The 4th “Beijing - A Global City” Short Video Contest
In Beijing, surprises await at every turn, and every moment deserves to be captured. On October 22, the third themed offline shooting event of the 4th “Beijing - A Global City” Short Video Contest was held in Fangshan District. Over 40 foreign experts and overseas students from nearly 20 countries, including the United States, Australia, Morocco and Japan, were invited to explore the picturesque low mountain area in Fangshan District. There, they embarked on an unforgettable trip of “suburb walk”, visiting homestay hotels, appreciating red leaves and savoring freshly brewed coffee.
Village homestays offer the warmth of home
Huangshandian Village, located in Fangshan District, exuded a cosy vibe under the blue sky after a rain. The village is renowned for its artistic homestays, each with its own style and story. From Yunshang Shiwu B&B, featuring 10 stone castles in a 2000-mu cotinus coggygria flower sea, to Grandma’s B&B, a transformed late Qing Dynasty mansion which has won A’ Design Award, each homestay offers guests the warmth of home.
Pietro Amadini, an Italian lecturer at Beijing International Studies University praised Beijing as a comfortable city which “makes him feel at home”. Rachel Lynn Weiss, a British new media editor at CGTN, noted that while many foreign nationals are familiar with Beijing as an international metropolis, they rarely visit its suburbs. “Villages in Beijing are full of vitality, romance and traditional charm, which are worthy of exploration.”
The stunning natural beauty of red foliage
Pofengling scenic spot in Huangshandian Village is hailed by China National Geography as “having the most spectacular mountain red leaf landscape in North China”. Every autumn, Youlan Valley is transformed into a breathtaking canvas draped in vibrant red foliage. The foreign visitors ascended the 6000-meter-long stone steps, taking in the seasonal beauty of this vibrant landscape while sharing travel experiences with visitors they met along the way.
Climbing up to the observation deck, the foreign visitors were amazed by the picturesque views of the village. Filled with awe, they eagerly snapped photos with selfie sticks and mini wireless cameras. A Pakistani student from Beijing Technology and Business University said, although the climb was a bit tiring, the stunning scenery made it all worthwhile.
Discussing international services in mountain cafes
While taking pictures along the way, the foreign visitors also had the opportunity to sit down and enjoy a cup of coffee at specialty cafes. Evangelia Papazi, host of Panda Studio in Greek Language Department of China Media Group, remarked that the suburbs of Beijing, which are truly a delightful surprise, offer a perfect escape for both mental and physical relaxation. “Through this trip, we not only experience the tranquility and beauty away from urban life, but also feel Beijing’s inclusiveness and innovative spirit,” said Papazi.
Tahir Elezi, foreign teacher at Beijing International Studies University and former Ambassador of Albania to China, described Beijing as a livable city worthy of deep exploration, not only because of its vibrant natural scenery and rich cultural heritage, but also thanks to its status as an international metropolis that is exceptionally welcoming to foreigners. The city offers a wide range of services and facilities that make it easy for foreigners to embrace and enjoy the city.
