#China #Chongqing #Yuzhong District #Bashi Culture

Embracing ‘Bashi’ – The Life Philosophy of Chongqing's Yuzhong District

Chongqing, a vibrant city in southwestern China, has a hidden gem within it - the Yuzhong District. Recently, this remarkable area extended an invitation to an internationally renowned blogger, ushering in an era of exploration and understanding of its 'bashi' culture. This term, steeped in Chinese philosophy, embodies comfort, tranquility, and a harmonious existence with the surroundings. The blogger's immersive journey spanned the city's dynamic landscape, where rich history meets modernity.

The Heart of Chongqing

Yuzhong District, often referred to as the 'mother town' of Chongqing, has a legacy that stems back over 800 years. Located where the Jialing River converges with the Yangtze, Yuzhong is influenced by both its geographical setting and historical significance. The blogger traversed iconic sights, starting at Chaotianmen Wharf, the gateway to understanding the region's cultural depth.

A Taste of Local Life

One of the first stops was the Xinglin Bookstore, affectionately known as the 'Chongqing Literary Salon.' Not only did it offer volumes of literature dedicated to the city, but it also served a unique local delicacy - covered-bowl tea. The store manager, He Xia, elaborated on how the tea ritual encapsulates the essence of 'bashi.' "One cup in the morning to energize, and another in the afternoon to unwind – that’s our way of embracing life here," he shared, as he poured a warm cup for the blogger.

Shibati Street: A Journey through Time

Following the serene experience at the bookstore, the blogger explored Shibati, or ‘18 Steps,’ a street steeped in history and nostalgia for many locals. This street, once pulsating with life, served as a crucial link between the city's upper and lower halves. Today, revitalization efforts have imbued it with renewed spirit while preserving its historical essence. Xu Qiang, a passionate hotpot restaurateur, detailed how generations of his family have made Shibati their home. "Hotpot is not merely a meal. It is our way of life – we share it in sweltering summer and cold winter, always finding comfort in its warmth," he explained while showcasing the signature nine-grid hotpot.

Cultural Heritage: The Art of Face-Changing and Shu Embroidery

The next leg of the tour plunged into the world of Sichuan Opera, a cultural cornerstone of the region. The blogger witnessed the mesmerizing art of face-changing, brilliantly performed by Cai Wencan, who emphasized the artistry and the decades of dedication such performances require. "It takes 10 years to master what appears effortless on stage," he noted with a smile, engaging the blogger in the art form's intricacies.

The exploration didn't stop at performative arts; it extended to the delicate craft of Shu embroidery, one of China's most esteemed needle arts, with over three millennia of history. Wang Hui, a master embroiderer, passionately shared stories of her art, recounting how even NBA star Stephen Curry managed to thread a needle during a recent visit. The blogger, inspired, took up the challenge himself, basking in the joy of mastering something so delicate and intricate.

Understanding 'Bashi'

The journey throughout Yuzhong was about more than just sightseeing; it was a profound cultural immersion. A local official remarked that 'bashi' embodies the philosophical understanding developed over centuries by the city's inhabitants, finding balance and ease in their lives amidst natural beauty and historical challenges.

Chongqing is an intriguing blend of the ancient and the youthful, offering depth beneath its modern façades. The essence of 'bashi' manifests in daily life, balancing simplicity with richness – each sip of tea, every shared meal, and every moment spent in the city's embrace enriches this philosophy.

As the blogger reflected on their incredible adventures, they found Yuzhong District to be a living canvas painted with stories, traditions, and enduring values. The invitation extended from this historic district was a call for more visitors globally to uncover its treasures: from experiencing the warmth of Shibati to savoring the infamous nine-grid hotpot, the vibrant culture of Chongqing’s Yuzhong District awaits to be sampled, cherished, and celebrated.