The 22nd Linyi Calligraphy Culture Festival opened at the Former Residence of Wang Xizhi, a legendary calligrapher and scholar of the Eastern Jin Dynasty (317-420), on Sept 22.

Linyi, the hometown of Wang Xizhi, has hosted the festival 22 times since 2003, inviting the public to experience tradition up close. This year's opening marks a return to the sage's former residence after 15 years, adding deeper historical significance.

At the ceremony, guests enjoyed performances and a documentary. Representatives from eight calligraphy cities — Xuzhou, Kaifeng, Anyang, Hangzhou, Shaoxing, Xiangtan, Xiangyang, and Linyi — jointly issued an initiative to promote cultural exchange through calligraphy.

A campaign welcoming 10,000 Yangtze River Delta tourists to the sage's hometown was also launched, aiming to boost cultural tourism.

The 6th National Calligraphy Conference saw over 100 calligraphers and enthusiasts recreate classic works like Lanting Xu (Preface to the Orchid Pavilion). Cultural creative products blending tradition and innovation were also displayed.

Running until Oct 21, the festival includes 23 supporting events across three major sections: calligraphy exhibitions, cultural tourism experiences, and cultural consumption. All exhibitions are open to the public, embodying the festival's commitment to inclusivity.

The 22nd Linyi Calligraphy Culture Festival opens at the Former Residence of Wang Xizhi. [Photo by Liu Chuan/chinadaily.com.cn]

Calligraphers and enthusiasts recreate classic works at the 6th National Calligraphy Conference. [Photo by Liu Chuan/chinadaily.com.cn]

A girl practices calligraphy at the 22nd Linyi Calligraphy Culture Festival. [Photo by Liu Chuan/chinadaily.com.cn]