**Exploring High-Quality Development in Changzhou, Jiangsu: A City Brand in the Making**
During a recent meeting with representatives from Jiangsu at the 14th National People’s Congress, President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of innovation and the need to strengthen emerging industries. He called for enhancing the modern industrial system to promote high-quality development tailored to local conditions. Urban branding has become a crucial intangible asset for cities as they increasingly strive to highlight their unique resources to enhance attractiveness and competitiveness. So, how can cities like Changzhou play a pivotal role in advancing China’s modernization? Changzhou provides some compelling insights.
In recent years, Changzhou has been committed to preserving its roots and essence while accelerating the development of diverse and personalized expressions of city branding. Initiatives like the Grand Canal, “Youth Paradise,” and “City of New Energy” have invigorated the urban landscape, contributing dynamic momentum to the region’s high-quality social and economic development.
What makes Changzhou stand out?
**Revitalization of the Grand Canal in Changzhou**
A visit to the Su Dongpo Memorial Hall, located in the historical district of Changzhou, immerses one in rich cultural heritage. Right at the entrance, a bronze statue of Su Dongpo emanates serenity, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant wisteria. Su Dongpo visited Changzhou 14 times, finding a deep connection to this land, which marked the end of his life.
Historical records reveal that in the early Eastern Jin dynasty, Changzhou was relatively undeveloped. Yet, it flourished into a cultural hub, attracting notable scholars like Su Dongpo and Yang Shi, and nurturing influential literary schools. The Grand Canal’s section in Changzhou has shaped the city’s cultural landscape, embedding a rich heritage that celebrated its nickname “the Land of Eight Cities.”
President Xi pointed out that the Grand Canal is a precious cultural legacy that needs careful protection and innovative use. As we mark the 10th anniversary of the Grand Canal’s recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2024, Changzhou is actively implementing strategies for heritage preservation and cultural tourism that center around the canal’s legacy.
Efforts include ongoing projects to preserve key historical sites like the Confucius Temple, Yuan Yi Garden, and the residences of renowned figures. By creating vibrant cultural districts and focusing on integrating tourism with local cultural resources, Changzhou has set ambitious goals for cultural revitalization. The synergy between “city” and “canal” is being nurtured to sustain a thriving cultural brand.
**The Allure of “Youth Paradise”**
According to the China Performance Industry Association, the national performance market saw a record high of nearly 74 billion yuan in 2023. Concerts and music festivals are more popular than ever, providing an economic boost for tourism and local businesses.
In this context, Changzhou has emerged as a leader in the music festival scene, most notably with the Taihu Bay Music Festival, Manghe Music Festival, and the local NUTS Music Festival. In 2023, the city became a top ticket seller for large-scale music events, capturing over 32% of Jiangsu’s market share and 6.3% nationally.
To make its mark as “Youth Paradise,” Changzhou is committed to innovative and engaging promotions. The city has introduced comprehensive tourism initiatives, encouraging young people to participate in activities like “The Special Forces Travel” and Citywalks. Collaborations with local attractions aim to bolster attendance and integrate music fans into the broader cultural tourism chain.
Service improvements during major events, including increasing parking and providing free shuttle transportation, underscore the city’s dedication to visitor satisfaction. Furthermore, the emphasis on supplying tailored experiences, such as custom hotel packages, allows Changzhou to foster meaningful connections with attendees.
**Changzhou as the “City of New Energy”**
In Changzhou, a new era of green technology unfolds. With production facilities turning out electric vehicles and batteries at an astonishing pace, the city embodies China’s push toward sustainable industries.
In 2023, Changzhou produced 680,000 electric vehicles, contributing to a staggering output value of over 768 billion yuan in the new energy sector—accounting for nearly 99% of the city’s industrial growth. Changzhou’s focus on innovation within the renewable energy sector serves as a model for urban development rooted in current national strategies.
The city embraces its history of industrial growth and entrepreneurial spirit, transitioning from traditional industries to leading the charge in modern manufacturing. With efforts geared toward building a collaborative innovation ecosystem, Changzhou is strategically positioned to lead the green energy revolution, enhancing both the local and national economy.
**Lessons from Changzhou’s Urban Branding Journey**
Changzhou’s experience in carving out a distinctive urban brand highlights the profound connection between cultural heritage and modern development. The city’s branding strategy encompasses not only historical resonance but also adaptability to new economic paradigms.
President Xi’s emphasis on the Grand Canal as an enduring symbol of heritage informs Changzhou’s strategies to merge traditional culture with innovative practices. The city has mastered the art of creating compelling cultural tourism experiences while prioritizing the needs and expectations of its residents.
Looking ahead, as Changzhou moves forward with its urban branding, the focus must remain on people-centered development, ensuring that the local community plays an active role in shaping its narrative. This collaborative spirit is vital for sustaining the momentum of urban innovation and cultural pride.
In summary, Changzhou’s path toward becoming a remarkable urban brand demonstrates the fruitfulness of balancing tradition with innovation, engaging local citizens, and tapping into the energy of emerging industries to secure its place in China’s modern landscape.
