Call for entries: 'Introducing Beijing through Reading' short video contest

Literature is a bridge that spans mountains and oceans. Reading lets the world see the true face of Beijing. When eyes from different lands meet Beijing's literary works, the everyday warmth and spirit, the stories and deep feelings between the lines turn into a shared emotion, allowing the city's cultural heritage to live on through cross-cultural exchange.

We invite literature lovers from around the world to explore the unique charm of Beijing's literature, to interpret the Beijing found in its pages from your own perspective, and to help more people hear the global echo of Beijing's literary voice.

1. Who can enter

Overseas enthusiasts of Chinese literature

International students studying in China

2. Submission period

From the date of this announcement until 24:00 (Beijing Time), July 15, 2026 (the time of successful email dispatch shall prevail).

3. Theme

Introducing Beijing through reading

Entries should provide an in‑depth interpretation of Beijing‑related literary works. From your personal perspective and insights, you should explore the city's cultural lineage, humanistic spirit, and contemporary character as reflected in the works, and showcase the diverse charm of Beijing literature and its value in cross‑cultural communication.

4. Content guidelines

(1) Scope of works

Interpretations must focus on "Beijing literature". For the purpose of this contest, "Beijing literature" refers to literary works created by authors who have lived, studied, worked, or stayed in Beijing; or works set in Beijing that capture the city's historical memory, urban transformation, local customs, contemporary spirit, or modern ethos. Genres are not restricted and include but are not limited to novels, essays, poetry, and reportage.

Participants may select one or more works that fit the above description and offer an in‑depth interpretation, concentrating on their core themes, artistic features, and cultural value. Personal and cross‑cultural perspectives are encouraged to reveal the multifaceted charm of Beijing literature.

(2) Production requirements

1. Relevance to the theme – Your interpretation must be faithful to the work's background, ideas, and artistic characteristics. You may expand on Beijing's urban culture, regional spirit, and contemporary character, but your viewpoint should be clear, logically sound, and heartfelt.

2. Originality – All content must be original, free from plagiarism, misappropriation, or distortion. It must not infringe upon others' intellectual property, copyright, or right of publicity. The entry must not have been published on any platform or submitted to any similar contest.

3. Creativity – Creative expression is encouraged. You may adopt interview‑style, monologue, dramatized re‑enactment, or document‑based formats, and enhance the video with live‑action footage, archival clips, animations, or special effects. Avoid clichéd or templated production.

5. Video specifications

1. Format – Chinese or English narration. Horizontally shot, clear picture, lossless audio, aesthetically composed, smooth pacing, and compliant with the broadcast standards of mainstream Chinese integrated media platforms.

2. Length – Each video shall be no longer than 5 minutes, with concise, focused content and no unnecessary padding.

3. Technical parameters – MP4 format, resolution no lower than 1080p, frame rate no lower than 24 fps, individual file size no larger than 2 GB.

4. Accompanying document – A brief description of 300 words or less (in Chinese or English) must be submitted together with the video, including but not limited to the creator's personal information, contact details, and a summary of the creative concept.

6. How to submit

Send the video and the accompanying document to the designated email address: bjgjwxz@163.com.

The email subject line must follow this format:

"2026 Read & Recommend Beijing + Title of Work + Creator's Name + Phone Number."

Once submitted, materials will not be returned. Please keep a copy for yourself. Incomplete or non‑compliant submissions may be disqualified at the organizer's discretion.

7. Incentives

Each selected creator will receive one ticket to a performance at the Lao She Theater. Their work will be featured in the online promotional campaign of "2026 Beijing International Literary Week – 24‑Hour Highlights" and on media platforms authorized by the Beijing Federation of Literary and Art Circles.

8. Declaration

1. Entries that do not strictly adhere to the contest theme and content requirements will be considered invalid.

2. Entries must be original and previously unpublished. Any plagiarism, infringement, or duplicate submission will result in immediate disqualification, and the entrant shall bear all legal liability arising therefrom.

3. The organizer reserves the right of final interpretation of this contest. By entering, all participants are deemed to have read and agreed to all the terms and conditions stated herein.

4. This contest charges no entry fee. Any costs incurred during submission (postage, communication, production, etc.) shall be borne by the participant.

5. In the event of disputes over portrait rights, copyright, or other rights, the participant shall resolve the matter independently and bear full responsibility; the organizer assumes no liability.

9. Contact information

Tel: +86 10 6585 6781 (Weekdays 09:00–17:00 Beijing Time)

Email: bjgjwxz@163.com