Chongqing - In Chongqing’s historic Ciqikou ancient town, the traditional game of hide-and-seek has been reimagined as a large-scale “cat-and-mouse” showdown. Over 130 participants—divided into “cats” and “mice” by colored wristbands—raced through alleys and courtyards, dodging, chasing, and laughing in a lively test of speed and strategy.

Far from being just a game, the event has become a form of "sweaty socializing", where young people break a sweat while making new friends. Some “mice” even earned special cards allowing them to fight back against "cats," while the coveted title of "Cat King" went to the player with the most captures.

The highly energetic activity has quickly gained popularity in Chongqing. It blends fun, fitness, and community spirit. As one participant joked, "(There's) no way you can escape!"—a perfect motto for the game’s thrill and excitement.

(Huang Zhuoyue, as an intern, also contributed to this report.)