Hong Kong's Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po speaks at the 'Journey Through Civilizations World Tour' at Hong Kong Palace Museum on Sept 29, 2023. (CALVIN NG / CHINA DAILY)

HONG KONG – An exhibition presenting 10 prominent archaeological sites showcasing Chinese civilization, including the renowned Sanxingdui Ruins, arrived in Hong Kong and Macao on Friday as part of its global tour. 

The "Journey Through Civilizations World Tour" global exhibition utilizes cutting-edge digital technology and interactive elements to showcase Chinese culture. Its Hong Kong and Macao stop was hosted by the Asia-Pacific headquarters of China Central Radio and Television Station on Friday.

The global exhibition, spanning one month, will be held in Hong Kong and Macao. After today, visitors can engage in offline interaction at the Patriotic Education Center in Hong Kong and the Love the Country, Love Macao Educational Base for the Youth in Macao.

Having already toured worldwide, the exhibition is expected to attract numerous visitors who are eager to explore the fascinating story of China, said Paul Chan

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the exhibition in Hong Kong, Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po highlighted the significant role played by Hong Kong and Macao in promoting Chinese culture and effectively narrating the story of China.

Chan stressed the importance of nurturing a deeper understanding of Chinese culture among Hong Kong's youth to foster a sense of pride and national identity. He said the enduring nature of the Chinese civilization distinguishes it from the three other major civilizations (Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus valley) in human history. 

Chan also expressed his belief that the Hong Kong and Macao special exhibition would provide residents and tourists with a vivid experience of the rich and diverse heritage of Chinese civilization. Having already toured worldwide, the exhibition is expected to attract numerous visitors who are eager to explore the fascinating story of China, he added.

Henry Tang Ying-yen, chairman of the Board of the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority, said that Hong Kong, as a cosmopolitan city, embraces a fusion of traditional Chinese culture and diverse cultural influences, creating its own distinct identity.

Tang highlighted the essence of progress in civilizations, which lies in the exchange and mutual development of cultural values. Leveraging the advantages of the "one country, two systems" framework, Hong Kong's open and inclusive environment enables people from different backgrounds to appreciate Chinese culture while also facilitating the dissemination of Chinese cultural values on the global stage. 

He said the exhibition serves as an ideal platform for showcasing and fostering cultural exchanges and mutual development between China and other places.

Henry Tang Ying-yen, chairman of West Kowloon Cultural District Authority Board, speaks at the 'Journey Through Civilizations World Tour' on Sept 29, 2023. (CALVIN NG / CHINA DAILY)

In a video address, Vice Minister of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and President and Editor-in-Chief of China Media Group (CMG) Shen Haixiong described the exhibition as an exploration of traditional Chinese culture. 

He said through innovative digital technologies, visitors are transported through time, and can immerse themselves in the ancient and contemporary aspects of Chinese civilization, gaining insights into the early pulse of the 5,000-year-long Chinese history.

A student asks a question at the 'Journey Through Civilizations World Tour' at Hong Kong Palace Museum on Sept 29, 2023. (CALVIN NG / CHINA DAILY)

An official (right) explains the exhibition to a resident during the 'Journey Through Civilizations World Tour' at Hong Kong Palace Museum on Sept 29, 2023. (CALVIN NG / CHINA DAILY)

Ao Ieong-u, secretary for Social Affairs and Culture in Macao, said the exhibition, hosted at the Love the Country, Love Macao Educational Base for Young People in Macao, aims to provide an enlightening educational experience by showcasing the 5,000 years of Chinese historical and cultural heritage.

Yeung Hoi-yan, a student from Pui Kiu Middle School, who attended the exhibition, told China Daily that she had been profoundly impressed by the interactive games, which allowed visitors to immerse themselves in, and gain a meaningful understanding of, Chinese culture. Additionally, students had the opportunity to ask questions at the scene via an online call with an archaeologist to learn more about the stories behind the cultural relics.