When the 19th Asian Games kicked off, Shaoxing—a city steeped in 2,500 years of history—became an unexpected star . Known globally for its fragrant yellow rice wine, this ancient Chinese town is now riding a wave of tourism as visitors blend sports fever with cultural exploration.
\"Think of Shaoxing as the OG influencer of East Asia,\" laughs a local guide. The city’s cobblestone alleys and traditional breweries have attracted a new crowd: travelers chasing both athletic events and Instagram-worthy moments. CGTN’s Wang Mengjie reports that hotel bookings surged by 40% during the Games, with visitors sipping yellow wine between cheering sessions.
The Asian Games didn’t just bring medals—it spotlighted Shaoxing’s unique charm. From wine-tasting workshops to canal tours, the city is proving that ancient traditions and modern mega-events can coexist. One traveler tweeted: \"I came for the sports, stayed for the culture…#WinWin.\"
With its UNESCO-worthy heritage and newfound global exposure, Shaoxing shows how mega-events can breathe fresh life into historic gems. As the Games wrap up, locals hope the world remembers their town as more than just a co-host—but as a living museum of Chinese craftsmanship.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com