Cigarette gate attracts criticism

A new gate in Zhouzhi county, Northeast China's Shaanxi province, valued at almost one million yuan ($160,800), has sparked discussion among Internet users due to is cigarette shape.

The new north gate of Zhouzhi county consists of eight orange pillars. The eight pillars are separated into two sides of along the road and each has a big flower pot on the top which makes them like litten cigarettes. Under the pillars is a 3-4 meter high square base. Between the pillars and the base is a hollowed-out grid platform.

The pillars stand at the main entrance of the county, functioning as a symbol of openness, forward thinking and enthusiasm. The number eight came from a traditional Chinese saying about welcoming guests from all over the world, according to the county's Party Committee Propaganda Department.

The north gate project is a part of an urban construction project which was invested by Xi'an Wanlian investment Co Ltd in 2011.

Local officials hope to attract more investments into Zhouzhi county to improve its environment.