If you're planning a trip to China next summer for the Olympic Games, you might want to stop by the
ancient city of Kaifeng in Henan Province near Beijing, where you're
likely to see the city full of ancient Chinese.
A Kaifeng resident nicknamed Wu Huang has made a proposal on the
Internet, petitioning all of the city's 800,000 residents to wear
costumes of the Song Dynasty (960 - 1279) and speak the ancient
language during the Olympic season.
Under the plan, ancient scenes will recur in Kaifeng, the
capital of the Song Dynasty, with residents donning Song dress out
on the streets to greet incoming visitors.
The 36 year old Song culture fanatic explained that during the
international sports event, a large number of foreign spectators
will visit China. His plan is to encourage citizens to seize the
opportunity and do their part to promote Chinese culture.
Many citizens have voiced their support of the plan, saying it
will be a good way to introduce the city's long history.
Wu Huang has also reportedly spoken to officials from the city's
tourism bureau, who have expressed great interest in helping make
his dream come true.
(CRIENGLISH.com March 8, 2007)