The iconic Rugao puppet show is held at the opening ceremony of the 10th Rugao Tourism and Culture Festival on April 24. [Photo/ntfabu.com]

The 10th Rugao Tourism and Culture Festival opened at the Rugao Bonsai Sightseeing scenic area in Rugao, Nantong on April 24, with more than 10,000 tourists taking part in the gala.

The day also marked the opening of the scenic area, which was rated as a national 4A-level tourist attraction in late 2020. 

The attraction showcases the unique bonsai culture and technique of Rugao, with hundreds of pots of bonsai in various different shapes and sizes.

"Rugao boasts many tourism attractions. It currently has three national 4A-level tourist attractions and seven national 3A-level tourist attractions, offering many travel routes revolving around longevity and healthcare, ancient Chinese culture, the rural experience, and local revolutionary culture," said Xie Yubin, director of the city's culture and tourism department.

People buy local specialties during the 10th Rugao Tourism and Culture Festival on April 24. [Photo/ntfabu.com]

At the opening ceremony, a wide range of local specialties made of pork, chicken, tea, and vegetables were on display and for sale, and folk performances such as Rugao puppet shows were held as well.

In recent years, the local government has been working to boost the culture and tourism industry, with tourism revenue maintaining annual growth of more than 15 percent, according to Wang Minghao, the city's major.

Known as the "city of longevity" in China, Rugao has seen its tourism expand as its reputation improves.

"The city received 14.06 million tourists in 2020, generating combined revenue of 1.35 million yuan ($208,109)," said Wang.