Project makes expats feel right at home

The participants hail from 36 countries, including Japan, France, the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, Australia, Argentina, Pakistan, Egypt, and Zimbabwe.

"I am deeply moved by these videos," Kong says. "Everyone's collective effort enables the world to experience an authentic and charming Shanghai."

Kong anticipates that the participating expats will create more short videos and share additional Shanghai narratives to enhance the global understanding of the city and further attract visitors.

In 2024, the country took significant steps to open up further. China implemented a 30-day visa-free policy for 38 countries and extended the 240-hour visa-free transit policy to 54 countries.

"Currently, 560,000 international tourists are staying in Shanghai each week," Kong says. "We look forward to expats here fully developing their influence and serving as bridges for friendly exchanges between China and foreign countries, as well as becoming storytellers of Shanghai and ambassadors for the city's image."

Since Dec 5, 42 works out of the more than 200 submissions have been featured on social media platforms domestically and internationally, captivating audiences with diverse narratives and artistic interpretations.

Tobias Le Compte, a Belgian musician who plays at the Jazz at Lincoln Center Shanghai, shares his life in the city, showcasing his gigs, dining at local restaurants, and chatting with locals in his video. He also discusses his attachment to the city, which has become more internationally diverse, convenient and safe.

Le Compte, a social media influencer, is not only a versatile musician but also a linguistic whiz. Living in Shanghai since 2008, he has mastered the Shanghai dialect better than most locals.