Los Angeles - On October 17, the "Perceiving Chongqing 2024 China-U.S. Cultural Exchanges Series Activities" was unveiled at the Los Angeles Lantern Art Expo held at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California. As the only direct-administered municipality in China's western region, Chongqing took center stage, presenting its rich cultural heritage and history to over 2,000 guests.

On October 17, the "Perceiving Chongqing 2024 China-U.S. Cultural Exchanges Series Activities" was unveiled at the Los Angeles Lantern Art Expo held at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California. (Photo/The event organizer)

With a population of approximately 32 million, Chongqing is renowned for its unique blend of ethnic diversity, featuring significant communities such as the Tujia and Miao people. The city is often referred to as the "Mountainous City," "River City," "Bridge Capital," "City That Never Sleeps," "Hot Pot Capital," and "Hot Spring Capital," encapsulating its vibrant urban identity.

Chongqing is also home to remarkable tourist attractions, including the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Dazu Rock Carvings, and the stunning Wulong Karst landscape. Recognized as a "Creative City of Design" by UNESCO and one of the "Top Ten Fastest Growing Tourist Cities" globally, Chongqing has firmly established itself as a prominent destination for domestic and international travelers.

Chongqing's presentation emerged as a highlight of the event at the Lantern Art Expo, which runs for a month and is expected to draw 250,000 visitors. The expo featured a "Chongqing Photo Exhibition," a film showcase titled "Chongqing on Screen," and various cultural performances that vividly illustrated the city's unique landscape and cultural heritage. Attendees experienced the beauty of Chongqing, known as "the City of Mountains and Water," through captivating displays and performances that brought the city's vibrant history to life.

A promotional video about Chongqing was shown on large screens during the lighting ceremony, setting the tone for the festivities. The audience was treated to stunning performances, including a Miao costume fashion show featuring the traditional attire of the Miao people and the dynamic "Earth Song." These performances received enthusiastic applause, with many American attendees joining in the rhythm and dancing along. The performers, clad in colorful traditional costumes, celebrated Chongqing's diverse ethnic traditions and showcased the rich tapestry of minority cultures.

On October 17, the audience was treated to stunning performances, including a Miao costume fashion show featuring the traditional attire of the Miao people and the dynamic "Earth Song." (Photo/The event organizer)

The event reached a climax when young students from East Los Angeles College recited classic Chinese poetry, including the iconic lines "How long will the full moon appear? Wine cup in hand, I ask the sky," which resonated deeply with the themes of the Mid-Autumn Festival. 

Young students from East Los Angeles College recited classic Chinese poetry. (Photo/The event organizer)

Reciter Alessandra noted that reading these poems in English deepened her understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture, inspiring her to visit Chongqing. Another reciter, Earnesto, emphasized the importance of Mid-Autumn cultural experiences in building bridges of understanding through cultural exchange. 

The event featured a Chinese cultural experience zone, where visitors engaged in activities such as guessing lantern riddles and learning Chinese characters, immersing themselves in the essence of Chinese culture. This hands-on interaction fostered a new appreciation for the Mid-Autumn Festival, highlighting themes of reunion and the beauty of "harmony and happiness."

Huang Dongping, President of the American Southern California Chinese Economic and Trade Cultural Association, remarked that the "Perceiving Chongqing" series provides a window for China-U.S. cultural exchanges, enhancing international understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture. He noted that the Los Angeles Lantern Art Expo, with its blend of exhibitions, food, and interactive activities, provides a platform for Chongqing to convey its cultural essence and build friendships between the peoples of China and the U.S.

Huang Dongping, President of the American Southern California Chinese Economic and Trade Cultural Association. (Photo/The event organizer)

"Today, I am very happy to bring my students to participate in the 'Perceiving Chongqing' activities, as it is also a great opportunity for me to revisit the deep affection that the people of Chongqing have shown me. In June of this year, I had the privilege of leading a delegation from the CAPA on a journey to the Chinese mainland for cultural exploration and academic exchange, where we visited the Mountain City of Chongqing," said Liu Rongwen, president of the Chinese American Professionals Association(CAPA), and a tenured professor in Chinese language and culture at East Los Angeles College.

Liu Rongwen is president of the Chinese American Professionals Association(CAPA) and a tenured Chinese language and culture professor at East Los Angeles College. (Photo/The event organizer)

He reflected on his own deep connection with Chongqing, recalling a recent visit to the city where his delegation explored important historical sites like the Anti-Japanese War Site Museum and the Stilwell Museum. He was impressed by Chongqing's rapid urban development and efficient public transport system, and during a visit to the world heritage site of Dazu Rock Carvings, he praised the site's exceptional management and visitor experience.

"We visited the Chongqing Planning Exhibition Hall, learning about the city's strategic role in the Western Development initiative and the China-Europe Railway Express. I will never forget Chongqing's hot pot, and I am determined to bring American students to experience Chongqing's beautiful landscapes and cultural richness in the future," He added.

Numerous dignitaries attended the 2024 Los Angeles Lantern Art Expo lighting ceremony, including Chinese Consul General in Los Angeles Guo Shaochun and U.S. Congresswoman Judy Chu, who both delivered remarks highlighting the event's significance in promoting cultural cooperation. 

Organizer representatives Ye Jingzhi (first right) and Ye Guoan (second from left) pose for a photo with Chinese Consul General in Los Angeles Guo Shaochun (fourth from right) and California Assemblymember Mike Fong (first left). (Photo/The event organizer)

Guo noted the achievements in tourism and cultural collaboration between the two nations, while Chu expressed gratitude to the organizers for bringing vibrant Chinese lanterns to Los Angeles, enhancing local cultural life, and fostering friendship between the two peoples.

The expo features three main themed exhibition areas focusing on ancient Tang Dynasty culture, a prehistoric dinosaur park, and futuristic technology, attracting audiences of all ages. Visitors can also enjoy food stalls, crafts, and photo opportunities in traditional Hanfu attire.

 On October 17, the "Perceiving Chongqing 2024 China-U.S. Cultural Exchanges Series Activities" was unveiled at the Los Angeles Lantern Art Expo held at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California. (Photo/The event organizer)

Ye Jingzhi, an organizing committee representative, stated that the Los Angeles Lantern Art Expo aims to showcase the allure of traditional Chinese culture, adding vibrant colors to the landscape of China-U.S. cultural exchanges. By bringing together diverse cultural exhibits, performances, and interactive activities, the expo not only celebrates the rich heritage of Chongqing but also strengthens the bonds of understanding and friendship between the two nations. This initiative exemplifies the ongoing commitment to fostering cultural dialogue and appreciation, enhancing mutual respect in an increasingly interconnected world.