Fifty writers, poets, and translators from ASEAN countries and different parts of China visited three villages in Huzhou, Zhejiang province, following the start of the third Journey of ASEAN Young Writers in China and the Beautiful China International Writing Program on Sept 18.

Their stops included Yucun village in Anji county, Lucun village in Wuxing district, and Xiaochendu village in Changxing county, where they learned about local ecological development, cultural preservation, and rural life.

In Yucun, the birthplace of the concept that "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets", participants learned about the village's shift from mining and cement production toward tourism and culture.

Vorn Sokuntheary, an editor from Cambodia, said Yucun reminded her of her hometown, which also has mountains, forests, and bamboo crafts. She said Yucun's tourism development could offer valuable insights for her hometown.

Visitors pose for a group photo during their visit to Huzhou, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Tide News]

In Lucun, participants visited three exhibition venues featuring Chinese classics, art, and local culture. Lao scholar and editor Sathaphone Sommalen said the artworks he saw there could influence his writing.

In Xiaochendu, participants walked across ancient bridges, visited old houses and art studios, and joined local cultural activities. Vietnamese translator and publisher Nguyen Le Chi was particularly impressed by the village's reading spaces and its women's book club.

During the event, the writers also met with local literature enthusiasts to exchange ideas on reading and writing.