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An aerial view of Sanwan ecological park along the Grand Canal in southern Yangzhou [Photo/yznews.cn]
Sanwan, an ecological park sitting along the Grand Canal in southern Yangzhou, launched a photography competition on April 15, inviting people from all walks of life to capture the park's spring beauty.
The photos, which should be imbued with creativity and uniqueness, can focus on the Grand Canal's tranquil natural beauty, rich culture, or dynamic and vigorous atmosphere.
A group of press and professional photographers from across the country were also invited to the launching ceremony. Their eyes will be opened as they discover Sanwan through the lenses of their cameras.
It's almost impossible to imagine that Sanwan, now the ecological center and distinct environmental trademark of Yangzhou, was once a shabby, crowded urban village. Its magical transformation perfectly highlights Yangzhou's recent environmental efforts.
According to one of Sanwan's directors, the park covers an area of over 3,300 mu (220 hectares) and cost a total of 5.75 billion yuan ($915.16 million).
The park completed its first phase of renovation work last September, which involved reinforcing its wetland resources, shutting down major corporate polluters, and enhancing rain and sewage diversion systems. Since the renovation was completed, the park has received over one million visitors.
With a harmonious balance of rivers, mountains and various traditional Chinese gardens, Sanwan is now the "green urban lung" of Yangzhou, providing local residents with a diverse array of leisure, sightseeing, and fitness possibilities.
According to experts, Sanwan is now planning its second phase of renovation, which will transform the park into a huge recreational complex including hotels, commercial streets, folk art museums, sports fields, amusement parks, campsites, and boat museums. Moreover, a 5.5-kilometer track for mountain bikes will also be built, catering to international competition standards.
A designer's sketch of Sanwan ecological park at night. [Photo/yznews.cn]
