From March 21 to 22, the Hello Beijing—Discover China Cultural Tour was held in Beijing. More than 40 diplomats from 12 countries, including Mongolia, Latvia, Türkiye, and Moldova, participated in the event. Through cultural and tourism presentations, intangible cultural heritage (ICH) experiences, and site visits, the event showcased Beijing's latest achievements in preserving its historic features, advancing urban renewal, promoting cultural and tourism integration, and facilitating inbound travel.
The event kicked off at Quanyechang in the Qianmen area. During the event, a photo exhibition titled "Hello Beijing" presented Beijing's urban landscape, highlighting the coexistence of historic relics and contemporary charm. ICH activities involving Song-style dian cha (tea whisking), Peking Opera mask painting, Beijing's bristle figurines, and Jin's kites offered participants an immersive experience of traditional Chinese craftsmanship.
A guest tries painting a facial mask used for Peking Opera.
Kimberly Zammit, Deputy Head of Mission at the Maltese Embassy in China, tried kite making and facial mask painting. She said that these diverse activities focusing on traditional Chinese culture were both fresh and engaging. Zammit added that she would recommend global tourists to come to Beijing and discover the unique charm of the local ICH firsthand.
Kimberly Zammit, Deputy Head of Mission at the Maltese Embassy in China, during an interview
At the TCM Culture Zone of Tong Ren Tang, a time-honored brand, diplomats gained firsthand insight into the health philosophy of traditional Chinese medicine. They toured displays of medicinal materials and tools, made spring wellness sachets, and learned about traditional pharmaceutical techniques.
Guests make spring health sachets.
David Tuitoga, Second Secretary at the Fijian Embassy in China who has been in Beijing for just three months, is deeply interested in TCM. Tuitoga said that this was his first time trying the traditional Chinese therapy, as he had previously only taken Western medicine. A TCM practitioner assessed his condition through his pulse and gave him a prescription. To Tuitoga, it was a wonderful experience. He believed that Beijing should share TCM culture with the world.
David Tuitoga, Second Secretary at the Fijian Embassy in China, during an interview
Later, the diplomats visited the Beijing Eight Imperial Handicrafts Museum, where they viewed exquisite examples of traditional court craftsmanship, including cloisonné, jade carving, carved lacquer, and filigree inlay. In a core commercial district, they learned about the convenient "instant tax refund" service. They also attended shows at the Beijing Fashion Week 2026, gaining a glimpse of the city’s creative vitality and evolving fashion industry. At the China National Botanical Garden, they were greeted by a blend of natural landscapes and cultural heritage. At Fahai Temple Mural Art Center, the diplomats observed up close the nationally treasured murals. The trip allowed them to have an immersive look at Beijing's achievements in building an eco-friendly capital city with cultural charm and greater livability.
Latvian Ambassador to China Kārlis Eihenbaums noted that while many visitors to Beijing prefer famous attractions such as the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven, the China National Botanical Garden is equally worth exploring. He highlighted its rich plant diversity and serene natural setting. Eihenbaums also praised the nearby Fragrant Hills for their scenic beauty, noting that visitors can hike for exercise, appreciate quaint and elegant buildings, and overlook the entire city of Beijing from the summit. He sincerely recommended everyone to come and discover this unique blend of nature and culture.
Guests at the China National Botanical Garden
Selçuk Ünal, Turkish Ambassador to China (first from right), makes two lacquer fans.
Turkish Ambassador to China Selçuk Ünal said that he was deeply impressed by every museum and exhibition he visited during this trip. The exquisite traditional Chinese crafts on display fully epitomize China's long history and rich cultural heritage. Ünal was pleasantly surprised to find many similarities between Turkish and Chinese cultures through the artifacts, particularly in the blue decorative motifs.
(Source: CRI Online)
