The Taipingjiao Scenic Area in Shinan district – in Qingdao city in East China's Shandong province – is home to dozens of European-style buildings, nestling amongst its greenery.

Now, the first Qingdao French Culture and Arts Festival, to be held in Taipingjiao on June 5-6, will enable the admirers of European culture to discover the authentic art of France.

As a result, more locals interested in French culture and the arts will gain a better insight into that country's rich culture – as well as its lifestyle reflected in community culture, food and drink – through an art show and open-air bazaar held during the two-day event.

In addition, the cultural festival will also tap the potential to woo French companies and some of their renowned brands to settle in Shinan, in a bid to increase commerce between the two sides.

Famous portraits by Vincent van Gogh, the Dutch post-impressionist painter – who lived for a while in France and who was inspired by it to create some of his finest works there – illustrate the country's fashion styles in late 19th century. [Photo/WeChat account: qdweishinan]