Chongqing – During the recent National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday period, Yuzhong District, a key window for Chongqing's international image, established four international volunteer service stations at major tourist spots. Over 60 international volunteers participated, assisting an estimated 200,000 visitors throughout the festivities.

During the recent National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday period, over 60 volunteers in Yuzhong District became a bridge for cultural exchange, serving nearly 200,000 tourists. (Photo: Yuzhong District)

The initiative proved invaluable for many foreign tourists. One German visitor, looking slightly lost in the Jiefangbei area, was promptly approached by Jenny, a volunteer from Thailand. Speaking in English, she offered help. Learning he wanted to reach Daijia Alley, Jenny not only gave him clear directions but also provided detailed travel routes and a hand-drawn map highlighting the alley and other popular nearby attractions.

Their conversation continued, with the German tourist inquiring about local food and ancient architecture. Based on his preferences, Jenny recommended Chongqing hotpot and noodles. To explore an old town, she suggested the famous Ciqikou Ancient Town. "Throughout our interaction, he praised our enthusiastic and detailed service,  thanking us," Jenny recalled. "He said our friendliness and professionalism made his impression of Chongqing exceptionally positive."

In another instance, a Russian tourist who visits China annually sang and danced while taking a selfie in front of the Guotai Art Center. Volunteers noticed her and offered her an English hand-drawn tourist map of Yuzhong. The tourist burst into happy laughter, exclaiming, "Chongqing is very good!"

The "Shanguo" volunteer service station in the Shibati historic area also became a heartwarming highlight. The station was staffed daily by community workers and two international volunteers, who ensured visitors felt welcome and supported.

The volunteers' dedication was evident in their actions. They comforted a child with a scraped finger by carefully applying a Band-Aid. They promptly prepared glucose water for a visitor feeling unwell and offered traditional medicine for relief. Providing detailed directions was part of their daily routine.

"The inclusion of international volunteers not only brings the convenience of multiple languages but also serves as a friendly bridge for cultural exchange," said a relevant official from Nanjimen Street. "Their genuine smiles and professional actions vividly illustrate the spirit of volunteerism, allowing tourists from around the world to feel the city's warmth and hospitality here in the Shibati scenic area."

At the popular Liziba Station Viewing Platform, the international volunteer station offered services in four languages: Chinese, English, Vietnamese, and Thai. Volunteers from Vietnam and Thailand, who had enthusiastically joined the volunteer team, used their language skills to provide seamless assistance to the global influx of visitors.

"The already amazing architectural landscape has attracted even more tourist attention thanks to the warmth and openness conveyed by the volunteers," said an official from Shangqingsi Street.