China brings cultural feast to Berlin

Chinese dancers wearing traditional costumes perform during the opening ceremony of "Experience China" culture event in Berlin, Germany, on May. 17, 2015. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)

BERLIN, May 17 (Xinhua) -- For anyone who is curious about Chinese culture, the coming two weeks in Berlin must not be missed. Starting on Sunday, a series of events will be held in the German capital, providing a fabulous display of Chinese culture and inviting local citizens and tourists to experience a colorful China.

A festival of Chinese cuisine unveiled the two-week long showcase called "Experience China" on Sunday. First rate chefs from Chengdu, Sichuan Province served some 200 guests with exotic dishes and dim sum that represented traditional culinary art from the oriental country.

"Culinary art is an important component of Chinese culture," said Shi Mingde, Chinese Ambassador to Germany, adding that China is willing to strengthen culture exchange with Germany and to help German public know China comprehensively and deeply.

In the coming days, artists and masters from China will bring a feast of culture with dances, music, handicrafts and picture exhibitions, carnival parade, forum, movies, etc.

Highlights will include a presentation of intangible cultural and art treasures like face changing in Sichuan Opera, acrobatics, puppetry, embroidery and papercutting.

With vivid performances, 11 Kung Fu masters will show the audience their understanding of Chinese martial art and the spirit of warriors. Artists from Hunan Province will also demonstrate dances and music of Chinese minority ethnic groups in Maritim Hotel in central Berlin.

In the Gardens of the World in eastern Berlin, 43 panda sculptures will be displayed from May 21 to 23, waiting for visitors to communicate with the Chinese mascots.

During May 22 and 27, a Chinese Film Week will be held in Babylon Cinema of Berlin, screening movies about modern China and the country's fairy tales.

On May 24, when Berlin celebrates its annual world cultural carnival, 30 waist drum dancers from Ansai, Shanxi Province will join the parade and show the vigor of western China.

Beside cultural events, experts and officials from Beijing will also attend a forum focusing on smart city on May 19 and share the Chinese capital's experience in metropolis development, urban planning and city history protection.

"With a wide variety of contents, 'Experience China' brings a feast of culture to Berlin and offers an opportunity for Berliners to see and hear China closely," said Zhang Yanbin, Director General of the State Council Information Office of China.

According to him, the event "Experience China" has been held in more than 30 countries since 1999 and in Berlin for three times.

This year, the event is held in the framework of Berlin's Asia-Pacific Weeks and is co-organized by the State Council Information Office of China and Chinese Embassy in Germany.