On August 29, Beijing Foreign Affairs Office and Yanqing District Government invited 78 journalists from 67 countries, such as Thailand, Ghana, Argentina, Belarus, and Saudi Arabia, to visit Yanqing. During their visit, they had the opportunity to experience the night-time economy of the Badaling Great Wall, and witness how Beijing’s ecological conservation area is developing new business forms that integrate culture and tourism while maintaining a commitment to ecological protection and green development.
Upon arrival at the Yeyahu (Wild Duck Lake) National Wetland Park, the journalists were greeted by the lush greenery. The crystal-clear lake and verdant mountains appeared to extend beyond the horizon. They paused at the observation deck to capture photos, or leisurely strolled along the corridor while savoring coffee, relishing the allure of the wetland amid the chirping of birds and insects.
Various birds, including mallard ducks, herons, and great crested grebes, frolicked in the water or soared through the sky. Against this picturesque scene, the journalists captured footage with their phones, cameras, and microphones. "The park’s ecological conservation efforts embody the philosophy of harmonious coexistence between human and nature, showcasing Beijing’s commitment to wetland preservation," remarked a reporter from La Prospérité in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
As the sun set, the city came to life with a dazzling display of lights. The Badaling Great Wall, illuminated by the lights, resembled a majestic Chinese dragon snaking along the mountain range. The view was truly breathtaking. At a cultural block situated at the foot of the Great Wall, the journalists were treated to performances that showcased the rich cultural heritage of China, including "Colorful China Chic" and "Oriental Rhythm of Drums". They were deeply impressed by the seamless integration of history and modernity, culture and technology, and gave the performers standing ovations.
As a Chinese proverb goes, "Those who do not make their way to the Great Wall are not true heroes." For journalists, leaning against the beacon tower and witnessing the majestic dragon winding through the mountains have become an unforgettable experience. "I am moved to tears - this place is as beautiful as heaven. The magnificence of the Great Wall illuminated by the night sky will be a cherished memory that I will hold onto forever," said Ali Abbas, a reporter from Pakistan’s City News Network.
The journalists also visited Lipao Village in Yanqing District to witness the positive impact of the rural revitalization strategy. They were impressed by the achievements in building a new countryside, which they found to be as beautiful and harmonious as European towns. They intend to report their observations back to their respective countries, with the hope of sharing the valuable experience of transforming the agriculture and tourism industry.
Planned by the Beijing Foreign Affairs Office, the “Foreign Journalists Visit Beijing” series of events aim to showcase the city’s progress in the new era. This includes the integration of the five key initiatives into the new development paradigm, improvements in the business environment, and the priorities of each district. Through a combination of visits and immersive experiences, foreign journalists are invited to explore Beijing and gain insight into its rapidly growing economic vitality. This creates a favorable external environment for economic recovery and supports the city’s high-quality development. This visit to Yanqing marks the 10th event of the "Foreign Journalists Visit Beijing" series in 2023.
Further reading
The Yeyahu Wetland Nature Reserve is situated in the northwestern part of Yanqing District and spans across a vast area of 6,873 hectares. It is the most extensive natural reserve in Beijing that comprises various wetland types, such as reservoir ponds, herbaceous marshes, forested marshes, and riverine wetlands. The reserve is primarily dedicated to bird protection and serves as a home to numerous migratory bird species throughout the year.
Lipao Village, is located in the western part of Badaling Town, Yanqing District. It is primarily known for its fruit tree cultivation and ecotourism. The village has vigorously developed fruit tree horticulture and boutique homestays to promote the Great Wall culture and provide idyllic leisure services. The village blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape and has become a unique agricultural and leisure tourism resort with excellent infrastructure, thriving industries, and a beautiful environment for both living and traveling.
Badaling Great Wall is located in Yanqing District, 60 kilometers away from downtown Beijing. It has historically served as a crucial pass to protect the capital and is commonly referred to as the "Key to the North Gate of Beijing". The night tour of the Badaling Great Wall has helped to spread the Great Wall culture, attract high-quality cultural enterprises, and provide the public with a cultural consumption experience. As a result, it has effectively boosted the exchange and popularization of the Great Wall culture and contributed to the development of Yanqing’s night-time economy.
