Chongqing became widely known online as the “8D city” because of its urban layout situated on hilly terrain, and has now emerged as a popular destination for travelers around the world.

Chongqing, often referred to as “the most confusing city,” has emerged as one of China’s top tourist destinations in recent years.

Numerous Chinese and global social media influencers have joined the popular trend of producing videos showcasing the city’s confusing, hilly urban environment.

Llewellyn Cheung from the South China Morning Post visited Chongqing to meet a local content creator and tourism specialists, aiming to discover the city’s true nature beyond popular trends, and understand why its achievements are difficult to copy in other parts of China.

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This piece was first published in the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), a top news outlet covering China and Asia.

Copyright (c) 2026. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

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