Chongqing - On September 20, the Bashu Culture and Tourism Corridor Promotional Season opened in Rongchang District, Southwest China's Chongqing. This initiative aims to establish a national-level eco-protection zone for Bashu culture while enhancing collaboration within the local cultural tourism industry.

On September 20, the Bashu Culture and Tourism Corridor Promotional Season opened in Rongchang District, Southwest China's Chongqing. (Photo/Deng Yan)

Over the next three months, the event will feature various activities centered around Bashu culture, including tourism, food, intangible cultural heritage, and performances. With two main events and seven sub-activities, the program seeks to celebrate the region's rich heritage and promote the "Chengdu-Chongqing Twin Cities" concept of Western China.

Connecting tourism routes

At the promotion event, members of the Chengdu-Chongqing Ancient Road Cultural Tourism Development Alliance introduced two themed tourism routes along the Chengdu-Chongqing Ancient Road, three popular routes for National Day, and a "Rongchang and Longchang" tourism route after combining historical and cultural resources along the Bashu corridor. These efforts are aimed at strengthening the Bashu cultural tourism brand.

Representatives from the World Capital of Hot Springs and officials from Xianfeng and Xuan'en counties in Hubei Province promoted their tourism offerings. 

Additionally, travel agents and influencers from Sichuan and Chongqing will explore the unique cultural resources of Rongchang and Longchang, using various channels to promote local attractions.

This collaborative approach is designed to develop market-oriented tourism products, encouraging more visitors to experience both regions' rich cultural and historical landscapes.

Showcasing "360 Bowls of Chongqing Flavors"

With a history of over 3,000 years in Bashu culture and 800 years of Chongqing's culinary evolution, the region is home to a wide variety of local dishes. The event introduces the "360 Bowls of Chongqing Flavors" brand, featuring 360 signature dishes highlighting the region's culinary diversity. 

At the Bashu Cultural Tourism Corridor's food culture street, the "360 Bowls" demonstration and experience shops made their debut, along with the opening of the "360 Bowls" food market. 

At the Bashu Cultural Tourism Corridor's food culture street, the "360 Bowls" demonstration and experience shops made their debut, along with the opening of the "360 Bowls" food market. (Photo/The event organizer)

This event invites residents and visitors to Xiabu Town to sample authentic local specialties, including Rongchang marinated goose, delicious Fengdu spicy chicken, and tender hand-steamed beef.

Creating new highlights

This autumn, tourists can explore the Piglet Market in Xiabu Town, Rongchang, where they can shop, enjoy local delicacies, and participate in Hanfu experiences. The market offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in traditional culture while savoring regional flavors. 

In the winter, visitors can witness the grand opening of the new cultural commercial street in Longchang. This street showcases a blend of modern trends and local traditions, creating a vibrant "Guochao" (Chinese-style) atmosphere. Here, guests can indulge in various Sichuan and Chongqing specialties, highlighting the region's rich culinary heritage.

Additionally, visitors can embark on an interactive journey inspired by characters from China's Four Great Classical Novels, bringing historical tales to life as they wander through the scenic streets of Xiabu Town. 

Visitors can embark on an interactive journey inspired by characters from China's Four Great Classical Novels, bringing historical tales to life as they wander through the scenic streets of Xiabu Town. (Photo/The event organizer)

In Longchang, the ancient Nanguan Stone Archway Town offers immersive performances that depict the historic Bashu Ancient Road, allowing guests to experience the region's cultural narrative in a captivating way. 

Rongchang and Longchang invite visitors to bustling markets featuring crafts, delicious food, and creative products, making this a dynamic and enriching experience for all attendees.