Beijing's Yuanmingyuan Park, known globally as the Old Summer Palace, has drawn over 3 million visitors annually with its blend of history and natural beauty. This week, its iconic Lotus Flower Festival transforms the UNESCO-recognized ruins into a living canvas of pink and white blooms.
Built as a Qing Dynasty retreat combining Chinese garden art with European architectural influences, the 352-hectare site now serves as both historical monument and cultural hub. During our visit, digital creators filmed dance performances among the lotus ponds while archaeologists explained ongoing preservation efforts using 3D mapping technology.
Local resident Mei Lin, 28, shared: 'I come every summer. Seeing lotus flowers growing through ancient stone carvings reminds us that beauty persists through change.' The park's hybrid landscape – where crumbling marble columns frame augmented reality exhibits – particularly resonates with Gen Z visitors.
Upcoming events include moonlight poetry readings and sustainable tourism workshops, aligning with growing global interest in eco-conscious cultural experiences. With direct metro access from Beijing's business district, the palace proves historical sites can thrive in modern cities.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
