Gen Z Journalists from China and Abroad Explore the Millennia-Old Charm of Huai’an

From June 7 to 8, the “This is Huai’an” event featuring Gen Z journalists from China and abroad took place in Huai’an. Young journalists from ten countries including Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Myanmar immersed themselves in the millennia-old charm of Huai’an.

The journalists' journey spanned ancient and modern times. At the Journey to the West Theme Park, they explored modern interpretations of the classic novel’s fantasy world. In Hexia Ancient Town, they experienced the weight of history and tried making Huai’an tea crisps (“Cha San”), a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage. When visiting Premier Zhou Enlai’s former residence, the modest furnishings deeply moved Michael, a journalist from the Philippines.

Young journalists at Zhou Enlai’s Former Residence

Photo by Wang Hao

At Yuefeng Technology Co., Ltd., the journalists witnessed the integration of traditional craftsmanship with intelligent manufacturing. At the national-level Xuyi Lobster Demonstration Base, they experienced the fun of lobster fishing, explored the complete industry chain from pond to table, and tasted the spicy flavors of Huai’an’s booming industry at “Ke Street.”

Young journalists at Maba Crayfish Base

Photo by Wang Hao

From the magnificent Hongze Lake to the ecologically valuable Jiangba Ancient Town and Xiangshan Park, the Grand Canal Cultural Corridor under night lights with its millennia-old water transport history, and the Flower Street blending ancient and modern elements—Huai’an’s charm made the journalists reluctant to leave.

Young journalists on Flower Street

Photo by Wang Hao

The young journalists shuttled between smart factories and rural farmlands, paused at millennia-old historic sites and modern parks, tasted authentic local cuisine, and exchanged views with industrial pioneers. Amidst the intertwining of history and modernity, they pieced together a vivid, multidimensional image of Huai’an—delivering a clear message to the world: This is Huai’an!

(Written by Huai’an International Communication Center)