Chongqing - On October 6, the inaugural event of the "Telling the Story of Chongqing" cultural arts tour for international students was held in Southwest China's Chongqing. Nearly 20 international students from local universities, including Chongqing University, Southwest University, Chongqing Jiaotong University, and Chongqing Normal University, visited the Guotai Art Center in Yuzhong District to explore cultural landmarks and enjoy unique performances, deeply experiencing the allure of Chongqing's culture and tourism.

On the day of the event, international students from countries such as Indonesia, Morocco, Russia, Thailand, Myanmar, and Ethiopia visited the Guotai Art Center in Chongqing's Yuzhong District. (Photo/Chongqing Window of International Culture and Tourism)

On the day of the event, international students from countries such as Indonesia, Morocco, Russia, Thailand, Myanmar, and Ethiopia visited the Guotai Art Center, a key cultural venue in Chongqing. The center's core architectural design is inspired by local houses' traditional Chuan-Dou style wooden frame, skillfully integrating traditional mortise and tenon techniques. Its bold red and black colors reflect Chongqing's resilient, open, and straightforward spirit, earning it a spot among the city's top ten landmark buildings.

Chongqing Guotai Arts Center. (Photo/Chongqing Municipal Commission of Culture and Tourism Development)

At the Guotai Art Center, students delved into the theater's history, learning about its evolution and the innovative cultural arts it showcases. The building's unique design and rich cultural heritage impressed the students, who expressed their excitement and admiration.

An Indonesian student from Chongqing Jiaotong University said, "This is a popular building in Chongqing, and today was my first chance to explore it up close and learn about its history and stories. It was a very interesting experience."

Music is a bridge for cultural exchange during the event, as students collectively enjoyed an exceptional concert. The melodious music intertwined with the vibrant atmosphere, earning praise from the international students for Chongqing's diverse cultural arts scene.

Music served as a bridge for cultural exchange during the event, as students collectively enjoyed an exceptional concert. (Photo/Chongqing Window of International Culture and Tourism)

A Russian student from Chongqing Normal University said, "I really love Chongqing. Today's event was very meaningful, allowing me to engage with its art. I hope to see more different performances at the Guotai Art Center in the future and wish for more people to come to Chongqing to discover this unique city."

A Sri Lankan student from Southwest University shared, "I have been living in Chongqing for eight years now. It's beautiful, and I've visited many famous spots like Hongya Cave and Ciqikou Ancient Town. I also love Chongqing's hotpot and noodles. Today's visit helped me further understand the richness of Chongqing's cultural arts, and I hope to participate in more activities like this."

International students act as friendly ambassadors and are witnesses, beneficiaries, and promoters of China's economic development and outstanding culture. The "Telling the Story of Chongqing" initiative builds a bridge for cooperation and exchange between China and the world. By visiting attractions and cultural venues and enjoying art performances, international students immerse themselves in the profound cultural arts of China and the unique charm of Chongqing's tourism.

Chongqing will continue to host the "Telling the Story of Chongqing" series of events for international students, creating a high-quality platform for cultural tourism exchange and further enhancing the city's international reputation and appeal.