#China #Hangzhou #UNESCO #Cultural Heritage #Liangzhu Forum

The Third Liangzhu Forum: A Global Gathering for Cultural Heritage

On October 18, 2025, the vibrant city of Hangzhou in Zhejiang Province hosted the Third Liangzhu Forum, a key event emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage and its role in human civilization. Jointly organized by China's Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the National Cultural Heritage Administration, and the Zhejiang Provincial People's Government, this year’s forum marked significant anniversaries in the global cultural heritage landscape. It celebrated both the 40th anniversary of China's joining the Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage and the 20th anniversary of UNESCO's Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions.

The theme of the forum, “Revitalization of Civilization Cultural Heritage and Human Culture Diversity,” resonated deeply with attendees, drawing over 300 participants from more than 60 countries and regions. The roster included high-ranking officials from cultural heritage institutions, museum directors, leading archaeologists, and historians, all eager to engage in deep discussions about the role of cultural heritage in today’s society.

Key Highlights and Discussions

Discussions at the forum revolved around significant topics that highlight the timeless wisdom embedded in ancient civilizations. Notable sessions included:

• - Cultural Roots and Timeless Wisdom: This session explored how ancient cultural values can inform contemporary society and governance. Experts shared insights on the enduring nature of cultural identity and its implications for social cohesion.
• - Innovation in Practice: This discussion focused on urban archaeology, conservation of heritage sites, and the need for coordinated urban-rural development. Experts emphasized innovative practices that blend modern urban living with the preservation of our rich historical landscapes.
• - Expanding Museum Functions: Museums are no longer just places for artifacts; they are becoming dynamic spaces for education and community engagement. Participants delved into how museums could further utilize cultural relics to foster understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures.
• - Future Vision for Cultural Heritage: Engaging in forward-thinking, attendees speculated on new models for human advancement that could emerge from a robust appreciation and integration of world cultural heritage.

The collaborative spirit of the forum underscored a collective commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage while promoting intercultural dialogue. Attendees left with a renewed understanding of how global heritage can forge stronger connections between individuals and communities across the world.

Cultural Events: A Celebration of Heritage

Alongside the forum discussions, various cultural events took place to celebrate the rich heritage of the Liangzhu culture. The Liangzhu Cultural and Creative Bazaar provided a platform for local artisans and cultural creators to showcase their crafts, representing the intersection of traditional techniques and contemporary design.

Another highlight was the “Light of Liangzhu” symphony concert, featuring collaborative performances by orchestras from China and the United States. This event illustrated how music transcends boundaries, echoing the theme of cultural diversity through a harmonious blend of different musical traditions.

Through these cultural initiatives, the Liangzhu Forum has not only been an academic gathering but also a vibrant celebration of cultural heritage that fosters creative exchanges and strengthens bonds between nations.

As the forum concluded, participants left Hangzhou with a greater appreciation for the invaluable insights gained during the discussions, as well as the rich cultural experiences shared. The event acted as a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to preserve our cultural landscapes for future generations, ensuring that our history continues to inform our future. Together, the voices from around the world reaffirmed a vision that resonated well beyond the walls of the forum, advocating for a connected and culturally-rich global community.