Editor's Note: China is planning to strengthen its transport sector over the next 15 years. As it shapes a new domestic transport framework, touring a city cluster over a weekend has become an easy task. This last episode of the series introduces the Chengdu-Chongqing economic circle.

Located on the upper reaches of the Yangtze River, the neighboring cities of Chengdu and Chongqing in southwestern China have joined hands to build themselves into an economic and technological hub as well as a location for high-quality lifestyle.

The launch of the Chengdu-Chongqing high-speed railway in 2015 has enabled visitors to travel between the two megacities within 1.5 hours, offering nice weekend getaways for explorers and foodies.

Chengdu: More than pandas and hot pot

With giant pandas, hot pot and laid-back lifestyle, the provincial capital of Sichuan has won many people's hearts.

Saying hello to the giant pandas is on the must-do list for first-comers to the city. The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is among the city's most-visited destinations, as it provides visitors a chance to get close to the rare animals.

Kuanzhai Alley and Jinli Ancient Street are popular with tourists for leisurely strolls and a taste of folk culture as well as local specialties. Listed as UNESCO's City of Gastronomy, Chengdu is the birthplace of numerous dishes and snacks, including Mapo tofu and Dandan noodles.

If you are curious about mysterious ancient civilizations, Jinsha Site Museum takes you to the original ruins site of the ancient Shu state that dates back some 3,000 years. Or you may go visit a local teahouse, have a sip of nice tea and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Chongqing: 'Mountain City,' 'Capital of Fog'

From the monorail line passing through a residential building to mouth-numbing foods and vibrant nightlife, Chongqing is the largest municipality in China, approximately the same size as Austria. It has many titles: "Mountain City" for its distinctive topography, and "Capital of Fog" as it is often shrouded in fog.

Hongya Cave is one of the city's most instagrammable spot. The 11-story structure built above a steep cliff is quite a view. Especially when the night falls, the lit-up buildings transform the site into a sparkling sea of colors.

Chongqing has witnessed rapid development in its transportation infrastructure in the past decade. One of the city's new landmarks is the light rail that crosses through mountain tunnels and over rivers, offering breathtaking views to the passengers.

Hot pot in Chongqing is not just a food, but a lifestyle, for it is thoroughly intertwined with the local culture. Meanwhile, various dishes, such as hot and sour rice noodles and Chongqing noodles, are also worth trying during your stay in the city.

Read more:

Four city clusters not to miss in China's 1-2-3 Travel Circle

Travel guide to China's big four city clusters: Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region

Travel guide to China's four big city clusters: Yangtze River Delta

Travel guide to China's four big city clusters: Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay

Video editor: Zhang Dian

Cover image designer: Feng Yuan