Celebrated author Jin Yucheng poses for a photo in Xinghua during his visit. [Photo/WeChat account: xinghuafabu]
A long-awaited television series, which was released in both Mandarin and in the Shanghai dialect in late December, has sparked discussions among residents. The series has been adapted from writer Jin Yucheng's award-winning novel, Fan Hua – or Blossoms Shanghai.
In 2013, Jin Yucheng won the second Shi Naian Literary Award in Xinghua city, located East China's Jiangsu province. Xinghua was the hometown of Shi Naian, author of the Chinese classic Outlaws of the Marsh – written in the 14th century – so it has become the permanent home of the award.
In November 2013, Jin Yucheng, along with 14 members from Shanghai Writers' Association, paid a visit to Xinghua. They took photos in tourist spots such as the former residence and memorial hall of Zheng Banqiao, and Zhao Haixian's western-style building – both famous historical figures from the city.
Through the on-site visit, Jin expressed his view that Xinghua was a wonderful place with a long history and rich cultural heritage.