Yiheyuan Rural Complex, a symbol of the rural vitalization efforts of Zibo in Shandong, leaves a deep impression on attendees of the Foire de Paris (Paris Fair) 2024. [Photo/Dazhong News]

The Foire de Paris (Paris Fair) 2024 kicked off in Paris on May 1, and Yiheyuan Rural Complex, a symbol of the rural vitalization efforts of Zibo in Shandong, has left a deep impression on attendees of a Chinese cultural themed exhibition during the event.

On May 2, during a sub-event highlighting the construction of a beautiful countryside, representatives from Zibo held a presentation promoting the achievements of rural vitalization in Shandong as a model for the region. The event included micro-documentaries, rural architectural models, photos, and displays of rural products.

The presentation featured a video of renowned architect Paul Andreu working on-site at the Yiheyuan Rural Complex, commemorating his contributions to the construction of a beautiful countryside in China.

Dong Fangjun, the initiator of the Yiheyuan Rural Complex and head of College of Rural Revitalization at Shandong University of Finance and Economics, provided a detailed introduction to the achievements in rural construction and shared experiences and reflections on the practices of the Yiheyuan Rural Complex.

The Yiheyuan Rural Complex, located in Yiyuan county, Zibo, covers seven surrounding villages, promoting industrial vitalization through public welfare methods and revitalizing villages through art, attracting numerous artists to create an artistic countryside and happy village.