Opening of the Exhibition “Treasures of the Orient: Famous Gardens of Beijing – The Ancient Gardens of Beijing”
On the morning of September 11, 2009, a major cultural event took place at the world heritage site of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi, Vietnam. The opening ceremony of the exhibition “Treasures of the Orient: Famous Gardens of Beijing” was held. The exhibition was part of the activities within the framework of the cooperation agreement between the Thang Long – Hanoi Heritage Conservation Center and the Beijing Park Management Center. It was also the result of close collaboration between the two cities, demonstrating the long-standing friendship between Hanoi and Beijing—two capitals that share many cultural and historical similarities.
The exhibition “Treasures of the Orient: Famous Gardens of Beijing” is not merely a cultural exchange activity, but also a bridge between Vietnam and China, two nations with ancient civilizations. Through this exhibition, the Vietnamese people, especially the youth, will have the opportunity to gain deeper insights into the famous ancient gardens of Beijing, living spaces that were built over centuries and preserve unique cultural values. This event not only provides an opportunity to explore the rich culture and art of the East but also strengthens the historical and cultural connection between the two countries.
The exhibition features more than 100 photographs showcasing 11 representative historical and cultural parks, as well as the Chinese Garden Museum. Among these are four world heritage sites: the Summer Palace, the Temple of Heaven, Jingshan Park, and Zhongshan Park. These historic gardens not only highlight the beautiful landscapes of Beijing but also reflect the traditional culture and style of the Chinese capital.
Along with the opening ceremony of the exhibition “Treasures of the Orient: Famous Gardens of Beijing,” the signing ceremony for the 2025 Cooperation Plan between the Thang Long – Hanoi Heritage Conservation Center and the Beijing Park Management Center took place. Additionally, a letter of intent for cooperation was signed between the Management Board of the Co Loa Relic Site and the Management Board of the Summer Palace in Beijing. This event attracted considerable public attention, alongside the participation of leaders from various agencies, historians, cultural and art researchers, media outlets, and history enthusiasts. A representative from the Thang Long – Hanoi Heritage Conservation Center emphasized the importance of this exhibition in preserving and promoting cultural values in the modern context, noting that the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long has become, and will continue to be, a hub for outstanding cultural values. It serves as a place where future generations can learn, absorb, and preserve these precious artistic and historical values. The representative also expressed the hope for expanded cooperation with the Beijing Park Management Center in various fields in the future.
The exhibition “Treasures of the Orient: Famous Gardens of Beijing” at the world heritage site of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is not only an opportunity to explore the beauty of traditional Eastern garden architecture but also a chance to strengthen the friendship between the two nations. This event promises to be a memorable cultural highlight of 2024, serving as a bridge between the past and the present, between heritage and the people of both countries. The exhibition will take place from September 11, 2024, with opening hours from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience the unique features that the exhibition has to offer.
(Some images from the Opening Ceremony of the Exhibition and the Signing of the Cooperation Agreement)
The editorial board
