When it comes to massive metropolises, most people think of New York or Tokyo, but the true titleholder for the world’s largest city might surprise you. It is a China.
China’s Chonging, the world’s largest city, is considered to be a megacity that spans 82,400 square kilometers. It is made of 26 districts and 12 counties, with a population at around 34 million.
The city was established on March 14, 1997, separating it from Sichuan. It was a model for the development of a megacity, and holds much historical and cultural importance.
Chongqing has switched from heavy industry to car manufacturing and information technology. Over the last 20 years, the switch has increased the city’s GDP per capita by 16 times, and doubled its urbanization rate.
In 2024, Chongqing produced even more than the U.K. and France combined. The city thus earned its nickname as “China’s Detroit.”
Chongqing is also known as the “Mountain City” due to its mountainous terrains. Its infrastructures are built along and around hills, creating a complex traffic network.
Chongqing is also known as the “Fog City,” with foggy days accounting for over 100 days in a year.
