Chongqing Municipality in southwest China is welcoming a growing number of foreign travelers, as more visitors swap checklist-style tourism for a mix of cultural activities and authentic local experiences.

Thanks to the visa-free entry policies, Chongqing has witnessed an increasing number of foreign tourists visiting the city. According to the official data, some 210,000 foreign tourists entered China via Chongqing under visa-free entry policies in the first half of the year, marking an increase of 83.6 percent year on year.

Rather than focusing solely on traditional landmarks, an increasing number of international travelers are seeking diverse cultural experiences for a deeper understanding of the city.

Many have been drawn to Sichuan Opera, where they are particularly impressed by the dazzling face-changing technique. Some have even put on costumes to try the performance themselves.

"It was amazing. I've only seen pictures; I've never seen any video or anything. And just how unique it is to me -- it's very new, and it was like such a spectacle. It was really a great show," said a visitor from Norway.

Foreign travelers are also showing strong interest in local lifestyles. Many choose to visit the Shibati (Eighteen Stairs) traditional district, where they can immerse themselves in traditional culture and sample local delicacies.