Photos here are from two visits to the Chengdu YMCA* building. With me were local university students who readily offered services as guides.
We enter the historically preserved pedestrian lane, Jinhuaguan, just off Chun Xi Road (North). Brass plaques and photos of traditional life are mounted here on the tunnel walls.
Click for larger images.
We were pleased to find the building and historical markers well-presented and beautifully maintained in memory of a Western institution that was widely popular internationally and widely implemented in China.
Note the three-sided iconic symbol (both above and elsewhere here) used by the Y-organization. It symbolizes a commitment to unity/integration of mind, body, and spirit. The larger representation below also carries words from the Christian scriptures (John 17:21) suggesting the means towards social and inter-cultural unity: “… that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee…”.
While there was no indication of regular use of the facilities on my first visit, on the later visit with my guides we found an open door and warm welcome.
We seemed to be finding a renewed commitment to Y activities–well connecting both its history of promotion of its youth mission. As a Canadian, I was especially surprised at the craft chosen for activities today. Dream catchers are very popular among the indigenous peoples of my part of Canada.
Meanwhile, the meeting room displayed images of keen historical interest. The YMCA Mvement was once celebrated in many locations throughout China.
Next to this photo of my guides is a couplet that reads (from left to right): The truth will set you free. We are called to serve, rather than be served.
* Note: YMCA and YWCA refer to the Young Men’s Christian Association and its sister organization for Women. In my hometown of Regina, Canada, we simply talk of the Y or, more specifically, of the YM or YW.
Related…
Views of Jinhuaguan Lane.
First published: 2022/08/27
Latest revision: 2026/01/01