Nestled in Yibin City, Sichuan Province, the Xingwen UNESCO Global Geopark captivates visitors with its otherworldly karst formations – a labyrinth of stone forests, cavernous sinkholes, and subterranean rivers sculpted over millennia. This geological marvel has been selected as one of four sub-venues for China’s 2026 Spring Festival Gala, scheduled for February 17, where it will collaborate with Beijing’s main stage to deliver cultural performances.
The geopark’s inclusion highlights China’s commitment to blending natural heritage with cultural storytelling. Local authorities note that advanced projection mapping will transform its limestone pillars into dynamic backdrops for traditional dances and musical acts, offering a technological twist to Lunar New Year celebrations.
Tourism analysts predict the exposure could boost visitor numbers to Sichuan’s often-overlooked southern regions, while geologists emphasize the site’s scientific value in studying subtropical karst ecosystems. With preparations underway, the event marks a strategic fusion of ecological preservation and cultural diplomacy ahead of the 2026 travel season.
