Yulin: A harmonious blend of ecology and culture

Yulin features lush forests. [Photo/Yulin Daily]

Yulin, once considered a vulnerable wound in the Yellow River Basin, has made significant strides in ecological recovery and cultural preservation.

In the early years of the People's Republic of China, the Mu Us Desert, with its 8.6 million mu (573,333 hectares) of shifting sands, contributed an annual average of 513 million metric tons of sediment to the Yellow River. Now, forest coverage has soared from 0.9 percent to 36 percent, forming a robust 2.3 million mu "green wall" of pine forests.

"This transformation is a testament to the dedication of Yulin's residents in combating desertification," said Wang Lirong, deputy director of Yulin forestry and grassland bureau.

Wang added that the city plans to complete 1.89 million mu of forestry and grassland projects in 2025. At the edge of the Mu Us Desert, 10 major ecological projects are underway, complemented by a "green network" that integrates urban and natural environments.

Yulin's high forest coverage. [Photo/Yulin Daily]

Equally inspiring is the cultural renaissance taking place. The Shaanxi Yellow River Cultural Museum in Jiaxian county features a captivating installation of the Yellow River, composed of 5,464 mechanical modules that play with light and shadow. Holographic technology brings the jade artifacts of the Shimao ancestors to life, while VR experiences revive the once-lost Jiaxian Saisai Opera.

The museum has attracted over 530,000 visitors since its opening in 2023, boosting the county's tourism revenue by 50 million yuan ($6.96 million) and creating 1,100 jobs.

Xue Xiaohua, the museum's director, said the museum is planning an immersive red culture-themed exhibition and a Yellow River-themed light show that will allow visitors to engage with 5,000 years of civilization.

"The Yellow River is the cradle of Chinese civilization and a testing ground for ecological governance. Protecting its ecology is tantamount to safeguarding Chinese civilization itself," Xue said.

Yulin's experience exemplifies how the synergy of ecological governance and cultural heritage can infuse new vitality into Chinese civilization.

The interior of Shaanxi Yellow River Cultural Museum. [Photo/Yulin Daily]