The 2024 Xuzhou Han Culture and Tourism Festival opened on September 27 at Yunlong Lake in Xuzhou, the birthplace of the Han Dynasty (202 BC-AD 220) and a celebrated historical and cultural city.

Hosted by Xuzhou Municipal Government, the festival will run until mid-November and include 26 events centered around four themes - history, food and intangible cultural heritage, traditional attire Hanfu, and photo and video creations.

The opening ceremony showcased a variety of performances inspired by cultural relics of the Han Dynasty, including the earthenware dancing figures, alongside modern creations that blend traditional elements with rap, reflecting the ancient city's contemporary vitality.

Formerly known as Pengcheng, Xuzhou is now the central city of the Huaihai Economic Zone and a key node in the Belt and Road Initiative. This year, Xuzhou has focused on the development of "Pengcheng Seven-Li", an urban renewal initiative along a north-south central axis approximately 7 li (3.5 kilometers) long, encompassing over 200 historical and cultural sites.

The Confucius Temple Block, the project’s centerpiece blending the city’s rich cultural heritage with modern commerce, fashion and international styles, opened in late April and has become a popular destination for young people.

From January to August, Xuzhou’s 27 key tourist attractions received over 38 million visitors, an increase of more than 30% year-on-year. Non-local visitors accounted for 64% of the total, up from 43.2% during the same period last year, with total tourist spending approaching 15.9 billion yuan, representing a 28.25% increase.

To stimulate cultural tourism, Xuzhou will issue over one million yuan worth of vouchers this autumn, and introduce four curated travel routes, focusing on Pengcheng Seven-Li, Han culture studies, countryside tours, and sports and leisure activities. Furthermore, major scenic spots and museums will offer special discounts and extend their opening hours during the holiday season.