#China #Yangtze River #cultural festival #Zhangjiagang

Yangtze River Cultural Festival 2025 Inaugurated in Zhangjiagang

On October 24, 2025, the Yangtze River Cultural Festival officially opened in Zhangjiagang, Jiangsu Province, a celebration of the profound cultural heritage and vibrant creativity of the region. This significant event is organized in collaboration with various governmental departments, including the Jiangsu Provincial Committee and the People's Government of Suzhou City.

A Celebration of Culture

The festival kicked off with the local theatrical production titled "The Invitation," which tells a captivating story of a museum along the banks of the Yangtze River that receives an invitation to participate in the "Chinese Cultural Relics Exhibition of the Yangtze River." Through the showcase of nine representative artifacts from Zhangjiagang, each with a history spanning thousands of years, the production invites audiences to reflect on the enduring spirit of humanity and civilization.

Among the festival's highlights is an exhibition featuring 159 sets of historical artifacts from across the region. On the opening day, an outdoor event titled "Exploring 100 Scenic Spots along the Yangtze River: Discover the Water Charm of Jiangsu" was held on Shuangshan Island, which also introduced the online cultural tourism project "3D Cloud Tour of Jiangsu Water". Additionally, the new tourism promotion campaign "Hello, Yangtze River" was launched, featuring a digital travel guide covering eight cities along the river.

A Grand Tradition

In its 22nd edition, the Yangtze River Cultural Festival continues to serve as a vital platform for cultural exchange and public engagement. Since its inception, the festival has connected Zhangjiagang with 13 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities along the Yangtze River. It has involved over 200 participating organizations and organized more than 180 events, attracting approximately 500 million participants both live and online.

The event showcases programs centered around five main themes: Heritage of the Yangtze River, Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Yangtze River, Arts of the Yangtze River, Walks along the Yangtze River, and Opening up the Yangtze River. Notably, the promotional campaign for cultural tourism consumption, "Glorious Yangtze: Autumn Journey to Zhangjiagang 2025," emphasizes the river's cultural legacy and its significance in contemporary life.

The festival promises to enhance awareness of the Yangtze River's rich cultural fabric and its ongoing importance to the residents of Jiangsu and beyond. As the festival unfolds, more thrilling events and exhibitions will continue to deepen the connection between tradition and modernity, providing a unique experience for all attendees. Join the celebration and discover the charm of the Yangtze River as it embraces its history while looking towards the future.