Chrysanthemums in Full Bloom: Experiencing the Vibrant Growth of Kaifeng’s Cultural and Tourism Industry

Event Site ((Photo：Taiwan.cn )

November 6th(Taiwan.cn)—To allow local Taiwan compatriots, their families, and residents to experience the charm of the “City of Chrysanthemums”, the Taiwan Affairs Office of the Kaifeng Urban-Rural Integration Demonstration Zone recently organized a citizens’ inspection group to visit the Civic Square. There, they participated in the themed cultural tour event “Fragrant Chrysanthemums of China, Blossoms in Bianliang — Discovering Kaifeng’s Development” to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the 43rd Kaifeng Chrysanthemum Culture Festival and witness the city’s thriving cultural and tourism industries.

 

Entering the Civic Square, visitors were greeted by chrysanthemums of every hue blooming gracefully in the breeze. The artistically arranged chrysanthemum displays harmonized beautifully with the greenery and leisure facilities of the plaza. Members of the study group slowed their pace, pausing to admire the flowers, discuss their varieties, or capture the splendid scenery with their cameras, frequently voicing their admiration.

 

“Kaifeng has a history of over a thousand years in chrysanthemum cultivation, reaching its peak during the Northern Song Dynasty. In 1983, Kaifeng designated the chrysanthemum as its city flower and established an annual Chrysanthemum Cultural Festival. Beyond its ornamental value, the chrysanthemum also possesses medicinal, edible, and health benefits, symbolizing resilience, purity, and auspiciousness.” explained Ms. Zhai, a family member of a Taiwan compatriot and a former educator, who enthusiastically acted as a “tour guide” for the group, sharing the history of Kaifeng’s chrysanthemums and the origins of the festival.

 

In recent years, Kaifeng has vigorously advanced its strategy of becoming a strong cultural and tourism city, with frequent successes and growing popularity. This event not only allowed Taiwan compatriots and their families to appreciate the charm of chrysanthemum culture but also further strengthened consensus on promoting integrated cultural and tourism development. Participants expressed that they would become “ambassadors” of Kaifeng’s chrysanthemum culture—telling the story of the “chrysanthemum of Kaifeng” well and contributing to making Kaifeng–Taiwan integration more high-quality, heartfelt, and full of vitality.

 

(Reported jointly by Taiwan.cn and the Taiwan Affairs Office of Kaifeng City)