Chongqing, located in the southwestern part of China, is one of the country's four direct-controlled municipalities, along with Beijing, Shanghai, and Tianjin. Chongqing boasts a complex history spanning over 3,000 years and has been a regional trade center as well as a transportation hub since its early days. The city is known for its rugged terrain, with numerous hills and a dramatic landscape that includes the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers. Chongqing serves as an important economic center of the Yangtze basin, with a significant manufacturing sector. It is also famous for its spicy and flavorful cuisine, including the world-renowned hotpot. The area experiences a humid subtropical climate with foggy and humid conditions throughout much of the year, giving it the nickname 'Fog City.' Chongqing's urban sprawl is immense and houses a massive population. As a tourist destination, the city is highlighted by the Dazu Rock Carvings, Ciqikou Ancient Town, and various cultural and recreational attractions. The city's rapid development has brought about a mix of old and new, with towering skyscrapers alongside traditional stilt houses on the riverbank.
