Discover the Cultural and Technological Evolution of Jiangsu Province in China
Discovering Jiangsu Province: A Blend of Culture and Innovation
Jiangsu Province, often referred to as the "land of fish and rice" and the "land of rivers and lakes," is located along the eastern coastline of China, where the Yangtze River flows into the East China Sea. This region has been shaped by its fertile soil, extensive water networks, and a history of prosperous agriculture, making it one of China's most significant provinces. In 2024, Jiangsu's GDP reached a staggering 13.7 trillion yuan (around 1.88 trillion USD), ranking second among all provincial regions in China, showcasing its rapid development alongside its storied past.
The recent "New Dynamic Jiangsu 2025 Global Media Tour" provided an opportunity for journalists from around the world to delve into the province's evolution. Over five days, they traveled across this industrious region, witnessing firsthand its blend of traditional values and modern advancements. The journey began in Nanjing, the provincial capital, and extended to cities such as Wuxi, Yancheng, and Lianyungang, where participants engaged with local communities and experienced the dynamic growth of Jiangsu.
Embracing Smart Technologies
As one of the leading manufacturing provinces in China, Jiangsu is at the forefront of industrial upgrades powered by smart technologies. In Nanjing, the highlight was the Software Valley, home to 328 artificial intelligence-related enterprises and employing around 50,000 AI professionals. One notable company, TetraBOT, presented its innovative robots that are designed for various applications, including hazardous environments and emergency response. These robots are already making an impact in major sectors such as oil, mining, and chemicals. Liu Danfu, the assistant to the chairman of TetraBOT, highlighted the significant adoption of their technology across various industries.
The journalists also visited the Turing AI Institute, a collaboration with Tsinghua University. This institute is a beacon of AI research, focused on areas such as computer vision and natural language processing, fostering a community of over 80 AI-driven businesses that extend across healthcare, finance, and urban management.
In Wuxi, the journalists witnessed the evolution of Miracle Automation, which transitioned from a local workshop to a publicly listed company renowned for its humanoid robots and intelligent machinery. The star of the show was Walker S1, a humanoid robot capable of performing complex tasks autonomously. The factory visit significantly enhanced their understanding of China’s robotics and digital advancements.
Sustainable Innovations and Health Advancements
The tour also ventured to Yancheng, part of China's push towards carbon neutrality. At the Dafeng Port Zero-Carbon Industrial Park, reporters observed innovative efforts combining green energy strategies with traditional industries such as steel and paper, showcasing a sustainable future.
Lianyungang was another notable stop, where the Chia-Tai Tianqing Pharmaceutical Group highlighted its commitment to producing high-purity glycyrrhizic acid to combat Hepatitis B. The company’s significant focus on research and development emphasizes its role in leading healthcare innovations domestically and globally.
Connecting Tradition to Modernity
Despite technological advancements, Jiangsu continues to honor its rich cultural heritage. Traditional industries are now leveraging digital platforms to reach global markets. At Donghai Crystal City, journalists observed how local artisans are utilizing online channels to display their intricate crystal products, illustrating how Jiangsu successfully merges traditional craftsmanship with modern commerce.
The Huishan Clay Figurine Museum in Wuxi showcased this blend of culture, where skilled artisans imparted their crafts to visitors, reflecting the province's dedication to preserving its artistic heritage. The elaborate clay figurines, steeped in history, symbolize the artistic lineage that Jiangsu embodies.
Cultural performances further highlighted Jiangsu's vibrant heritage. The immersive show "Soul of the Moon" delved into the life of Hua Yanjun, a renowned erhu player, blending historical narrative with visual artistry, capturing the province's essence.
Visiting Yancheng's Huaiju Town allowed journalists to experience the preservation of intangible cultural heritage through local opera, emphasizing Jiangsu’s commitment to cultural tourism and education.
Conclusion
The New Dynamic Jiangsu 2025 Global Media Tour provided a multifaceted perspective on Jiangsu's dynamic landscape. Journalists left with a deeper appreciation for how the province successfully intertwines its rich cultural traditions with cutting-edge technology and industrial prowess. In contrast to the more common portrayals of major cities like Shanghai and Beijing, Jiangsu's less-traveled paths reveal a tapestry of experiences that embody China's historical and modern narratives, showcasing the diverse and progressive spirit of the nation.