Chongqing, one of China's cities with the most dynamic nighttime economies, is drawing visitors with ever-richer experiences. Since April, dazzling drone light shows have illuminated the skyline every weekend and holiday, creating a new cultural landmark while sparking sky-deck attractions, and high-altitude entertainment.
Every Saturday night, over 5,000 drones illuminate the skies above the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, creating breathtaking displays that blend technology and artistic design. Nearby rooftop attractions are quickly becoming nightlife hotspots.
A 380-meter circular suspended walkway at Raffles City immerses visitors in the thrill of "walking above the skyline", offering sweeping night views.
"The night view is beautiful, and with the drone show. It's truly stunning," said Li Xue, a visitor from the neighboring city of Chengdu.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Sky Swing on the 47th floor of Raffles City offers breathtaking views as visitors soar above the city lights. This "urban sky park" combines high-altitude views, entertainment, and interactive technology to appeal to a wide audience.
"The speed, and that view from up there, it’s amazing. All the city with the bridges, and the lights, everything. We gonna go home and tell everyone that should come here to visit," said Alina, a visitor from Romania.
As the popularity of these nighttime experiences grows, local businesses are seeing significant benefits.
"Since the drone shows became a regular event this year, we've extended our sky park's closing time from 22:00 to 23:00. And from May through October, the city's building lights stay on until 22:30, so visitors have plenty of time to enjoy high-altitude attractions while watching the show. As a result, between April and September, our Saturday evening traffic from 20:00 to 22:00 has grown by about 35 percent compared to last year, and revenue is up around 30 percent," said Cheng Nan, manager of Exploration Deck Viewing Gallery Raffles City Chongqing.
Beyond Raffles City, Yuzhong District is maximizing its skyline with more rooftop attractions. The "Cloud Eye," converted from a former helipad, now offers 360-degree views and has become a social media hotspot. Visitors can take photos at specially designed checkpoints, buy cultural souvenirs, and even try extreme sports.
As Chongqing positions itself as an international consumption center, it is expanding late-night offerings and creating new leisure experiences. As drones light up the skies and innovative rooftop venues, Chongqing is redefining nightlife, turning its famous night view into a driving force for culture, tourism, and economic growth.
Chongqing's drone shows boost night economy
