A rod puppet show is offered in Shanghai by performers from Rugao Puppet Art Troupe. [Photo/WeChat account: ntwgx6]

Nantong in Jiangsu province participated in the sub-activity of the 2024 Shanghai Tourism Festival on Sept 8 in order to promote its culture and tourist attractions.

Discover the essence of Nantong through the melodies of Mei'an guqin. The event commenced with a performance by Mei'an guqin master Wang Yani, who presented the classic musical piece "Yangguan Sandie" (Parting at Yangguan Pass) while dressed in traditional hanfu attire. This performance captivated the audience with its serene, beautiful, and profound melodies.

Then, guide Zhang Chunyan provided insight into Nantong's culture, culinary offerings, and scenic spots, such as Rugao, celebrated for the longevity of its residents, and the delicious four treasures of Yellow Sea – clams, nori, eels, and razor shells.

Following Zhang's introduction, Rugao Puppet Art Troupe offered rod puppet shows, during which performers manipulated the puppets to finish the movement of face changing, spitting fire, and swinging fans, greeted by applause.

"During my previous business trips, I often traveled through Nantong and heard about the exceptional seafood there," said a resident in Shanghai, who is preparing for a tour in Rudong and Qidong after the promotion event. He remarked, "Besides tourism, residing here for a period is also favorable."

Shanghai and Nantong are linked by river and sea, which are deeply interconnected and have a high frequency of exchanges. Presently, Nantong is capitalizing on the opportunities from the integrated development of the Yangtze River Delta and actively engaging in constructing the Shanghai metropolitan area.