The Birth of "Internet-Famous Cities": How Douyin Short Videos Construct and Disseminate New Local Cultural Images-A Case Study of Xi’an and Chongqing

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62517/jnme.202610405

Author(s)

Kaki Chisato

Affiliation(s)

University of Macau, Macao, China

Abstract

In the mobile internet era, short videos, characterized by their brevity, visual appeal, and interactivity, have become a core tool for reshaping city images. As a leading domestic platform, Douyin leverages algorithmic recommendations and user-generated content to shift urban promotion from official-led to public participation. Xi'an and Chongqing have emerged as typical "internet-famous cities" in recent years-one relying on historical heritage, the other on unique topography-forging entirely new urban images on Douyin. This paper draws on semiotics, media construction theory, and participatory culture theory, combined with data and case studies, to analyze how Douyin produces urban symbols, constructs narratives, and facilitates dissemination. It compares Xi’an’s “Guochao Chang’an” approach with Chongqing’s “magical realism and hustle-bustle” model, identifies the benefits and problems brought by short videos, and finally offers suggestions for long-term development.

Keywords

Douyin Short Video; Internet-Famous City; Cultural Image; Symbolic Construction; Xi’an; Chongqing

References

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