A Cultural Bridge Between China and France
Huangshan Tourism Development Co., Ltd. (HSTD), the official custodian of the iconic Huangshan Mountain, recently organised a prestigious tourism showcase in Paris under the theme Huangshan & Paris: A Grand Celebration of World Heritage. The event aimed to highlight Huangshan’s exceptional natural beauty, deep cultural heritage, and growing appeal as a must-visit destination for international travellers.
A Celebration of Culture and Tourism
The event brought together representatives from Chinese and French governments, international organisations, travel agencies, airlines, and media outlets. It served as a platform to strengthen cultural and tourism ties between China and France, showcasing the rich landscapes and historic charm of Huangshan, a UNESCO-listed dual heritage site.
Zhang Dehui, President of HSTD, opened the event with a speech that drew poetic parallels between the art and history of Paris and the breathtaking scenery of Huangshan. “When the timeless elegance of the Louvre merges with Huangshan’s breathtaking scenery, and Bordeaux’s vineyards blend with Huizhou’s lush tea fields, this cultural exchange will craft a new chapter in our shared legacy,” he stated.
Guests at the event were introduced to Huangshan’s world-class tourism offerings, including its iconic granite peaks, ancient villages, and cultural landmarks that have inspired artists and poets for centuries. With a history stretching back thousands of years, Huangshan is not only a natural wonder but also a living museum of China’s rich traditions and craftsmanship.
Growing Tourism Interest from France
With China extending visa-free travel for French citizens in 2024 and introducing policies to facilitate inbound travel, interest in Chinese destinations has surged. Hu Lin, Assistant Director of the China National Tourist Office in Paris, highlighted the timely nature of the event. “The French market for travel to China has been growing rapidly, and today’s Huangshan tourism promotion perfectly aligns with this momentum,” she noted.
Marie Pierre, an international tourism expert for the World Tourism Organization who has visited Huangshan twice, shared her admiration for its breathtaking landscapes. “This event helps deepen the French people’s understanding of Huangshan, encouraging more visitors to experience its wonders firsthand,” she said.
In addition to natural beauty, Huangshan is renowned for its tea culture, particularly the prized Huangshan Maofeng tea, which is considered one of China’s finest green teas. Visitors can explore the region’s tea plantations, learn about traditional tea-making techniques, and experience authentic local hospitality.
Strengthening Cultural and Tourism Exchanges
Paris city councilor Daniel Tran, who oversees international relations in the city’s 13th arrondissement, emphasised the role of tourism in fostering cross-cultural understanding. He expressed hope for continued exchanges between France and Huangshan, recognising the event’s contribution to deepening bilateral connections.
Renowned cultural ambassador Christophe Dantes, who has lived in Shanghai for over 20 years, travelled from the Alps to attend. Reflecting on his experiences, he shared: “I have visited Huangshan many times, and each time, it sparks my creative inspiration. It has truly become my spiritual home.”
New Partnerships to Expand Huangshan’s European Presence
A significant outcome of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Huangshan Yingkesong Travel Service and O’Plaisir Du Voyage. This partnership will focus on expanding Huangshan’s visibility in the European travel market and attracting more visitors from France and beyond.
By promoting its cultural and natural treasures, Huangshan is strengthening its position as a global travel destination, offering a unique blend of history, heritage, and stunning landscapes for travellers from around the world.