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Discovering Lianyungang: A City Shaped by Mountains and Sea

Lianyungang, located in China, is renowned for its unique geography, where mountains and the sea create a breathtaking landscape that has shaped its identity. This city not only holds a significant place in history but continues to evolve as a cultural hub. Its connection to the famous Chinese novel "Journey to the West" underlines the city's cultural richness.

Since August 2025, the municipal committee of Lianyungang has promoted a campaign known as "Reading the City." This initiative aims to engage residents and visitors in exploring the urban landscape, featuring historical architecture, location names, and long-standing local brands. Through this program, participants can delve into the city's past and its present identity, encouraging a deeper connection with the places they inhabit.

The Mountain Narrative

One of the central features of Lianyungang is Huaguo Mountain, recognized as the cultural birthplace of "Journey to the West." This mountain symbolizes themes of exploration, resilience, and ingenuity. In recent years, the city has developed immersive tourist attractions such as the Water Curtain Cave and the Seventy-Two Caves, where literary references can be experienced in a physical form. Additionally, the cliff engravings from the Eastern Han Dynasty found at Kongwang Mountain serve as a subtle reminder of the city’s longstanding role as a crossroads for beliefs, art, and exchanges.

The Maritime Chronicle

Lianyungang's coastline, adorned with curving bays and protected wetlands, serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds, emphasizing the ecological significance of the area. Historically, it has functioned as a vital junction for terrestrial and maritime routes, stretching back to ancient Silk Road networks and extending to modern railway corridors. The city boasts a diversified maritime heritage that continues to this day. Presently, Lianyungang port maintains maritime links with nearly 1,000 ports in over 160 countries and regions, connecting traditional trade patterns to contemporary commerce as part of the Belt and Road Initiative.

In essence, Lianyungang is not just a geographical location but a vivid tapestry woven from rich histories, cultural narratives, and the natural beauty of its surroundings. As the city progresses with initiatives like "Reading the City," it invites everyone to appreciate the stories embedded in its landscape, ensuring that its cultural and ecological heritage remains alive for future generations. With its strategic location and significant historical contributions, Lianyungang embodies a strong blend of the past and the future, making it a brilliant example of how geography and culture intertwine.