Weaving Singapore locations into Song Dynasty narratives

A cross-border cultural tourism campaign combining Song Dynasty (960-1279)-inspired performances with storytelling in Singapore was launched in 2026 by the Singapore Tourism Board, Henan Zhongyouxin International Travel Service, and Millennium City Park in Kaifeng, Henan province.

The initiative uses short dramas and immersive performances at Singapore landmarks to present the city-state's natural environment, multicultural heritage and modern urban landscape to Chinese audiences.

Performers from Millennium City Park traveled to Singapore in Song-era costumes, weaving locations such as Gardens by the Bay, Kampong Glam, Chinatown, Haji Lane, and the Peranakan Museum into a series of narratives.

Rather than focusing on individual tourist attractions, the campaign connects different areas of Singapore through a single travel story. Performances in cultural districts highlight the city's multicultural character while scenes at Gardens by the Bay and around Marina Bay Sands focus on its integration of urban development and green spaces.

Toh Ling Hui, area director for Northern China at the Singapore Tourism Board, said Chinese travelers are increasingly seeking experiences that combine tourism with cultural and creative elements.

The campaign reflects the tourism board's efforts to explore new ways of engaging Chinese travelers, particularly younger audiences, she said.

Henan's role in the project is linked to the province's historical association with Song Dynasty culture. Millennium City Park in Kaifeng has developed performances and immersive experiences based on the period's history and aesthetics.

The project provides a new format for cultural tourism cooperation between Henan and Singapore, using live performance and location-based storytelling to connect historical cultural elements with contemporary travel experiences.