A walking activity themed around protecting the environment and building a beautiful Nantong was launched in local Gangzha district on April 28.

The event is one of a series of activities meant to welcome the 2019 China Forest Tourism Festival, which will be held in Nantong in October.

More than 100 teams set off for two separate races: a 5-kilometer walk and a 10-km walk, after Xu Huimin, the city's mayor, fired the starting gun.

According to the organizers, stunning cultural performances were held at both finish lines.

Nantong has experienced significant changes over the past few years, and we are proud that it won its bid to host the forest tourism festival, said a participant of the event.

A government official addresses the launch ceremony for the walking activity at Nantong Forest Safari Park in Gangzha district, Nantong city, on April 28. [Photo/ntjoy.com]

People participate in the walking activity held at Nantong Forest Safari Park on April 28. [Photo/zgnt.net]