Over 50 representatives of overseas tour operators and travel influencers from nearly 10 countries and regions, including Germany, Italy, France, and the United States, gathered in Nantong, Jiangsu province, on April 19 to experience the city's unique charm and vibrant energy.

During their visit, the delegation enjoyed the river and sea scenery, explored the city's historical and cultural heritage, and savored seafood delicacies, continuously discovering the surprises this city offered through comprehensive sensory experiences and emotional connections.

The group explores Nantong. [Photo provided to en.nantong.gov.cn]

At the Nantong Blue Calico Museum, members of the delegation, under the guidance of intangible cultural heritage practitioners, immersed themselves in learning the processes of carving, paste scraping, and dyeing involved in making blue calico. As the blue and white patterns gradually emerged on the fabric, an international blogger said, "The beauty of this blue and white needs no translation; it naturally aligns with the current global pursuit of traditional culture and the revival of craftsmanship."

At a promotional event, there were special showcases and sales of intangible cultural heritage items such as blue calico cloth, Nantong paper-cutting, and Rugao dough figurines. Performances of Mei'an guqin music, Rugao puppet shows, and Rudong acrobatics and magic, all uniquely representative of Nantong's cultural heritage, were featured.

Several tour operators from Italy and Canada said this trip to Nantong had sparked a deep interest in the city, adding that they plan to return multiple times for further exploration, creating more opportunities to deepen international cultural and tourism cooperation.