National Games spark village revival

The 15th National Games, jointly organized by Guangdong province and the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions, have helped improve infrastructure and advance rural vitalization.

To prepare for the country's largest comprehensive sports gala, relevant departments in Guangzhou, Guangdong's provincial capital, have vigorously improved the city's ecological environment, accelerated urban and rural construction, and promoted the integrated development of culture, sports and tourism, authorities said.

In Langtou village in Guangzhou's Huadu district, great changes have taken place thanks to the Games, which will take place between Nov 9 and 21.

"Taking advantage of the opportunity offered by the National Games, Langtou has promoted the integration of agriculture, culture and tourism, presenting a new look to attract tourists from home and abroad in previous years," said Huang Zhiyun, Party chief of the village.

Rows of stand-alone homestays renovated from old houses now boast distinctive features. With brand-new designs, they blend elegance and modern style, appealing particularly to urban visitors.

According to Huang, Chinese online retailer Vipshop signed a strategic cooperation agreement with the Huadu district government in September 2021 to promote the Langtou village rural vitalization project.

"Taking cultural revitalization as the entry point in Langtou, Vipshop has invited a renowned domestic university's architectural team to redesign the village and, through public welfare investment, is exploring a sustainable model for its high-quality development," Huang said.

"So far, the company has invested more than 300 million yuan ($42 million), along with another 100 million yuan in government investment for infrastructure and supporting facilities, reviving the charm of the large ancient village and making it a new tourist attraction in the city," Huang said.

Located in Tanbu township of Huadu district, Langtou, founded during the late Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279), has a history of more than 700 years. It boasts a large-scale and well-preserved complex of ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing (1368-1911) dynasties, which is rare in the Pearl River Delta region.

In Guangzhou's downtown area, a new cruise ship named Quanyunhao, or "National Games", officially began its maiden voyage from Tianzi Pier in Yuexiu district in late October, allowing tourists and passengers to enjoy the scenic views along the Pearl River that flows through the city.

The ship, which mainly broadcasts the theme songs of the National Games during the event, has attracted many tourists from home and abroad.

Huang Haoan, an executive with Guangzhou Public Transport Group's Liner Co, said the total screen area inside and outside the ship exceeds 100 square meters, enabling live broadcasts of the National Games and event interactions.

"The ship also innovatively applies 3D holographic projection technology, which can transform images into diverse visual forms and provide an immersive, futuristic technology experience for event services and the Pearl River night tour," Huang said, adding that a virtual greeter on board introduces the city's bridges and historical buildings.