Chongqing

Chongqing, also romanized as Chungking, is a major city in Southwestern China. Administratively, it is one of the four direct-controlled municipalities of the People's Republic of China (along with Beijing, Shanghai, and Tianjin), having province-level status.

Located at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, Chongqing has a long and rich history, serving as a vital inland port and trading center for centuries. During the Second Sino-Japanese War (World War II), it served as the wartime capital of the Republic of China from 1937 to 1945 after Nanjing fell to the Japanese. This period profoundly shaped the city's identity and resilience.

Today, Chongqing is a rapidly growing economic hub and a major center for manufacturing, transportation, and culture in the region. Its economy is driven by industries ranging from automobiles and chemicals to machinery and information technology. The city is also a significant transportation hub, boasting a major port, railway station, and international airport.

Chongqing is known for its unique geographical landscape, characterized by mountains, rivers, and dense fog, which has earned it the nickname "Mountain City" and "Fog City". The city's cuisine is also famous, particularly for its spicy and flavorful dishes, often featuring Sichuan peppercorns. Popular attractions include the Dazu Rock Carvings (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Three Gorges Museum, and the Ciqikou Ancient Town.