As the 15th National Games approach, this twin-city collaboration is fostering stronger ties in sports, culture, and business. Looking ahead, Guangzhou and Chongqing will continue to use the Games as a platform to deepen cooperation and write a new chapter of intercity exchange and shared development in the new era.
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Bridging Mountains and Rivers: Chongqing and Guangzhou Celebrate Sport and Culture Ahead of the 15th National Games
Chongqing—On May 15, the energy of the 15th National Games swept into Chongqing, as the “15th Games, 15 Cities” promotional event kicked off at the mountain city. The event brought together the dynamic spirit of the Games and the vibrant culture of Chongqing, offering citizens an immersive “sports + culture” experience and marking a powerful prelude to the Games set for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
A celebration of twin cities
The event began with a unique cultural exchange—a performance duel between Guangdong’s Cantonese Opera and Chongqing’s Sichuan Opera. Artists from both cities delivered captivating performances, showcasing the rich diversity of Chinese intangible cultural heritage. The event continued with high-energy street dance, mesmerizing puppet artistry by the Guangdong Puppet Art Theatre, and the stirring promotional song performed by well-known musicians.
A wide array of performances, from dance to music and spoken word, highlighted Guangzhou and Chongqing's deep cultural roots and distinct urban flavors.
The performance by the Guangdong Puppet Art Theatre wowed the audience. (Photo/Wang Yan, Guangzhou Daily)
Inviting all to the Greater Bay Area
Youth volunteers from the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao region and Chongqing took the stage, extending a heartfelt invitation to the nation: join the 15th National Games in Guangzhou and savor the city’s culinary treasures. "Sports is more than competition—it's a bridge connecting cities and inspiring people," said Cai Weiteng, a Chongqing University student from Guangzhou. "This dual-city event, fusing sports, cuisine, and culture, not only broadens the influence of the Games but also ignites public enthusiasm to move from spectators to active participants."
For volunteers like Gong Yongqi from Hong Kong and He Jianghan from Chongqing, the showcase was more than a promotional activity—it was a genuine exchange of spirit, teamwork, and youthful energy, bridging regional and cultural divides.
Guangzhou and Chongqing, each famous for its cuisine—one fiery, one fresh—represented a culinary and cultural dialogue. "The Games are not just about competition but also about bringing people together to celebrate food, culture, and community," said Zhao Liping, General Manager of the Guangzhou Restaurant Group.
Strengthening bonds, building the future
The event featured a symbolic gift exchange between officials from both cities' relevant departments, reinforcing the growing friendship and collaboration between Guangzhou and Chongqing.
Yu Jibo, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of Chongqing Broadcasting Group, noted, "The 15th National Games is a major sporting event co-hosted by Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao. Chongqing and Guangzhou—two cities with rich histories, strong industrial bases, and vibrant cultures—are seizing this opportunity to deepen exchanges and cooperation."
Zhu Xiaoyi, Deputy Secretary-General of the People's Government of Guangzhou Municipality, added, "Though separated by mountains and rivers, Guangzhou and Chongqing are united in spirit and ambition. The Games provide a platform for both cities to share their stories, celebrate heritage, and strengthen connections across China."
Group photo of guests and performers. (Photo/Chen Chang)
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