Chongqing—On July 29, the Seminar on Popularizing and Simplifying the CPC's Innovative Theories was held in Chongqing, a city where mountains meet rivers and ideas meet action.

The event was held at the Chongqing Global Lounge, a city landmark located where the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers meet, and a symbol of Chongqing's international image. It brought together experts and scholars from across the country under the theme “Draw Strength from Ideas, Build Confidence in Culture.”

Chongqing’s unique blend of deep-rooted culture and forward-looking development makes it a fitting place to explore how ideas inspire strength and culture builds confidence. As the only centrally administered municipality in western China, it has a resilient spirit, rich traditions, and a growing role as a national hub, reflecting the power of cultural identity and innovation in shaping a dynamic future.

Sun Guoying, editorial board member of Southern Media Group and Southern Daily, noted this was her third visit to the city. "I know Chongqing as heroic, as cultural, as a mountain city, and a city suitable for both living and travel," Sun said. "Its unique geography, rich cultural heritage, beautiful scenery, delicious food, and modern vibrancy make it a city you want to return to, a place worth visiting."

Zhao Hong, executive editor-in-chief of the Henan Branch of Xuexi Qiangguo, visited Chongqing for the first time. She shared that thanks to the improved high-speed rail system, her trip from Zhengzhou to Chongqing took just 4 hours and 6 minutes.

“This afternoon, I first checked in at Liziba Station, then visited People's Liberation Monument, also known as Jiefangbei,” said Zhao. “Since this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, I found it especially meaningful, it's the only urban monument in China dedicated to that war.”

Zhao added that she also tried Chongqing noodles in a small alley, commenting, “Henan is a major province for noodles, but this flavor, unique to the mountain city, truly won me over.”

Zhao emphasized the importance of reaching younger audiences through engaging and relatable content. “We aim to step out of our comfort zones and create works with strong online appeal, especially for young people. I think Chongqing is ahead in this effort and has achieved good communication results,” she said.

In recent years, the city has gained global traction on TikTok, where its stunning views, street food, and city life captivate young audiences. Creative short videos have made it a trending destination, sparking cultural interest and engagement worldwide.

Media representatives and experts will continue their research at Chongqing's Minzhu Village and the Hongyan Revolutionary Memorial Museum following the seminar.

Once an aging neighborhood with rundown buildings, Minzhu Village has been transformed into a vibrant community filled with cafes, shops, and cultural sites. Thanks to a comprehensive urban renewal project, the former industrial residential area has become a popular destination for both residents and visitors.