Sunset by Haohe River. [Photo provided by Lu Ping to en.nantong.gov.cn]

The special exhibition "Millennium Haohe River, Centennial Imprint" will open on May 1 at the Shenghehui Hall in Jinaofang, Nantong.

Since the call for submissions was issued, over 100 new and old photos and art collections have been submitted. Based on the submitted and specially invited works, this special exhibition will design four exhibition spaces, leading visitors on an immersive journey through time.

This visual feast spanning 30 days serves as a fond look at the mother river's cultural heritage and a time letter dedicated to contemporary Nantong residents.

Haohe River lights up at night. [Photo provided by Peng Changqing to en.nantong.gov.cn]

The Haohe River, recognized as one of the four remaining ancient moats in China, boasts a historical lineage that dates back to the fifth year of the Xiande era of the Later Zhou Dynasty (958). For millennia, this river has served as a primary drinking source for the residents of Nantong, as well as a vital route for salt transportation, driving the prosperity of Nantong through salt.

Today, the winding Haohe River stretches for 10 kilometers, covering an area of 69.33 hectares, and is a national 5A-level tourist attraction and the "most beautiful water landmark" in China. The beauty of the Haohe River lies not only in its natural scenery but also in its integration with the daily lives of the city's residents. This "emerald necklace" nurtures the city like a mother, becoming Nantong residents' eternal spiritual sustenance.