Chongqing - Nestled in Chongqing's northeastern pocket, Wuxi County stands out as a breathtaking tourist allure. On September 10, seven distinguished guests convened at the Lanying Grand Canyon to discuss the strides Wuxi has made in its ecotourism sector.

Chinese and Foreign Youth Dialogue Interviews takes place in Wuxi County, Chongqing, September 10, 2023. (Photo/Land-sea International News Center)

Revitalizing the grilled fish legacy 

Branded as the "birthplace of grilled fish," Wuxi County has always captivated both locals and visitors with its unique culinary charm. 

Yu Xiaoyan, deputy director of the Wuxi County Culture and Tourism Committee, delved into the rich tapestry behind Wuxi's grilled fish. She recounted how Wuxi, once a preeminent salt city in China, witnessed its boatmen—transporting salt along the Daning River—craft the iconic Wuxi Grilled Fish. Employing ingredients readily available to them, the recipe soon gained national and international acclaim.

Yu Xiaoyan, deputy director of the Wuxi County Culture and Tourism Committee, shares her views at the Chinese and Foreign Youth Dialogue Interviews in Wuxi County, Chongqing, September 10, 2023. (Photo/Land-sea International News Center)

In reverence to its culinary roots, the Daning Ancient City's Dandan Road has morphed into a grilled fish-centric avenue, championing the Wuxi grilled fish heritage. Envisioning the future, Huang Yongjun highlighted plans to launch a centralized kitchen for grilled fish on Mantan Road to streamline production and ensure quality control.

Huang Yongjun shares her views at the Chinese and Foreign Youth Dialogue Interviews in Wuxi County, Chongqing, September 10, 2023. (Photo/Land-sea International News Center)

Wuxi's recent efforts underline an emphasis on nurturing expertise within the grilled fish industry. They've rapidly advanced a cohesive ecosystem that encompasses the Wuxi Grilled Fish Research Institute, training facilities, and a trade center dedicated to grilled fish commodities. 

Luo Sineng, who worksin Daning Ancient Town, proposed, "By merging the grilled fish industry with the pre-prepared food sector, we aim to fast-track the inception and adoption of pre-packaged grilled fish products."

Luo Sineng, who worksin Daning Ancient Town, shares his views at the Chinese and Foreign Youth Dialogue Interviews in Wuxi County, Chongqing, September 10, 2023. (Photo/Land-sea International News Center)

Eco-focused evolution

Lojain suliman from Syria studying in the Chongqing University, visibly enthralled by the vistas, remarked, "The pristine surroundings are truly unexpected! Such conscientious environmental preservation is commendable."

Lojain suliman,  from Syria studying in the Chongqing University, shares her views at the Chinese and Foreign Youth Dialogue Interviews in Wuxi County, Chongqing, September 10, 2023. (Photo/Land-sea International News Center)

Showcasing Wuxi's natural splendors, Liu Yuanhui, deputy director of the Wuxi County Forestry Bureau, highlighted attractions like the Yintiao Ridge, Lanying Grand Canyon, Daning River, and Hongchi Dam. Liu attributes the burgeoning popularity of Wuxi grilled fish to the pristine environment and organically sourced ingredients.

Liu Yuanhui, deputy director of the Wuxi County Forestry Bureau, shares his views at the Chinese and Foreign Youth Dialogue Interviews in Wuxi County, Chongqing, September 10, 2023. (Photo/Land-sea International News Center)

Tuo Zhan, an official with the Wuxi County Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, spotlighted how Wuxi's unwavering commitment to sustainable practices capitalizes on its innate resources. This focus has spurred the growth of niche sectors, like potato cultivation, medicinal herbs, and tea.

Tuo Zhan, an official with the Wuxi County Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, shares his views at the Chinese and Foreign Youth Dialogue Interviews in Wuxi County, Chongqing, September 10, 2023. (Photo/Land-sea International News Center)

Wang Yongqianga, professor at the Sichuan International Studies University, accentuated that beyond refining infrastructure and elevating the tourism experience, it's imperative to champion humanistic eco-tourism ideals. He advocated for environmentally-conscious, sustainable green tourism strategies, reimagining Wuxi as an idyllic haven for both residents and visitors.

Wang Yongqiang, professor at the Sichuan International Studies University, shares his views at the Chinese and Foreign Youth Dialogue Interviews in Wuxi County, Chongqing, September 10, 2023. (Photo/Land-sea International News Center)