Chongqing, China, is increasingly capturing the attention of international visitors who are moving beyond the usual sightseeing tours and seeking distinctive, everyday urban charm.
A prime example is the Underground City hotpot restaurant in the Liangjiang New Area, a former air raid shelter that has been converted into a massive dining space with 218 tables, accommodating over 1,300 diners.
The restaurant preserves the cave's original rock walls and features thousands of twinkling sky lanterns on the ceiling, creating a unique and romantic atmosphere.
The novelty of the experience has fuelled a global trend, with a video featuring the place garnering over three million views on YouTube, and attracting large numbers of international visitors.
This growth in global interest led to Chongqing's ports handling a record high of over 760,000 inbound and outbound trips by foreign travellers in 2025, according to a statement.
Known as the "eight-dimensional magic city", Chongqing appeals to tourists wanting an up-close urban life experience through more than 100 distinctive experiences built around its unique geography, including its rivers, cliffs, streets, caves, and skyline.
The city is committed to developing new consumer destinations by leveraging on its mountain-city night views, waterfront stretches, back streets, alleyways, and rooftop spaces.
Furthermore, Liangjiang New Area aims to use its historical and cultural resources to create more distinct and attractive experiences. – Bernama
