The Yangtze River, renowned as China’s “mother river,” has been a life source and emblem of China’s profound cultural heritage for millennia. It not only symbolizes the country’s long-standing history but also stands as a representation of the heart of Chinese civilization.
With the weight of such a significant heritage, the provinces and cities flanking the Yangtze River have embarked on an ambitious mission. They aim to protect, inherit, and amplify the Yangtze River’s culture by establishing the Yangtze River National Cultural Park. This endeavor is more than just the preservation of cultural relics; it’s about weaving the past into the present and ensuring that the rich tapestry of the Yangtze’s legacy thrives amidst modern Chinese civilization.
Recently, Chinese President Xi Jinping took a closer look at this initiative during his visit to Jiujiang, located in East China’s Jiangxi Province. Here, he inspected the park’s urban section, focusing on understanding the local endeavors in constructing the park, rejuvenating the ecological landscape along the Yangtze River’s banks, and steering petrochemical industries towards sustainable green development. Additionally, Xi Jinping’s visit also extended to other parts of Jiangxi, including Jingdezhen and Shangrao cities.
Culture enthusiasts have highlighted that the Yangtze River National Cultural Park is of paramount importance. It encapsulates the essence of water and fishery conservation, acts as a catalyst for economic and social progress, and embodies the rich tapestry of China’s cultural history.
The sheer scope of this national cultural park is awe-inspiring. Spanning across 13 provinces, it houses a staggering collection of World Cultural Heritage sites and significant agricultural cultural heritages. With 42 significant locations, 841 national-level intangible cultural heritages, 465 historical sites, towns, and villages, and 91 top-tier museums, the park is a reservoir of China’s multifaceted cultural lineage.
In line with the guidelines issued by Chinese authorities, including the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, there is a pronounced effort to rejuvenate the cultural and tourism sectors. By ensuring a rich supply of high-quality cultural products and fostering the Yangtze Economic Belt, a harmonious merger of culture and tourism is being envisioned.
Jiujiang, with its expansive 152-kilometer shoreline along the Yangtze River, sits at the heart of this national cultural park within Jiangxi Province. Its rich history of over 2,200 years has made it a magnet for cultural aficionados over ages. Landmarks such as the Pipa Pavilion, inspired by the illustrious poet Bai Juyi from the Tang Dynasty, anchor Jiujiang’s cultural significance in the park.
Jiujiang is also ardently working on enhancing the Yangtze culture. By intertwining landmarks and fostering urban renewal, the city is driving a transformative shift, perfectly embodying the “Most Beautiful Yangtze River Bank” vision.
Prominent cultural experts, such as Professor Zhang Yiwu from Peking University, view the Yangtze River National Cultural Park as a crucial measure to safeguard China’s “main artery.” It holds significant potential not only to underscore the Chinese cultural identity but also to elevate the quality of life for its people.
In conclusion, the Yangtze River National Cultural Park stands as a testimony to China’s unwavering commitment to its rich heritage and its future aspirations. It’s a celebration of a glorious past and a promise for a harmonious, sustainable future.
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