How Does Chongqing’s Rapid Modernization Create Unmissable Travel Experiences for Culture Enthusiasts and Adventure Seekers?

Published on March 20, 2025

As China celebrates 75 years of remarkable development, the Western China International Communication Organization has launched a special series titled “China, An Opportunity Through Opening Up.” This series delves into the lives of ten foreigners who have made Chongqing their home, offering a unique perspective on the city’s transformation into an international metropolis. Through their personal stories, these individuals showcase how China’s modernization has created vast opportunities for career, education, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange.

A Thriving Global Community in Chongqing

Chongqing, once a traditional inland city, has evolved into a bustling international hub. Foreigners like Nikolaos Chatzipetros, a Greek national and General Manager of Niccolo Chongqing, share insights on the city’s journey toward becoming a cosmopolitan center. Chatzipetros highlights the growth of the high-end hotel industry, which has mirrored the city’s ambition to become a major player in the global tourism market. As international business and tourism expand, the city’s hospitality sector is thriving.

In the realm of literature, Jorah Kai Wood, a Canadian teacher and writer, finds China’s vibrant culture an endless source of inspiration for his literary works. His experience in Chongqing has fueled his creativity, reflecting the dynamic cultural landscape that China’s rise has cultivated.

Similarly, Daiki Yamagami, a Japanese entrepreneur, views China as a land of boundless opportunity for business growth. He shares how the city’s rapidly growing infrastructure and access to resources have facilitated his successful ventures, underlining how Chongqing serves as a stepping stone for global businesses to tap into the vast Chinese market.

A New Era for Education and Health in Chongqing

Chongqing’s transformation isn’t just economic—it’s also educational and medical. Dr. Tseng Hsien Cho, an Associate Medical Director at Raffles Hospital Chongqing, reflects on his personal journey that blends his Taiwanese heritage and Singaporean citizenship with his professional ties to Chongqing. His insights offer a glimpse into how the city’s healthcare sector is not only advancing but also attracting international talent to contribute to the country’s medical field.

For Emily Hulme, an American English teacher, comedian, and short filmmaker, Chongqing has become a place of self-discovery. She shares how the city has not only enriched her career but also provided her with a deep sense of belonging. Through her diverse experiences, Hulme exemplifies how foreigners in Chongqing find opportunities to connect with local communities and forge meaningful cultural bonds.

Cultural Exchange Through Food and Architecture

The fusion of international cultures in Chongqing is also evident in the city’s food culture. Franco Bergamino, an Italian dessert studio owner, believes that food culture plays a pivotal role in promoting cross-national exchange. His passion for creating traditional Italian desserts has not only allowed him to connect with locals but also enriched Chongqing’s culinary diversity, contributing to the city’s dynamic food scene.

Architecture, too, plays an essential role in Chongqing’s rapid modernization. David Nicolas Derksen, a German architect, marvels at how the city blends traditional Chinese elements with modern architectural designs. The unique skyline of Chongqing has captured the attention of architects and travelers worldwide, offering a fascinating juxtaposition of ancient heritage and cutting-edge design.

Building Strong Communities and Education in Chongqing

In addition to business and culture, education is a key focus in Chongqing’s growth. Elvira Maglalang, a Filipino English teacher, has lived in Chongqing since 2004 and is now a pillar of support for the Filipino community in the city. Through her role, she has helped integrate international communities, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and unity among foreign nationals.

Lastly, Frank Stonier, an American professor at Southwest University, has embraced Chongqing as his “first hometown.” As a professor at the Faculty of Education and the Dean of the STEAM Interdisciplinary International Educational Research Center, Stonier’s work has had a profound impact on the local community. His contributions have enriched Chongqing’s education system, aligning with China’s broader goals of fostering global talent and creating a diverse, inclusive educational environment.

Witnessing China’s Modernization Through Foreign Eyes

The stories of these foreign residents in Chongqing highlight how China’s opening up has provided them with opportunities that they might not have found elsewhere. Each person has contributed to the city’s growth, whether through business, education, or cultural exchange, and in turn, they have witnessed China’s remarkable evolution.

The series “China, An Opportunity Through Opening Up” serves as a testament to how foreign nationals have not only thrived in Chongqing’s growth but have also contributed to the city’s rise as a global hub. From hospitality and entrepreneurship to education and cultural exchange, Chongqing’s opportunities reflect China’s broader goals of modernization and international integration. These foreign stories are a microcosm of China’s greater transformation into an interconnected global power, embracing both local culture and international collaboration.

Through the narratives of Nikolaos, Jorah, Daiki, and others, we gain valuable insight into how China’s growth is creating a dynamic space for foreigners to shape and be shaped by the nation’s evolution. Their journeys mirror the country’s larger transformation and provide a unique perspective on China’s global outreach, which benefits not just Chinese citizens but also the international community.