On February 12 (the Lantern Festival), the “China in the Eyes of Diplomats: A Tour in Fengtai” took place at the China-chic Fashion Street in Changxindian, Fengtai District, Beijing. Nearly 200 participants, including ambassadors and other diplomats from 67 countries such as Argentina, the Bahamas, Bulgaria, and Cuba, as well as representatives from international media outlets, along with their families, gathered in the ancient town of Changxindian. They enjoyed captivating dragon dances, savored yuanxiao (sweet glutinous rice balls), and appreciated Peking Opera performances, immersing themselves in the charm of the traditional Chinese culture and the vibrant energy of this revitalized town.
To help diplomats better understand Beijing, the Beijing Service Bureau for Diplomatic Missions (BDS), in collaboration with the Information Office and the Foreign Affairs Office of Beijing Municipal Government, have launched a series of cultural exchange initiatives since 2023. These initiatives, including “China in the Eyes of Diplomats”, “A Tour in XX District” and “Foreign Diplomats Experiencing Beijing”, provide foreign diplomats with in-depth experiences across Beijing’s districts.
At around 5 p.m. on Caojiakou Road in the ancient town of Changxindian, the sound of gongs and drums filled the air, and local residents spilled into the streets to watch the dragon dance. The troupe’s dragon twisted and leaped in dynamic poses, captivating foreign guests and locals alike. Next came a succession of traditional performances, including Peking Opera, face-changing, and Kuaiban, enthralling the crowd. Andrey Tehov, Bulgarian Ambassador to China, even joined the Kuaiban performance and played the English song “Happy New Year”.
Next, the guests proceeded to the EVE China-Chic Fashion Art Center for a stunning China-chic fashion show. Residents of Changxindian, dressed in traditional ethnic attire, showcased the rich cultural heritage of this ancient town with a history of nearly a thousand years. The high-end custom-fitted garments in the fashion show featured a seamless blend of traditional Chinese elements with international fashion aesthetics, highlighting the diversity and vibrancy of China-chic culture.
“As I walk down the street, I can feel the immense joy and pride of people of all ages. The whole street is vibrant, with everyone celebrating reunions together!” said Alberto Blanco Silva, Cuban Ambassador to China. He expressed great delight at being invited to this Lantern Festival event. Since first coming to China in 1986, he has spent many Spring Festivals here. He noted that China is undergoing rapid and sustainable development, adding, “Seeing is believing. Foreign friends should come and see the China of today.”
In Changxindian, a town with a history spanning nearly a thousand years, foreign diplomats immersed themselves in its profound historical heritage and vibrant atmosphere through a diverse range of activities, including traditional folk customs showcases, Peking Opera performances, fashion shows, and a creative China-chic market. They expressed their admiration for the Spring Festival as an intangible cultural heritage and China-chic aesthetics.
