing and Chengdu are known for their hot pot, but there's a friendly rivalry between the two cities about its origin. Be sure to try both and decide for yourself! (2:15)
- Tip 2Many older buildings in Chongqing have bars on the windows, a leftover security measure from the past. It's a reminder of how much the city has changed. (7:24)
- Tip 3The seemingly 'cage-like' buildings are actually quite practical. Locals use the exterior space for storage, highlighting innovative solutions to space constraints. (10:06)
- Tip 4China uses rice in incredibly diverse ways, extending far beyond simple cooking. Explore the many rice-based snacks and treats available throughout the country. (14:10)
- Tip 5Download Oliver's free 50 travel tips for China, including Google Maps pins (use a VPN if needed) for easy navigation. This is a great resource for planning your own adventure. (21:22)
- Tip 6Chongqing has a resident's committee that works to balance tourism and community needs, showing a proactive approach to managing visitor impact. (22:24)
- Tip 7Visit Baixiang early in the morning to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the experience. The views are best when it's less busy. (23:28)
Oliver Dadema's latest vlog takes viewers on an unforgettable journey through Chongqing, China, a city he describes as 'amazing'. He explores the unique architectural marvel of Baixiang, a multi-level building with a mind-bending design that defies traditional notions of verticality. Oliver's adventure is filled with surprising discoveries, from local street food to unexpected encounters with residents and the 'Chinese Justin Bieber'. He shares insights into the daily lives of Chongqing residents and the city's fascinating blend of old and new, highlighting the reconstructed sections of the old town alongside modern skyscrapers. This video is a must-watch for anyone curious about China's vibrant culture and hidden gems.
More about the current video:( 47 / 47 )

This vlog follows Oliver Dadema’s exploration of Chongqing, China, focusing on the unique architectural design and cultural experiences. The video begins with Oliver and his friends arriving in Chongqing and preparing for a visit to the Baixiang building, a multi-level structure characterized by its unusual layout where levels shift without traditional staircases. Oliver describes the experience as a 'workout' due to the numerous levels traversed on foot.
The journey through Baixiang offers a glimpse into the daily lives of Chongqing residents. Oliver captures candid moments, such as interactions with locals, observations of the neighborhood, and sampling local street food. He highlights the juxtaposition of modern skyscrapers and older, more traditional structures, noting that some areas, seemingly ancient, are actually recent reconstructions.
The vlog also features a humorous encounter with the 'Chinese Justin Bieber', a local celebrity, adding a touch of unexpected fun to the exploration. Oliver expresses surprise at the seemingly 'cage-like' appearance of some buildings from the outside, but learns from locals that the bars on the windows are a security measure from a previous era.
Beyond the architectural marvel, Oliver showcases the vibrant local culture, including the city's famous hot pot, a subject of friendly rivalry between Chongqing and Chengdu. He also documents a visit to a local residents' committee, which illustrates the city's efforts to balance tourism and community harmony. The video concludes with Oliver sharing his enthusiasm for Chongqing and recommending the Baixiang building as a must-see destination, offering a free downloadable travel guide with Google Maps pins for easy navigation.
Throughout the vlog, Oliver maintains an engaging and conversational tone, sharing his personal observations and insights with viewers. He effectively blends the unique details of his experience with informative commentary, creating a compelling narrative that showcases the beauty and complexities of Chongqing.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
- Q: What's the deal with the Baixiang building?
- A: It's crazy! You go up and down levels without stairs, it's like walking through a magical maze!
- Q: What was the food like?
- A: Oh man, so much delicious stuff! Intestines, pig noses, tongues, the whole shebang. And those rice jellies were something else!
- Q: What's the story with the bars on the windows?
- A: They're leftover from a time when crime was more common. Now, China is much safer!
- Q: What was the most memorable part of your trip?
- A: Probably the Baixiang building, it was totally unexpected. And meeting the 'Chinese Justin Bieber' was pretty funny too!