An actor portrays Sun Tzu during the opening ceremony of the 16th Sun Tzu Cultural Tourism Festival in Guangrao county, Dongying. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The 16th Sun Tzu Cultural Tourism Festival and the 2024 Yellow River Estuary (Guangrao) Sun Tzu Cultural Forum were recently held in Guangrao county, Dongying in East China's Shandong province, the birthplace of the Chinese military strategist Sun Tzu.

Experts, international scholars, representatives from institutions related to Sun Tzu studies, and enthusiasts gathered at these two cultural events to explore the contemporary relevance of Sun Tzu's cultural heritage.

As the hometown of Sun Tzu, Dongying is committed to playing an active role in preserving and promoting his cultural legacy. Through continuing research and interpretation on Sun Tzu, including scholarly discussions and related projects, over 30 academic works have been published, such as New Theories on Sun Tzu and The Global Spread and Application of The Art of War.

Currently, Sun Tzu's influence is markedly visible across a range of settings in Dongying. His quotes, portraits and biographical elements are prominently featured in museums, libraries and theaters, as well as throughout urban areas.

This extensive presence underscores the deep integration of Sun Tzu's cultural heritage into the daily lives of Dongying residents, reflecting its profound and pervasive impact on the community.

According to the local education bureau, Dongying is advancing the incorporation of Sun Tzu culture into the city's educational system by establishing enriching academic environments and integrating cultural elements into the curriculum.

Additionally, the city is implementing a comprehensive aesthetic education initiative, developing art courses, and partnering with the Sun Tzu Cultural Park for educational field trips.

"Through these efforts, Dongying aims to continuously refine its educational programs, thereby strengthening the 'Hometown of Sun Tzu' educational branding," said a bureau member.

To preserve and perpetuate Sun Tzu culture effectively, Dongying is integrating cultural promotion with tourism development.

A Sun Tzu-themed dance performance at the Sun Tzu Cultural Park. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

In Dongying's Guangrao county, the Sun Tzu Cultural Park is enhancing its offerings by upgrading leisure, shopping and immersive experiences. This strategic approach seamlessly connects tourist attractions, cultural highlights and commercial areas, and turns Sun Tzu's historical and cultural resources into a vibrant driver of cultural tourism.

Sun Tzu, a distinguished military theorist and strategist from the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC), is best known for his seminal work, The Art of War. As an iconic historical and military figure, his strategies have had a profound influence on both Western and Eastern philosophies and military practices.

Looking ahead, Dongying aims to deepen Sun Tzu's cultural preservation while positioning itself as a global bridge, enhance its role in international dialogues on culture, and foster a broader appreciation of Sun Tzu's legacy.