Chongqing, the "Cyberpunk City" of southwestern China, is experiencing a surge in ASEAN tourists. Recent data from the city's tourism authorities reveals a significant increase in visitors during the first quarter of the year.
Notably, the number of tourists from Indonesia and Malaysia jumped by 30 percent year-on-year. This growth is attributed to Chongqing's unique tourism resources, favorable travel policies, and convenient transportation options.
Ailin, a 65-year-old tourist from Malaysia, recently visited Chongqing for the first time. She was captivated by the city's iconic features, such as the Light Rail Transit (LRT) passing through buildings and the vibrant Hongyadong district with its stunning architecture.
Chongqing, situated along the Yangtze River, offers breathtaking river views. Thida, a tourist from Myanmar, enjoyed a cable car ride over the Yangtze River. She found Chongqing's nighttime cityscape modern and impressive, praising the city's balance between economic development and environmental preservation.
Thida also explored the renowned Dazu Rock Carvings, commending China's successful efforts in preserving cultural heritage. No visit to Chongqing is complete without indulging in its spicy cuisine.
Chongqing hotpot and spicy fried chicken are popular culinary attractions, drawing many foreign tourists. The opening of direct flight routes between Chongqing and major Southeast Asian cities is expected to further boost exchanges between Chongqing and ASEAN countries.
During the 2025 Chinese New Year holiday, Chongqing welcomed approximately 17,000 inbound visits, marking a 69 percent year-on-year increase. Furthermore, visa-free policies for numerous countries are enabling more tourists to experience China's tourism offerings.