Chongqing - The "5·19 China Tourism Day Carnival" kicked off in grandeur at OneBangkok on Thursday, celebrating China-Thai cultural ties and showcasing China's tourism treasures, with Chongqing taking center stage. Supported by the Chinese Embassy in Thailand and the Chongqing Municipal Commission of Culture and Tourism Development, the event was co-hosted by the China National Tourist Office in Bangkok and the China Culture Entertainment Association, drawing crowds of Thai travelers and dignitaries.
The opening ceremony of the event (Photo/Chongqing Municipal Commission of Cultural and Tourism Development)
The carnival, running until May 18, spotlights China's tourism innovations and smart travel trends. Highlights include discussions on China's latest visa policies, the launch of the third "I Want to Visit China" short video contest, and a China-Thai smart tourism forum attended by industry leaders.
Zhao Xin, head of the China National Tourist Office in Bangkok, highlighted 2025 as the 50th anniversary of China-Thai diplomatic relations, emphasizing Thailand's role as a key partner for China in Southeast Asia. "This carnival embodies the 'Hello! China' initiative, fostering people-to-people connections through vibrant cultural exchanges," he said.
The opening ceremony promotes Chongqing's tourist resources and specialities (Photo/Chongqing Municipal Commission of Cultural and Tourism Development)
Wang Hao, Deputy Inspector of the Chongqing Municipal Commission of Culture and Tourism Development, painted a vivid picture of Chongqing as a "mountain-river metropolis" famed for its 8D magic, hot springs, bridges, and fiery cuisine. "We invite Thai and global travelers to explore Chongqing's unique charm," he added.
Chongqing's opening act dazzled audiences: renowned musician Liu Guangyu, Vice Chairman of the Chongqing Artists Association and former president of the Chongqing Opera House, performed Thai classic Siam Riverside and Chinese folk piece Horse Racing. A Sichuan face-changing act and immersive presentations on Chongqing's Yangtze River cruises, Wulong karsts, and local cuisine, listed in 360 Bowls of Flavors, Chongqing Flavors left attendees enchanted.
Chongqing's pavilion became a hotspot, featuring intangible heritage like Jiangbei bamboo-shell carvings, Wulong Haokou batik, and Pengshui Miao embroidery. Discounts on tours to attractions like the Chongqing 1949 theatre and hotel packages spurred immediate interest among attendees. One Thai visitor, who flew from Chiang Mai specifically for the event, won a luxury hotel voucher in a raffle. "Chongqing's culture and hospitality are irresistible - I'm bringing my family soon!" she exclaimed.
Chongqing has been promoted in Thailand since mid-April (Photo/Chongqing Municipal Commission of Cultural and Tourism Development)
Since mid-April, Chongqing's tourism ads have been continuously showcased on Bangkok's BTS skytrain stations. The delegation will also meet with Thai agencies to discuss tourist exchanges and Lancang-Mekong tourism city cooperation. With its blend of culture, technology, and warmth, the carnival has set the stage for a new wave of China-Thai travel enthusiasm.