The Edison Hotel in New York came alive on November 13 with the vibrant cultural celebration, “Enduring Beauty Across Oceans: A Glimpse into the Poetic Charm of Zhejiang.” Hosted by Zhejiang Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, the event highlighted the province’s 5,000-year-old heritage, showcasing the depth of Chinese civilization and fostering cultural exchanges between China and the United States.
Xu Xiao, Deputy Secretary of the Party Leadership and Deputy Director of Zhejiang Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, along with representatives from the Chinese Tourism Office in New York, joined nearly 100 distinguished guests from New York’s cultural, tourism, and art sectors at the opening ceremony. The event aimed to enhance mutual appreciation between the two nations, reinforcing the growing cultural and economic ties between Zhejiang and the United States.
In her keynote address, Xu Xiao emphasized Zhejiang’s significant relationship with the United States, noting the 68 sister-province partnerships established between the two cultures. She highlighted ongoing collaborations in trade, education, tourism, and technology, reiterating Zhejiang’s commitment to building pragmatic platforms for exchange.
“The 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the United States marks an important milestone,” said Xu. “This event reflects our dedication to fostering mutual understanding, promoting Zhejiang’s cultural richness, and exploring new avenues for cooperation in tourism and culture.”
Chen Li, Consul General of China in New York, echoed these sentiments, inviting American travelers to visit Zhejiang and other regions of China. He underscored China’s initiatives to facilitate tourism, including visa exemptions, visa-free transit, and extensive cooperative projects. “China and the United States share abundant cultural and tourism resources, serving as key source markets for each other. Our collaborative efforts will deepen bilateral relationships, benefitting both our peoples and future generations,” Chen stated.
The event was structured into four thematic chapters—”Blue and Green,” “Elegance,” “Flowing,” and “Harmony”—each highlighting different aspects of Zhejiang’s landscapes, cultural evolution, and modern development. The artistic performances captivated the audience, blending traditional Chinese culture with contemporary interpretations.
The water sleeve dance offered a mesmerizing portrayal of Zhejiang’s traditional artistry. A stunning display of traditional Chinese music combined with modern light effects reflected the majestic beauty of the Qiantang River. A fashion show inspired by the Liangzhu Civilization drew from patterns and jade artifacts of the UNESCO-recognized Liangzhu Cultural Site, eloquently depicting Zhejiang’s historical depth using the universal language of art. Guests were also treated to highly restored replicas of cultural relics from the region, allowing for an intimate exploration of Zhejiang’s historical and artistic legacy. The artifacts served as bridges between cultures, offering American audiences a multidimensional view of Chinese civilization.
The event was not just a celebration but a platform for fostering collaboration in tourism and cultural exchanges. This year, the 14th China-U.S. Tourism Leadership Summit held in China focused on using tourism as a medium for cultural dialogue. Over 20 cooperative projects were signed during the summit, laying a strong foundation for mutual growth.
American guests praised the efforts, expressing optimism about the shared future of Sino-U.S. cultural events. “Strengthening collaboration in culture and tourism is essential for promoting mutual understanding,” said one guest. “Events like these demonstrate the immense potential for cooperation between China and the United States.”
The event highlighted Zhejiang’s appeal as a premier cultural and tourism destination. Known for its poetic landscapes and vibrant heritage, Zhejiang is a microcosm of China’s historical grandeur and modern vibrancy. The promotional segment aimed to position Zhejiang as a must-visit destination, bridging the gap between ancient traditions and contemporary tourism.
With its innovative storytelling and immersive displays, the event left a lasting impression on attendees. The use of modern artistic expressions to narrate Zhejiang’s history resonated deeply, earning widespread praise for its creativity and authenticity.
As the world’s two largest economies, China and the United States share a pivotal bilateral relationship. Tourism and cultural exchanges play a vital role in strengthening this bond. With initiatives like “Enduring Beauty Across Oceans,” Zhejiang Province is setting a benchmark for fostering international relationships through tourism and culture.
The event also underscores the growing importance of tourism as an instrument for economic and cultural diplomacy. By showcasing the unique allure of Zhejiang, the province not only promoted its tourism potential but also highlighted the universal value of cultural understanding.
Key Highlights of the Event
Cultural Showcases: Traditional dances, music, and innovative fashion displays inspired by Liangzhu Civilization.
Tourism Promotion: Highlights of Zhejiang’s natural and cultural landmarks, including the Qiantang River and Liangzhu Cultural Site.
Strengthened Cooperation: Emphasis on Sino-U.S. relations with over 20 signed cooperative projects in 2024.
Heritage Displays: Highly restored replicas of cultural relics, offering a tangible connection to Zhejiang’s history.
The post Zhejiang Province Highlights 5,000 Years of Civilization at Cultural Tourism Event in New York City appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
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