On May 29, the 2025 “Foreign Journalists Experiencing Beijing” - Xicheng District Special Event was successfully held. Co-hosted by the Office of Foreign Affairs Committee of the CPC Beijing Municipal Committee and Foreign Affairs Office of the People’s Government of Beijing Municipality, and Xicheng District People’s Government of Beijing Municipality, the event brought together 56 foreign journalists from 47 countries to serve as “City Explorers”, visiting Zhonghai Dajixiang, Guangyanggu Urban Forest Park, and Baita Temple Sub-district to experience the vibrant momentum of Xicheng through urban renewal.
Fusion of Past and Present: Urban Renewal Where History and Commerce Thrive in Harmony
The first stop for the foreign journalists was Zhonghai Dajixiang, where they experienced a unique model of urban renewal featuring the old nurturing the new and both thriving together.
Foreign journalists learn about the planning and development of Zhonghai Dajixiang
Modern office buildings blend seamlessly with traditional Siheyuan courtyards, while century-old trees stand alongside playful cartoon sculptures, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. The foreign journalists explored the place with great interest, expressing admiration for the integration of cultural elements into a modern business environment. They noted that this approach not only preserves the city’s historical memory but also fosters new drivers of economic growth, shaping a distinctive urban landscape that offers valuable lessons for global cities.
Foreign journalists visit Zhonghai Dajixiang
Ecological Empowerment: Garden City Development in Harmony with Traditional Culture
In 2024, Guangyanggu Urban Forest Park secured the Gold Award of the “Environmentally Sustainable Projects” at the 22nd International Awards for Liveable Communities/LivCom Awards Finals.
Located in the core area of the highly urbanized capital, Guangyanggu Urban Forest Park vividly showcases Beijing’s innovative efforts to build itself into a garden city. A journalist from Iraq’s Kurdsat Broadcasting Corporation remarked, “It’s hard to imagine such a wild natural forest in the center of a city. Every aspect of the design reflects the philosophy of harmonious coexistence between man and nature.”
Foreign journalists visit Guangyanggu Urban Forest Park
The journalists also participated in an activity to experience tea culture, immersing themselves in the charm of traditional Chinese culture.
Innovative Development: Xicheng’s Charm Unveiled in Urban Renewal and Local Flavor
Foreign journalists visited the Baita Temple Pharmacy to take in the unique view of the ancient White Pagoda juxtaposed with modern city streets—a vivid scene where the past and present intertwine. The scholarly ambiance of Baita Academy, combined with the lively atmosphere of Dongxicha Hutong, collectively created a one-of-a-kind cultural consumption scenario.
Foreign journalists learn about TCM at Baita Temple Pharmacy
A journalist from Kazakhstan’s Tengri News remarked, “Today’s experience gave me a real sense of how tradition and modernity are seamlessly blended and how Beijing balances historical preservation with innovative development. Every winding alleyway holds its own captivating story.” Paladino, a journalist from Brasil 247, said, “Here, you can sip coffee on a terrace, feel the gentle breeze, and admire the historic White Pagoda. Xicheng is both a bustling metropolis and a place that offers the relaxed vibe I love most.”
This Xicheng District Special Event marked the second event of the 2025 “Foreign Journalists Experiencing Beijing” program. Throughout the year, Beijing Foreign Affairs Office will continue to organize specialized promotions for international media, actively showcasing Beijing’s favorable business environment and global image. These efforts aim to further strengthen international cooperation and support the capital’s high-quality development and high-standard opening up.
