A scene from a drum dance performance during the opening ceremony of the 4th Traditional Sports International Festival in Qidong, Nantong, Jiangsu province, on Oct 23. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

The 4th Traditional Sports International Festival took place from Oct 23 to 25 in Qidong, Nantong, Jiangsu province, following previous editions in Qujing and Kunming in Yunnan province and Jiangyin in Jiangsu province.

This year's event attracted 824 participants from more than 60 countries and regions. Six competitive events were featured, including martial arts, health qigong (a traditional Chinese health and wellness practice), Go, Chinese chess, dragon and lion dances, and kite flying. Heqiu (Chinese shuttlecock kicking) was also included as an invitational event.

Traditional sports are gaining popularity among international enthusiasts and serving as a vibrant showcase of Chinese culture. Qidong also took the opportunity presented by the event to showcase its distinctive character to the world.

During the games, the county-level city organized cultural tours and sightseeing routes, allowing athletes from home and abroad to explore its coastal scenery, natural attractions and rich cultural heritage while taking part in the competitions.