population: 30.49 million

extension: 82,403 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Chongqing and interested in museums, one must-visit destination is the Three Gorges Museum, which offers exhibits on the history and culture of the region, including artifacts from the famous Three Gorges area. Other museums in the city include the Chongqing Museum of Natural History, the Chongqing Science and Technology Museum, and the Sichuan Fine Arts Institute Museum. If you're interested in similar types of destinations, you may also want to check out the Chongqing Art Museum or the Chongqing China Three Gorges Museum branch.

Food

Chongqing is known for its spicy and flavorful cuisine, often referred to as "Chongqing cuisine" or "Yu cuisine". Some of the most recommended and popular dishes according to locals include:
- Hotpot (also known as "huoguo"): a communal dish where ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and tofu are cooked in a spicy broth at the table
- Mala Xiangguo: stir-fried ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and noodles in a spicy and numbing sauce made from Sichuan peppercorns and chili peppers
- Dan dan noodles: wheat noodles served with minced pork, chili oil, Sichuan peppercorns, and other seasonings
- Gongbao chicken (also known as Kung Pao chicken): diced chicken stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and spicy sauce
- Shui Zhu Yu (also known as water-boiled fish): tender fish fillets served in a fiery broth with vegetables and chili oil.

Note that these dishes can be quite spicy, so be sure to let the waiter know your spice tolerance!

Activities

Sure, here are a few fun activities that locals in Chongqing enjoy:

1. Hot Pot - Chongqing is famous for its spicy hot pot, which is a must-try dish for visitors. Locals love gathering with friends and family to enjoy a hot pot meal together.

2. Night Market - There are several night markets in Chongqing, such as the Jiefangbei Night Market and Nanbin Road Night Market. These markets offer a wide variety of street food, games, and souvenirs.

3. Visiting Hongya Cave - This historical landmark is a popular tourist destination, but it's also a favorite spot for locals. You can explore the cave's winding streets, shops, and restaurants while enjoying panoramic views of the Jialing River.

4. Taking a Yangtze River Cruise - Chongqing is the starting point for many Yangtze River cruises, which are a great way to see the scenic Three Gorges area. Many locals take these cruises for a relaxing getaway.

5. Hiking at Nanshan Mountain - Located on the outskirts of Chongqing, Nanshan Mountain offers spectacular views of the city and a challenging hike for outdoor enthusiasts. Locals often visit this mountain to enjoy nature and get some exercise.