The ASEAN Gathering, a new Spring Festival landmark, enjoys great popularity among tourists during the Chinese lunar year of horse.
On February 17th, the first day of the Chinese Lunar Year of Horse, a reporter visited the ASEAN Gathering, where streets were adorned with colorful decorations and bustling with crowds, exuding a strong festive atmosphere. This cultural and tourism district, infused with Southeast Asian charm, has launched a series of special activities during the Spring Festival, making it a must-see destination for residents and tourists alike.
Entering the gathering, the red arch at the entrance is particularly eye-catching. Layers of red and yellow lanterns hang overhead, creating a merry and vibrant atmosphere. Beside the giant red inflatable gift box installation, balloons spelling out "Happy Chinese New Year" and "Gong Xi Fa Cai" (Wishing You Prosperity) attract many visitors who stop to take photos. Children laugh and play nearby, while parents capture these heartwarming moments with their phones.
The Southeast Asian-style buildings are arranged along the pathway in a pleasingly irregular layout, with thatched roofs and wooden structures perfectly complemented by the vibrant decorations. Specialty shops like "Yuxi Travel Photography" and "ASEAN Premium Collection" are bustling with crowds. Visitors are either selecting ASEAN specialty products or experiencing Southeast Asian costume photography tours, immersing themselves in the charm of exotic cultures. Businesses such as Luckin Coffee and Southeast Asian cuisine restaurants also offer visitors a diverse range of choices, catering to the consumption needs of different groups.
In the distance, the white towers of the Land Port Bridge stand out strikingly against the blue sky, providing a natural backdrop for the ASEAN Gathering. Many visitors walk along the pathway towards the bridge, enjoying the surrounding scenery and experiencing the new changes brought about by the integrated development of urban culture and tourism.
"I had been told that the Southeast Asian-style park was open to the public here before, so today I brought my family for a visit. It feels very unique, and the kids are having a great time," local resident Ms. Liu told the reporter. She deliberately chose to come here on the first day of the New Year to experience a different kind of festive atmosphere, and she was deeply impressed by the ambiance and the variety of businesses here.
Reportedly, the ASEAN Gathering also launched activities such as bonfire parties and special exhibitions, further enriching the festive lives of the public during the festival.
(Translated by Dong Yue)