The Wanderers of Chengdu

Chengdu, the provincial capital of Sichuan, is one of the five largest cities and the most populous urban development after Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen. It has a history that traces back to 2400 years to when the first emperor of the Shu Kingdom built its capital there. Retaining its original name “Shu” till today, it has long been an important political, commercial and economic hub for Sichuan.

Furthermore, it is the first city in Asia to be awarded the title of "Gourmet Food Capital"  by UNESCO, thus carrying on its reputation of being the “Land of Abundance”. Rich history, strategic location and liberal traditions give it economic advantage. Consequently, since ancient times, Chengdu people have cultivated a hedonic culture that values quality of life. There is a saying that goes “Shu people love entertainment”. Today, Chinese netizens call Chengdu the “gay capital”.

In Chengdu, gay men are nicknamed “piao piao” (“wanderers”). Chengdu East Street, which intersects with the well-known scenic spot Jiuyan Bridge, is nicknamed “Piao Piao Street” (also known as Bar Street) because of its many gay bars. Chunxi Road, Chengdu’s most prosperous commercial area attracts avant-garde young people with its many branded goods stores and high-end art and cultural activities. It is also hallowed by the “piao piao”.

 
Some scholars conducted a survey on college students in Chengdu and found that 70% of them approve of homosexual relationships (Liang Bin, 2012). Compared with a similar survey done nationwide (Hu Zhen, 2010) that yielded a result of about 50%, there is a big disparity.

Another scholar, Wei Wei, tried to summarize the causes. He believes that due to the diversity of Chengdu’s history, its civic culture is very tolerant of diverse ideas.  Vibrant commercial development, natural resources and the catalysis of Taoism further magnify such liberal moral values. The term “piao piao” is indeed a vivid portrayal of the people who linger at and wander around Chengdu's places of entertainment.

 
Prayer Points

 Pray that Christians will respond in love and wisdom to people in the gay community.
 
Pray that the Chinese church will have compassion and minister to the gay community.
 
Pray for the Good News of the love of God to reach people in all walks of life in China.