CHONGQING (CQNEWS) -- The 2024 China Sports Culture Expo and China Sports Tourism Expo grandly opened in Suzhou on October 10. Under the theme "New Trends in Sports, A Strong Nation Towards the Future," the expo spans approximately 50,000 square meters and features various exhibitions, supporting activities, and on-site promotions.

Chongqing occupies booth C09, showcasing the theme "Beautiful Chongqing, Thriving Sports." The entrance is adorned with a striking replica of the parachute tower, a historic landmark completed on April 4, 1942, designed by Yang Tingbao, a pioneer in modern Chinese architecture. At the time, it was the first parachute tower in both China and Asia.

Today, the parachute tower has regained its original splendor, surrounded by a vibrant square, with the Chongqing Sports Museum currently under construction right next door.

This year's expo also features a debut of Chongqing's unique anti-doping series of cultural and creative products.

Earlier this year, hundreds of remarkable artworks emerged from the Chongqing Youth Sports Science and Technology Painting Competition. Rich in emotion and artistry, these pieces were selected by the Chongqing Municipal Anti-Doping Center to produce a range of items, including handbags, pillows, notebooks, water bottles, phone cases, and badges. Each item encapsulates the message “Winning the Gold Medal with Morality and Cleanliness,” promoting the spirit of Chinese sports.

During the opening ceremony, six projects from Chongqing received accolades. Notably, the Tongliang Dragon Dance was recognized as the 2024 Excellent Folk and Custom Project of Chinese Sports Culture. Additionally, Fairy Mountain National Forest Park and Chongqing Jihua Park were celebrated as Excellent Scenic Spots in China Sports Tourism, while "Experience Chongqing in Nan'an" earned the title of Excellent Route in China Sports Tourism. The China International Mountain Outdoor Sports Open (Chongqing · Wulong) was awarded as an Excellent Event in China Sports Tourism, and Nanchuan District was honored as a premier Sports Tourism Destination.

The relief sculpture of Kui Gate (the mouth of the Three Gorges), located on the right side of the Chongqing exhibition hall, beautifully illustrates the region's breathtaking natural landscapes. This year has seen several projects initiated under the “Travel with Sports Events” initiative, including the National Beach Volleyball Tour (Chongqing Yunyang Station), the 2nd Belt and Road Track and Field Invitational Tournament, the National Track and Field Grand Prix (Station 5), and the 2024 Wanzhou Round-the-Lake Marathon.

Additionally, the interactive experience of the "Bamboo Bell Ball" at the Chongqing Exhibition Hall garnered widespread enthusiasm. Originating from the harvesting traditions of the Tujia people, this engaging sport employs just two bamboo baskets and a bamboo-woven ball to showcase the charm of sports culture. Shizhu Tujia Autonomous County continues to celebrate and preserve this traditional folk sport, fostering a growing appreciation among the public. (Translated by Yuki, Fathom Language Limited)