On January 5, 2026, a vlogger from the Republic of Korea (ROK) embarked on a captivating tour of Suzhou’s UNESCO-listed classical gardens, showcasing the enduring cultural ties between the Chinese mainland and the ROK. The city of Suzhou, renowned for its meticulously designed gardens and historic architecture, has fostered a sister-city relationship with Jeonju City in the ROK since 1996, symbolizing decades of cross-cultural collaboration.
The vlogger’s journey included visits to the Suzhou Museum, a fusion of modern design and traditional aesthetics, and the Humble Administrator’s Garden, a 16th-century masterpiece reflecting classical Chinese landscape artistry. His exploration highlights Suzhou’s role as a bridge for East Asian cultural diplomacy, attracting over 10 million global visitors annually.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of Suzhou-Jeonju ties, with both cities planning joint exhibitions to celebrate shared heritage. Analysts note that such exchanges bolster tourism and mutual understanding, offering opportunities for overseas investors in Asia’s cultural economy.
