The IX International Symposium on Rose Research and Cultivation will be held in Mentougou District, Beijing from May 10 to 15. Themed "Blooming in Beijing - Meeting in Yongding", the event will spotlight Beijing's achievements in the construction of a garden city. This marks the first time the symposium will take place in China in its 40-year history.

The event will consist of three major segments: an international academic conference, the 12th China Rose Exhibition, and the 2025 Beijing Rose Culture Festival. Dedicated gardens have been set up for roses from countries such as Italy, France, the United States, and Japan. Bulgaria, known as the "Land of Roses", and Syria, renowned for its Damask roses, are invited to partake in the exhibition. To ensure seamless communication for all visitors, an AI-powered digital human scenario available for real-time switches between multiple languages has been devised based on "Xiaomiaoyue", the mascot of the event.

A variety of side events will also be launched for the symposium. At the "Blossoming Encounter of East and West: Diplomats' Cultural Exchange Salon" and the "East Meets West: A Blooming Market of Unique Finds", diplomats from foreign embassies in China and their families, along with Chinese and foreign floral culture experts will engage in cultural exchanges and experiences. The Belt and Road Diplomats Cycling Series and other sports events will also be held. Some of the rest side events include the Flower YOUNG Lifestyle Festival, the Western Beijing Rose Island Music Fountain Show, and the Yongding Tower Light Show. From May 10 to 31, visitors can enjoy 50-percent discounts at five scenic areas including Gushan Village, Baqi Cave, Nanshiyang Grand Canyon, Liulixinggu, and Cuanbai Scenic Area with their ticket stubs (or other kinds of proof) for the Western Beijing Rose Island. In addition, 82 boutique "Mentougou Courtyards" also await guests holding such ticket stubs (or other kinds of proof), with discounts of 20 to 40 percent.

(Source: Beijing Fabu)