Hong Kong people's first exploration of Bayu culture and its shocking experience

As a Hong Konger, this was my first time visiting the Huguang Guild Hall in Chongqing and I was completely amazed by this ancient building complex hidden among modern skyscrapers! Take Light Rail Line 1 from Yuzhong District to Xiaoshizi Station, and walk about 10 minutes to arrive. The transportation is more convenient than you think. As soon as I saw the bright yellow fire walls and layered eaves, I immediately had the illusion of traveling through time and space - after being so used to seeing high-rise buildings in Hong Kong, this well-preserved Qing Dynasty building is really refreshing.

As soon as you step into Huifan, you will see the Yuwang Palace in front of you. The design is very exquisite, so be sure to reserve enough time to explore and savor it.

What shocked me most was the "Huguang Filling Sichuan" immigration exhibition in the guild hall. It turns out that Chongqing, like Hong Kong, is a city where immigrant cultures blend together! Looking at those old account books and shop signs, I can’t help but think of the Man Mo Temple in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong. I particularly like the exquisite stone carvings in the Guangdong Public Office. The tour guide said that these were donated by Guangdong businessmen in the past. As a native Cantonese speaker, I immediately felt a sense of belonging.

The observation deck on the top floor of the guild hall overlooks the Yangtze River and the Dongshuimen Bridge. The blend of ancient and modern scenery is unforgettable.

There are many stairs in the hall, so it is recommended to wear comfortable flat shoes. Hongya Cave is nearby and can be visited on the same day.

🫛What is "relieving oneself"?
It is said that in the past, officials used long ropes to tie everyone's hands together and escort them to prevent them from escaping. During long journeys, people would ask to have the ropes untied when they needed to relieve themselves. Over time, this was simply called "relieving oneself" - a nickname for going to the toilet that has been passed down to this day. These three short sentences tell the vicissitudes of the word "jie shou": a helpless cry under the bondage of ropes, which eventually evolved into an everyday language, retaining the historical imprint and showing the wonders of language evolution.


📍Address: No. 1, Bajiaoyuan, Changjiang Binjiang Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
💰Tickets are worth 30 RMB, remember to rent an audio guide (Cantonese available)

#Mainland Travel #Huguang Guild Hall #Chongqing Good Places #Chongqing Travel

Post by 莎拉酱 | Apr 18, 2025