Chongqing becomes magnet for tourism

CHONGQING — In this famously hilly metropolis, long lines have become commonplace — whether it's waiting over 100 tables for a trendy hotpot, walking three to four kilometers to snap a photo of the iconic Hongyadong complex, or queuing for three hours to board a river cruise.

The metropolis buzzes with life, as streets teem with hungry foodies and eager sightseers, all on the hunt for their next delicious bite or stunning view.

According to the Chongqing Commission of Culture and Tourism Development, the city welcomed 22.6 million domestic tourists during the seven-day National Day holiday in October, a 14.1 percent year-on-year increase. Tourists spent around 15.4 billion yuan ($2.16 billion), up 15.8 percent year-on-year, while overnight inbound visitors surged by 140 percent.