Langshan Mountain National Forest Park in Nantong. [Photo provided to en.nantong.gov.cn]

The 2024 Nantong Jianghai International Cultural Tourism Festival will raise its curtain at 7:30 pm on Sept 29 at the Huanxi Culture Square.

The culture and tourism festival, running until the end of this year, will include an opening ceremony and eight themed events.

At the opening ceremony, 10 renowned local banquets and cuisine will be announced, the appointment ceremony of Nantong's culture and tourist attraction referrers will be held, and discount coupons for the festival will be issued. In addition, a drone performance and water trapeze show will be staged.

The eight themed events encompass culture and tourism project matchmaking meetings, a shopping carnival, cultural performances from Shanghai and Nantong, initiatives to expand the local culture and tourism market, consumption promotion activities, and sports competitions.

Renowned travel agencies in the Yangtze River Delta will be invited to explore the travel routes in Nantong and online travel influencers on short-video platforms Douyin and Xiaohongshu will experience the city's rich culture and scenic landscapes.

The New Year sunrise greeting activity will comprise a fireworks display, recreational vehicle camping, a bonfire concert, folk customs performances, and beach riding.

The first China-ASEAN Martial Arts Competition will also take place during the festival, welcoming 1,200 athletes from 10 ASEAN countries.