Chongqing - On April 3, 2026, a group of Hong Kong students visited the Gele Mountain Revolutionary Memorial in Chongqing, tracing the footsteps of revolutionary heroes and deepening their understanding of the Hongyan spirit – a legacy of unwavering faith and sacrifice during China's revolutionary era.

The visit was part of the "GROWS Together" Sichuan-Chongqing exchange program, a seven-day tour focused on innovation, technology, history, and culture. The program also took students to the Changan Global R&D Center, Hongyancun Metro Station, and Ciqikou Ancient Town, offering immersive education on China's national conditions, hands-on tech experiences, and cross-cultural exchanges.

"We are very lucky to bring our students here during the Easter holidays – especially to the Gele Mountain Revolutionary Memorial," said Judith Yu, Chairman of Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in China. "Everyone can actually feel that as Chinese, we are very proud of what our country has provided. People in Hong Kong are very lucky, but all of this comes from the sacrifices of the soldiers. Remembering them and showing them respect is a great privilege for us."

Students were visibly moved after walking through the exhibition. "I saw many people who sacrificed for their faith when they were still very young. It’s heartbreaking," Zhang Wenting said. "They were so brave. We must learn from their perseverance and cherish what we have today. They gave the people on this land a safe and peaceful life."

The student Huang Zuming also noted the solemn atmosphere at the memorial. "I saw many people – under the hot sun – still putting flowers for the martyrs. That immediately reminded me of a saying: 'It is better to walk a thousand miles than to read a thousand books.' Coming here really broadens your horizons. I'm sure you will leave with different thoughts."

Judith emphasized the importance of giving Hong Kong students opportunities to visit mainland cities. "Through cultural exchange and shared experiences, and hopefully through the friendships they build, they will have more chances to learn from each other in the future."

The week-long program is designed to help young people expand their horizons through hands-on engagement and deepen their understanding and affection for the motherland through direct interaction.

(Dong Baoxu and Liu Yiting, as interns, also contributed to this article.)