Southeast Asian Tourists Surge 12-Fold in Chongqing Driven by Social Media

Chongqing, China, has seen a dramatic surge in tourism from Southeast Asia in 2025, driven largely by viral social media content showcasing its unique urban landscapes and architecture, such as monorails running through buildings and multi-level structures on hilly terrain. Flight bookings to Chongqing increased more than sixfold during the Dragon Boat Festival holiday compared to the previous year, with demand for the city rising nearly 12 times that of other destinations, according to travel industry sources. The city’s blend of natural attractions like the Three Gorges and Dazu Rock Carvings, alongside its futuristic, cyberpunk-inspired architecture, has captured the attention of millennial and Gen Z travelers who heavily rely on social media for travel inspiration. Visitors like Ong Chong Yu from Singapore highlight Chongqing's distinctive topography, where building floors correspond to different elevations, creating an '8D magic' effect popularized on platforms such as Douyin and TikTok. Additionally, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Dazu Rock Carvings has been revitalized through the integration of advanced digital technologies including AI, cloud computing, and big data, enhancing tourist experiences with 8K dome theater movies and VR programs. Improvements in amenities and diverse attractions further contribute to Chongqing’s growing appeal among young travelers.