Spring-time harmony lures visitors
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It may be summer, but visitors entering Hunan's Shanghai World Expo pavilion are finding themselves in an endless spring.
The pavilion is inspired by poet Tao Yuanming's "Peach Blossom Spring." Written circa AD 400, the fictional poem references a paradisial valley located near Wuling in Hunan province.
"We wanted to symbolize the harmony between humans and nature," said Li Pei, director of Hunan Sub-council of China Council for the Promotion of International Trade.
Bamboo, hibiscus flowers, and Wulingyuan scenery dot the pavilion, creating a cozy and eco-friendly feel.
It is the perfect environment in which to showcase China's contributions to modern culture, said Li.
Featured among the pavilion's exhibits is the ancient art of papermaking, pioneered by Cai Lun (AD 50-121).
Visitors can also enjoy the whimsical watercolors of Qi Baishi and learn about hybrid rice.
First created by agricultural scientist Yuan Longping in the 1970s, hybrid rice is now grown in dozens of famine prone regions across the globe.
"Hunan has a vibrant culture. The Expo offers a unique platform for the province to showcase its strength in this regard," said Li.
In a visitor's book near the door of a World Expo pavilion, Taiwan's People's First Party Chairman James Soong wrote, "I am a proud person of Hunan."
His words are among the many feelings expressed by those who've viewed Hunan province's architectural wonder. "Hunan is extremely beautiful," wrote one visitor. "Entering Hunan Pavilion, I feel at home," penned another.
Pavilion design
On July 13, the pavilion's daily visitor count topped 1 million. Crowds are drawn to the building's unique design, which utilizes a Mobius strip (or twisted cylinder).
Zhou Chutian, vice director of the Applied Research Institute of Art with Tsinghua University, lauded the pavilion for its "open and magical construction."
He also noted that it helped people visualize Hunan's topography."
The pavilion was inspired by "Peach Blossom Source," a story credited to Tao Yuanming (AD 365-427).
In the building's 600 sq m exhibition area, a 3D film showcases the long-cherished Chinese dream of entering paradise.
Visitors from around the world can also enjoy viewing a giant black tea brick, weighing in at 312.5 kg. The brick features a carving of Yuanming's poem.
A 2m red porcelain vase and scenic miniatures add to the pavilion's splendor. Among the miniatures are Shaoshan - the hometown of Chairman Mao - and Zhijiang, the site of a famous mausoleum.
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