Chongqing: Exploring China's Futuristic Megacity

Entering The World’s Largest City You’ve Never Heard Of

Destination:ChinaCity:ChongqingPopulation:32 million
Entering The World’s Largest City You’ve Never Heard Of
Drew Binsky2024-12-2225 min

I made it to Chongqing, China!! With a population of 36 million (yes, you read that right – 36 million!), Chongqing is a municipality that feels more like its own country. This city is massive and chaotic with futuristic skyscrapers and bustling street markets. It’s one of the most affordable big cities in the world and there’s something here for everyone to explore.

In this old-school travel vlog, I’ll take you on an adventure through the heart of Chongqing to meet the locals, try some of the spiciest food (hot pot, anyone?), and uncover the wacky culture that makes Chongqing such a unique destination.

What really stood out to me about Chongqing is how it has all the energy and conveniences of a place like Hong Kong, but with almost ZERO tourists. The culture shock here is real, the people are incredibly kind, and the vibe is unlike any other city I’ve experienced in my travels to all 197 countries.

--- Drew Binsky
December 22, 2024, Winter in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00Introduction to Chongqing
  2. 1:04Drew's three goals
  3. 1:27Chongqing's 5D City
  4. 2:10Culture shock and navigation
  5. 3:30Meeting local friend Joy
  6. 5:27Trying street food
  7. 7:18Traditional food and Hot Pot
  8. 10:17Capybara cafe visit
  9. 10:41Ear wax removal experience
  10. 12:52Exploring the old city
  11. 15:32Nightlife and street food
  12. 20:41Hot pot experience
  13. 22:25Making friends with locals

Drew Binsky discovers Chongqing, China's surprisingly affordable and vibrant megacity. He explores its unique architecture, enjoys delicious street food, and connects with locals, leaving with an unforgettable cultural experience.

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1Be prepared for culture shock in Chongqing; almost no English signage, and the city's layout is incredibly complex and multi-layered. Navigating requires paying close attention and looking in all directions. (2:10)
  2. Tip 2The Chongqing metro is unlike any other; it literally emerges from the side of buildings, a testament to the city's unique architecture. (2:20)
  3. Tip 3Consider hiring a local guide to explore the hidden corners of Chongqing and experience the city beyond the tourist areas. (3:30)
  4. Tip 4Chongqing offers amazing and affordable street food; explore the various markets and stalls to sample a wide variety of flavors and textures. (5:35)
  5. Tip 5Allocate a small budget to explore the street food scene; you can try many different dishes for a very reasonable price. (7:05)
  6. Tip 6Visit a unique cafe featuring capybaras for a memorable and unusual experience. (10:17)
  7. Tip 7Chongqing is surprisingly affordable; housing costs are significantly lower than in other major Asian cities, especially in the city center. (13:19)
  8. Tip 8Explore the cultural heritage sites; the ancient walls and hidden cafes offer a different perspective on Chongqing's history and charm. (17:08)
  9. Tip 9If you are not afraid of heights, visit the skybridge on the top of a skyscraper for breathtaking views of the city. (17:55)
  10. Tip 10Try the local hot pot; it's a communal dining experience that embodies Chongqing's culinary culture and spiciness. (20:41)

Explore Chongqing, a sprawling Chinese megacity brimming with hidden gems and unique experiences. Drew Binsky's journey reveals a city of contrasts: futuristic skyscrapers juxtaposed with traditional neighborhoods, bustling markets alongside tranquil squares. From spicy hot pot adventures to encounters with friendly locals, Drew's exploration unveils Chongqing's vibrant culture and affordability, defying expectations of a typical Chinese metropolis. A must-watch for adventurous travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations!

More about the current video:( 5 / 5 )

Entering The World’s Largest City You’ve Never Heard Of

This travel vlog follows Drew Binsky's exploration of Chongqing, China, a megacity of 36 million people largely unknown to the West. The editor highlights Chongqing's unique architectural features, often described as a "5D city" due to its multi-level infrastructure and maze-like streets.

Drew's journey is marked by cultural immersion. He interacts with locals, attempts to navigate the city's complex layout, and experiences the local culture firsthand. The sheer scale of the city and the density of its population are repeatedly emphasized, creating a sense of awe and wonder.

Food plays a significant role in the narrative. Drew samples various street foods and indulges in Chongqing's famous hot pot, highlighting the city's culinary diversity and the spiciness of its cuisine. He also notes the affordability of food in Chongqing, contrasting it with other major Asian cities.

The vlog also touches upon the city's modern amenities, including its extensive and unique metro system. Drew highlights the contrast between the modern skyscrapers and the traditional neighborhoods, showcasing the city's blend of old and new.

Drew's personal experiences, including his interactions with locals and his attempts to complete his adventure within a budget, add a personal touch to the narrative. The editor emphasizes the kindness of the people he encounters and the overall positive experience Drew has in this unexpected destination. The video also features a fun detour to a unique café with capybaras, adding an element of surprise and whimsy to the journey. Finally, Drew's DNA test results add an unexpected layer to the narrative, revealing his ancestry and offering a playful contrast to the serious cultural exploration of Chongqing.

The overall tone of the summary is one of excitement and discovery, emphasizing the unique aspects of Chongqing that make it a stand-out destination.

Chongqing: Exploring China's Futuristic Megacity

Drew explores Chongqing, China's massive, affordable megacity. He experiences the unique culture, spicy food, and friendly locals, creating an unforgettable adventure.

Chongqing: Exploring China's 5D Megacity

Chongqing, a municipality with a staggering population of 36 million, feels like a country of its own. This sprawling city is a captivating blend of futuristic skyscrapers and vibrant street markets, offering an affordable and unique travel experience. Drew Binsky's journey takes viewers through the heart of Chongqing, showcasing its energetic atmosphere, kind locals, and distinctive culture. He samples the spicy local cuisine, including hot pot, and contrasts Chongqing's energy with its surprising lack of tourists, creating a truly memorable cultural immersion unlike any other city he's visited in his global travels.