In Chongqing, the sight of the “Bangbang Army” (棒棒军) is as common as the city’s famous hotpot restaurants. These laborers, moving through the steep, hilly streets of this mountainous city, have become an iconic part of Chongqing’s urban landscape. The “Bangbang Army” represents a unique and culturally significant phenomenon not found in any other city in the world.
The term “Bangbang Army” refers to Chongqing’s porters, who are often seen carrying goods up and down the city’s challenging terrain. The name comes from the simple tools they use – a bamboo pole (棒棒) and two ropes to secure and balance the loads they carry. Chongqing, located at the intersection of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers and built into the mountains, is famous for its steep, narrow streets. These features, known locally as “climbing slopes and stairs” (爬坡上坎), make it difficult for cars to access certain areas. For ordinary people, moving large items through these steep, winding streets would be extremely difficult, and this is where the Bangbang Army comes in.
The Bangbang Army rose to prominence in the 1990s, which is often referred to as their “golden era.” At the peak of their activity, the Bangbang Army numbered around 400,000 members. However, with the rapid development of logistics, delivery services, and an expanding urban transit system, the need for manual porters has significantly declined. As a result, the number of Bangbang laborers has dropped dramatically in recent years.
Despite these changes, the Bangbang Army embodies the resilient and optimistic spirit of Chongqing. Known for their hard work, endurance, and perseverance, these laborers have become a symbol of the city’s unique character. Some describe the Bangbang Army as a group of humble, honest farmers who moved to the city in search of a better life. Armed with nothing more than a bamboo pole and their physical strength, they managed to provide for their families. Although their work is physically demanding and their status modest, they exemplify a strong and proud attitude toward life, refusing to succumb to poverty.