A group of overseas media representatives from countries including South Korea, Egypt, France, Cyprus, and Brazil embarked on a media tour today focusing on the cultural appeal of the Qingdao West Coast New Area (Qingdao WCNA), a national-level new district, on Nov 18.

The tour began at the Langyatai historical site, a millennia-old cultural landmark where journalists learned about the region's rich maritime heritage.

Zhang Ruigen, a local cultural scholar, shared historical accounts of Emperor Qinshihuang's deep connection to Langyatai, supported by recent archaeological discoveries of large Qin (221-206 BC) and Han (206 BC-AD 220)-era architectural foundations.

A journalist from Cyprus noted that Langyatai reflects China's long-standing maritime tradition and exploratory spirit. She praised the preservation approach: "The site maintains its authenticity, much like the open-air museum concept we cherish in Cyprus."

The media group also visited Puli town, an ancient port area known for its open and inclusive maritime culture.

At the town's folk museum, they observed traditional practices and local heritage. A highlight was Puli wheat-straw painting, a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage. Inheritor Xu Jiazi explained how this delicate craft transforms ordinary wheat straw into intricate artworks depicting nature and daily life.

"It's remarkable how such value is created from simple materials — a true reflection of local creativity and passion," remarked Ma Lin, Beijing bureau chief of Nouvelles D'Europe.

The two-day media tour, focusing on the area's cultural and natural landscape, aims to showcase the international profile of the Qingdao WCNA through immersive visits to its historical, industrial, and rural attractions.

Langyatai, located along the coast of Qingdao WCNA, is the only surviving platform among the eighteen ancient terraces built in the Qin Dynasty. [Photo/WeChat account: xihaianwenlv]