The 2026 Kaifeng Qingming Culture Festival has officially begun in Kaifeng, China on April 1st. This year’s theme, “Honoring Heritage, Embracing Spring,” aims to recreate the Qingming Festival’s grand spectacle as described in the historical text “A Dream of Splendor in the Eastern Capital,” capturing the bustling atmosphere of the era. The festival features Intangible Cultural Heritage showcases, traditional parades with flower-adorned hairpins, and live-action performances to showcase the charm and richness of traditional Chinese culture.
In Zhuxian Town’s Qifeng Old Garden, visitors can enjoy traditional black-canopied boat rides on the Grain Transport River and witness the ancient art of woodblock printing on New Year Painting Street. The Millennium City Park offers immersive performances and attire from the Song Dynasty era, allowing visitors to experience the historical customs firsthand. Kaifeng City also presents modern industrial technology experiences at the Chery Henan R&D Center and Jetour Auto Industrial Study Base.
These vibrant cultural and tourism scenes highlight Kaifeng’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage, promoting tourism, and establishing itself as an internationally renowned destination. In 2025, Kaifeng City received over 116 million tourist visits, generating significant revenue. The city’s initiatives align with broader regional development projects, such as the Zhengzhou-Kaifeng Integrated Development Demonstration Zone, showcasing Kaifeng’s potential for cultural and economic growth.
Furthermore, Kaifeng’s “Cultural Free Trade” initiative within the China (Henan) Pilot Free Trade Zone has seen remarkable success in exporting cultural products and promoting global outreach. Key projects like the “‘Cultural Trade Silk Road’ International Marketing” and the “Bian Embroidery Cultural and Creative R&D” program have been selected for international cultural and tourism cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative.
The Kaifeng Qingming Culture Festival, along with the city’s cultural and tourism integration efforts, demonstrates the living legacy of the Song Dynasty in Kaifeng and its commitment to sharing this unique heritage with the world. For further information, please contact Ms. Li at 86-10-63074558.
