Recently, a group of 25 media executives and senior journalists from African countries such as Ethiopia, The Gambia, and Zambia, participated in the "African Journalists Training Class" and visited the Yueyang Tower Scenic Area. Following the scenic route, they embarked on a fascinating journey to explore the thousand-year cultural heritage of Yueyang.

During the visit, the foreign tourists enjoyed joyful interactions. They captured the beautiful scenery on their phones and enthusiastically took photos with local tourists along the way. 

On Bianhe Street, the foreign guests were delighted by the dazzling array of distinctive souvenirs, like Hunan embroidery and cotton clothing. They eagerly selected some to take back to Africa. 

"Seeing so many people here made me really curious. Once I stepped inside, everything fascinated me—the architectural style of Yueyang Tower, the ancient paintings and inscriptions, and the stories of Fan Zhongyan. It felt like traveling through history. It's amazing to be able to visit this place in 2025. Moreover, the lush greenery and serene environment are so pleasant, and I can truly feel the meticulous care the Chinese government and people have devoted to preserving this heritage."

                                 --Tabitha Anyango Otieno, a journalist from Kenya's Nation Media Group

"I'm truly amazed by China's development today, especially in Yueyang. I never expected so many people to visit Yueyang Tower. Here, I've learned about its thousand-year history and felt the spirit of China's relentless dedication to progress over the centuries. This is exactly what Africa should learn from. Inspired by the Chinese people's passion, unity, hard work, and deep respect for culture, Africa can achieve even greater heights in its development journey. My fellow journalists and I will bring everything we've witnessed in China back to Africa, reporting on the transformations happening here. We must work together to encourage African countries to learn from China's path of development and keep striving for greater progress."

                                                   -- Wallen Simwaka, a news editor from the Zambia Daily Mail

The foreign guests are scheduled for a three-day visit in Yueyang.

The delegation's itinerary includes visits to Junshan Park, Jiangtun (finless porpoise) Bay in Junshan, Zhang Guying Village, the Chenglingji New Port Area, the Yueyang China-Africa Economic and Trade Pilot Zone Headquarters Base, as well as Yueyang Bangsheng Industrial Co., Ltd., and Yueyang Guansheng Investment Development Co., Ltd.

As the 4th Hunan Tourism Development Conference approaches, Yueyang is stepping into the global spotlight. With open arms, the city invites visitors from around the world to embark on a cultural journey through a millennium of history to witness the charm of Hunan's cultural and tourism landscape.

This article is from Hunan Provincial Government. www.enghunan.gov.cn.

Translator: Xiao Juan

Chinese source: hunantoday