Country | China |
Population | 32054159 |
Area | 82,403 km2 (31,816 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC+8 (CST) |
Coordinates | 29.56026, 106.55771 |
Highest elevation | 244 m (801 ft) |
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City Description
Chongqing, a sprawling municipality in Southwestern China, is one of the four direct-administered municipalities under the Central People’s Government, alongside Beijing, Shanghai, and Tianjin. Unlike the other three, Chongqing is located deep inland, covering a vast geographical area roughly the size of Austria. This classification makes Chongqing the largest city proper in the world by area, although it does not hold the largest urban area.
With a population surpassing 30 million, including a substantial rural demographic, Chongqing stands out as the only Chinese municipality with such a massive permanent population. In 2020, it overtook Shanghai as China’s largest municipality by urban population, boasting 22.8 million urban residents by 2022. The municipality encompasses 26 districts, 8 counties, and 4 autonomous counties, making it a diverse and expansive region.
Historically, Chongqing served as the wartime capital for the Republic of China during the Second Sino-Japanese War from 1937 to 1945. The city’s strategic importance and resilience during this period left a lasting legacy. On March 14, 1997, Chongqing was separated from the surrounding Sichuan province to foster development in China’s central and western regions.
Chongqing plays a crucial role in China’s economy as one of the National Central Cities. It is a significant hub for finance, manufacturing, and transportation in the Sichuan Basin and the upstream Yangtze. The city is integral to the Yangtze River Economic Belt and the Belt and Road Initiative, highlighting its economic and logistical importance.
Transportation in Chongqing is highly developed, with Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport ranking as the second-busiest airport in China and one of the top 50 busiest globally. The city’s monorail system holds the title of the world’s longest and busiest, featuring 70 stations. These robust transportation networks underline Chongqing’s status as a Beta (global second-tier) city.
The city is also an industrial powerhouse, hosting the headquarters of Changan Automobile, one of China’s “Big Four” car manufacturers. Chongqing’s international profile is further elevated by the presence of 12 foreign consulates, the fifth-highest in China after Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu.
In terms of scientific research, Chongqing ranks among the top 40 cities globally, as tracked by the Nature Index. The municipality is home to several prestigious universities, including Chongqing University, Southwest University, and Chongqing Normal University, contributing to its reputation as a center for education and innovation.
Culturally, Chongqing is known for its unique blend of modernity and tradition. The city’s vibrant nightlife, spicy cuisine, particularly the famous Chongqing hotpot, and its picturesque river landscapes make it a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. The confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers adds to the city’s scenic beauty, making Chongqing a fascinating metropolis with a rich historical and cultural tapestry.
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