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The Yue Opera The Butterfly Lovers is staged in Paris. [Photo/jiaxingren.com]

The 2024 Xitang Ancient Town Tourism Promotion Meeting was held in Paris on Oct 15, bringing the charm of Xitang, a millennia-old Jiangnan water town in Jiaxing, Zhejiang province, to the romantic city of Paris.

The event began with models in elegant Hanfu set to the melody of Jasmine Flower, leading the audience into the picturesque world of Xitang. The highlight was the premiere of the promotional film A Melody of Jiangnan to Xitang, which beautifully depicted Xitang's dreamlike ambiance and rich cultural heritage, receiving widespread acclaim.

Artists from the Zhejiang Xiaobaihua Yueju Opera Troupe performed the classic Yue Opera The Butterfly Lovers, captivating the audience with their enchanting performance.

More than 100 guests from China and France gathered at the event. Yu Huajun, member of the CPC Jiashan county Party committee, said that it was an honor for Xitang, as a representative of Jiangnan water town culture, to meet with French people during the 60th anniversary of China-France diplomatic relations. Tourism serves as a bridge between civilizations, leading to cultural exchange and the strengthening of friendships.

Josiane Gaude, first deputy mayor of Paris's 7th arrondissement, said he believes that through such cultural exchanges, more French people will be able to feel the unique charm of Jiangnan (south of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River) and opera culture.

In addition, cooperation agreements were signed between the Jiaxing Xitang International Travel Agency and French travel agencies during the event, marking the start of a new chapter in tourism collaboration.

Xitang Ancient Town in Jiaxing, Zhejiang province.  [Photo/jiaxingren.com]