Foreign media journalists and social media influencers enjoy a shadow puppet show performed by Fan Zheng'an, a sixth-generation practitioner of the Taishan art of solo puppetry. [Photo by Wang Qian/chinadaily.com.cn]

A cultural event titled "Meeting the Sea along the Yellow River, Global Influencers Explore Shandong's Charm" kicks off on Sept 8, showcasing Shandong's unique tourism resources, local customs, and rapid development to an international audience.

Hosted by the Shandong Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, the event combines online promotion and offline tours. It involves a group of 16 foreign media journalists and social media influencers from countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Greece, Egypt, Russia, Rwanda, and Yemen.

Foreign media journalists and social media influencers pose for a photo with music artists from the Inner Mongolia autonomous region. [Photo by Wang Qian/chinadaily.com.cn]

The group will visit representative cities such as Weifang, known as the "World Kite Capital"; Zibo, a new internet-famous city; and Dongying, the city where the Yellow River meets the sea. The group will get to try local food, and discover the province's scenery and distinctive products. The participants will also get to learn about Shandong's rich historical and cultural heritage.

The Yellow River meanders through nine cities in Shandong before flowing into the sea, thus provincial authorities are focused on showcasing Yellow River culture during this event. The province is also set to highlight why it is renowned as the "hometown of Confucius and Mencius", and the "land of etiquette and ceremonies".

Of note, the "Meeting the Sea along the Yellow River, Global Influencers Explore Shandong's Charm" event aims to promote the province's "Friendly Shandong, Remarkable Shandong" brand.

This event will not only be promoted on multiple China Daily platforms, but it will also be highlighted on several overseas mainstream media sites, thus expanding Shandong's international influence.

Foreign media journalists and social media influencers try their hands at performing puppet shows. [Photo by Wang Qian/chinadaily.com.cn]

An expat is attracted by the traditional Weifang dragon-head kites. [Photo by Wang Qian/chinadaily.com.cn]