Events to bring China's attractions to travelers around the world

A series of Chinese-culture and tourism-exchange events will be held around the globe to present an authentic China to the world.

A total of 34 overseas Chinese-culture centers and 19 tourism offices overseas will host over 250 events, featuring culture and tourism products and services, in over 40 countries and regions from May 15 to June 30.

The goal is to boost international communications and cooperation in culture and tourism, and to encourage foreign tourists to visit.

Tourism exhibitions, art performances and interactive experiences will enable the public to better understand what the country has to offer.

This year marks the beginning of the country's move to integrate culture and tourism development.

"We hold on to the core task of showcasing tourism products in the event's design," says the Center of International Culture Exchange's deputy director, Liu Hongge.

Distinctive traditional culture and related tourism offerings from popular Chinese destinations will be highlighted, Liu says.

Chinese provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities, such as Shanghai, Chongqing, Sichuan and Hainan, will grasp the opportunity to display their distinctive allures.

Event organizers will also match Chinese and foreign travel agencies to ensure travelers can access the recommended travel experiences.

VR will enable travelers to sample China's charm before their trips.

Tourists can experience what it's like to travel in China via VR at Chinese culture centers in Paris and Bangkok.

"We filmed such major sights as Huanghelou tower (in Hubei province) and Pingyao ancient town (in Shanxi province) for VR devices that we took overseas in 2015," China Intercontinental Press official Liu Lijia says.

"It was a sensation in countries we reached."

Visitors can vicariously experience strolls through attractions, handle antiques, restore frescos or fly kongming lanterns.

Traditional Chinese medicine will also be a key element of the program.

The Beijing TCM administration will introduce Chinese health-travel programs to Denmark and New Zealand in the coming weeks.

Travelers will see how ancient royal families lived and preserved health by visiting their former residences, such as the Forbidden City and Summer Palace, senior TCM administration official Luo Zenggang says.

A route featuring TCM innovation and services will be available.

Visitors can witness modern TCM production, visit herb gardens at the International Horticultural Exhibition and sip health drinks, Luo says.