Two Chinese cities have earned international recognition for their cultural contributions as UNESCO expands its Creative Cities Network. Quanzhou in Fujian Province and Wuxi in Jiangsu Province joined 56 other cities worldwide in receiving the designation on World Cities Day, reinforcing Asia's growing influence in global cultural preservation and innovation.
Known as the 'City of Light' for its historic role in maritime trade, Quanzhou secured the Creative City of Gastronomy title through its 1,000-year culinary legacy blending Fujianese flavors with overseas influences. Meanwhile, Wuxi – home to China's earliest professional music schools – claimed the Creative City of Music distinction, celebrated for nurturing traditional Chinese instruments and hosting international festivals.
The UNESCO recognition highlights both cities' strategies to leverage cultural assets for sustainable urban development. Analysts suggest the designations could boost cultural tourism while creating new opportunities in creative industries ranging from food technology to digital music platforms.
This development brings China's total UNESCO Creative Cities to 15, reflecting the country's increasing emphasis on cultural soft power. The network now includes 350 cities across 100 countries and regions working to achieve the UN's Sustainable Development Goals through cultural innovation.
