Kunshan's culture and tourism attract intl visitors

Kunshan city in East China’s Jiangsu province is taking advantage of its rich cultural heritage and tourism potential to build future consumption, industrial and economic advantages. This approach also significantly contributes to the nation's opening-up measures, and acts as a platform for promoting China's history, culture and influence.

On April 7, nine expats from various parts of the world visited Kunshan, a county-level city under Suzhou's administration, to witness its progress and learn about its history.

The tour commenced with a visit to the former residence of Gu Yanwu (1613-1682) in Qiandeng Ancient Town.

Gu was a prominent philosopher and scholar who devoted his life to traveling and reading endless volumes of books, inspiring generations of scholars. The residence reflects his thirst for knowledge, and features scrolls of calligraphy, scenes depicting his life and his famous phrases, especially his most renowned phrase, "The rise and fall of a nation rests with the individual responsibility of its people."

The group then walked the short distance to Qiandeng Ancient Town’s Kunqu opera house to watch a performance. The expats were amazed by the performance of the classic Peony Pavilion. Kunqu opera has a unique charm and is one of the oldest traditional Chinese art forms, with a history dating back 600 years.

After two breath-taking Kunqu performances, Mugeeb Mohamed Al-Samhi, an international student from Yemen, said: “It was fun to walk down the ancient town and then end with the Kunqu Opera. I have been waiting for a chance to see Chinese opera, because it is an important part of China’s cultural heritage.”

Datang Ecological Park was the next location for the expats, who later ventured through the golden-yellow oilseeds flowers and enjoyed the tranquil atmosphere. As a great place to display energy-efficient agriculture projects, promote science and offer catering and entertainment, this park is set to boost Kunshan’s agricultural ecotourism.

The Qiandeng Oilseeds Flower Festival was held on April 7 at the park to attract more visitors who are seeking rural tourism experiences, and those who want to learn about local agriculture.