The 17th Qi Culture Festival opened in Linzi district of Zibo, Shandong province on Sept 12.

Zibo is the capital of the ancient Qi state, which was one of the most powerful states during the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC) and the Warring States Period (475-221 BC). 

The identity of Qi culture is represented by the Great Wall of Qi and cuju, a sport played in ancient China that resembled modern soccer.

Cuju was listed in the first batch of national intangible cultural heritage items, and Linzi district in Zibo, was affirmed as the origin of the sport of soccer by FIFA in 2004.

During his speech at the opening ceremony, Jiang Duntao, Party secretary of Zibo, said that culture is a country and nation's soul, and Qi culture has imbued Zibo with the enterprising spirit of "not wanting to be left behind, but standing at the top of the tide".

This year, the event featured a dazzling array of activities, including the first Zibo Tsingtao Beer Festival, the Rye Music Festival, the first Zibo Sports and Tourism Festival, the Luzhong Electronic Sports Competition and the Zibo Animation Culture and Fashion Exhibition.

Over 40 culture and tourism activities will also be held in Zibo's districts and counties.

The 17th Qi Culture Festival opens in Linzi district of Zibo, Shandong province on Sept 12. [Photo/dzwww.com]

Traditional opera is staged during the opening ceremony. [Photo/dzwww.com]

Robots perform during the opening ceremony of the 17th Qi Culture Festival. [Photo/dzwww.com]

People participate in the activities of the 17th Qi Culture Festival. [Photo/dzwww.com]