Recently, the Anhui Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism released its themed promotional film “Play in Anhui” worldwide. Using an international visual language and immersive travel perspectives, the film deeply interprets Anhui’s natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and folk traditions. It presents the charm of Anhui from multiple dimensions to global travelers, further boosting Anhui’s cultural tourism brand on the world stage.

Embracing Scenic Wonders – Encounters with Nature’s Marvels

Centered on the concept of “play,” the film takes the narrative thread of “in-depth experiences of Asian travelers” as its storyline. It guides audiences across the peaks of Mount Huangshan to witness surging seas of clouds and majestic pines; drifts along the shimmering waters of Taohua (Peach Blossom) Pool where mountains reflect in the waves; and strolls through the primeval forests of Guniujiang, known as a “species gene bank.” With the traveler’s perspective and inner monologues weaving through the journey, the cinematography is both grand and fluid, gradually unveiling Anhui as a breathtaking showcase of China’s ecological landscapes—captivating viewers at every turn.

Cultural Riches – Decoding Heritage Treasures

Following the camera’s lens, audiences can wander through the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Hongcun and Xidi in Yixian County, admiring the iconic Hui-style architecture of whitewashed walls and black-tiled horse-head roofs. In Anqing, the birthplace of Huangmei Opera, they can touch Zhenfeng Tower and listen to the lilting melodies of this traditional art form. In Shuidong Ancient Town, Anhui shadow puppetry—dubbed “the world’s oldest cinema”—comes alive as bamboo rods manipulate figures behind illuminated screens. Through its delicate capture of Huizhou merchant culture, ancestral hall traditions, and opera heritage, the film vividly interprets Anhui’s profound historical and cultural legacy.

Flavors of Everyday Life – A Feast for the Senses

“Play in Anhui” highlights not only what visitors can “see” and “explore” but also what they can “taste” and “share.” Anhui is more than an ink-and-wash landscape—it is also a living encyclopedia of cuisine. The film features the famed stinky mandarin fish, whose pungent aroma belies its unique savory taste; crispy yet tender fermented tofu; the rich, layered flavors of Hu Shih’s One-Pot Dish; the fragrant and flaky Huangshan pancakes; and the elegant, mellow notes of Huangshan Maofeng tea—each dish igniting viewers’ taste buds. Interspersed with scenes of traditional festivals and folk activities, the film authentically recreates the lively and vibrant everyday atmosphere of Anhui, leaving audiences eager to share their experiences with others.

Anhui sincerely invites travelers from across Asia and around the world to cross mountains and seas to this land of wonder and charm, and to experience firsthand the boundless excitement of “Beautiful Anhui, Welcoming the World.”

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES