Chongqing - The renowned creators of Hi, I'm China have announced their latest endeavor, Hi, I'm Chongqing, the first book in the "Exploring China" regional geography series. This much-anticipated release is scheduled for December 20 and promises to be an innovative exploration of Chongqing's history, geography, and culture.
The front cover image of the new book, Hi, I'm Chongqing (Photo/CITIC Publishing Group)
This project is designed to provide readers with a multifaceted view of Chongqing, a city known for its rugged landscape and technological advancements.
Inside preview of Hi, I'm Chongqing (Photo/CITIC Publishing Group)
Capturing the soul of Chongqing: mountains, rivers, people, and the city
Chongqing, nestled between rivers and surrounded by mountains, embraces diversity and exudes warmth and boldness. It's a crucial junction of the Belt and Road Initiative and the Yangtze River Economic Belt, forming an integral core of the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle, China's "Fourth Pole." The city is a gateway to the West, closely connected to the world through the China-Europe Railway Express and the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor.
The Dafengbao Scenic Area, characterized by its overlapping and undulating mountain ranges, by Chen Ke (Photo/Hi, I'm Chongqing)
The book Hi, I'm Chongqing delves deep into the city's identity, exploring it from four unique perspectives: its imposing mountains, meandering rivers, vibrant populace, and bustling urban life. The book aims to transcend Chongqing's image as an Internet-famous city and reveal its true character, shaped by its geographical and cultural history.
Wujiang River Gallery by Huang Jian (Photo/Hi, I'm Chongqing)
Over 200 photographic works and dozens of detailed scientific maps provide an immersive experience of Chongqing's landscapes and urban scenes. More than just a collection of stunning visuals, the book delves analytically into the city's geographical and cultural depths, encouraging readers to look beyond the obvious and discover the profound significance beneath its surface.
The ancient theater stage inside the Chongqing Huguang Guild Hall by Li Qiong (Photo/Hi, I'm Chongqing)
Endorsed by experts, it is a must-read for enthusiasts
The book has received acclaim from various cultural and academic figures. Qin Dingbo, a senior inspector of the Chongqing Municipal Commission of Culture and Tourism Development, views it as a comprehensive interpretation of the city, suitable for those eager to deeply explore and understand the spirit of Chongqing. Zhang Yongcai, the Editor-in-chief of Chongqing Daily, emphasizes that the book not only showcases Chongqing's natural landscape and historical culture but also delves into its unique architecture and rich folk culture.
Mountain-perched city - Chongqing by Chen Yunyuan (Photo/Hi, I'm Chongqing)
Experts like Zhou Yong, President of Chongqing History Research Association, praised the book for its detailed portrayal of diverse cultures like Ba-Yu and revolutionary culture, highlighting Chongqing's historical depth and cultural diversity. Lan Yong, Director of the Southwest History and Geography Research Center, commends the book for its content selection, innovative presentation, vivid text descriptions, and strong visual impact.
People watching the bridge by Fan Xiaodong (Photo/Hi, I'm Chongqing)
Dai Ling, an advocate for urban imaging and a curator, underscores the significance of historical images featured in the book, asserting they offer a multi-dimensional perspective of the city. Zhang Kunkun, a distinguished photographer and appointed city image chronicler of Chongqing, accentuates from a photographic perspective how the book vividly and thoroughly captures Chongqing's rich historical and cultural tapestry.
Raffles City Chongqing shrouded in clouds and mist by Fan Xiaodong (Photo/Hi, I'm Chongqing)
Today's Chongqing transcends simplistic labels such as an "8D magical city" or an "Internet-famous city." Unique in its character, Chongqing is unparalleled globally. Hi, I'm Chongqing. It is more than just a book; it is an invitation to delve into and appreciate a city that defies easy descriptions. The book offers a journey to the heart of Chongqing, unveiling its intricate beauty and depth far beyond the transient allure of social media fame.