Officials and experts from cultural circles in Shanxi and Taiwan shared ideas in a cross-Strait cultural exchange event in Taiyuan on July 6.

Zhang Fuming, vice-governor of Shanxi province, said at the opening ceremony that Shanxi has preserved the primitive Chinese culture of Shennong, which is rooted in the heart of Taiwan compatriots. He hoped the guests from Taiwan can experience the ancient culture and the hospitality of people in the province during the event and promote further cultural exchanges.

Zhou Rongsheng, head of the delegation from Taiwan, expressed his gratitude for getting the chance to experience local customs and the splendid culture of Chinese civilization.

Zhou stated that “Friendship Journey” events, which gain more attention from cultural circles, have become a spiritual homeland for people on both sides of the Strait. He also expected more exchange activities of this kind in the future.

"The first ‘Friendship Journey’ event between the mainland and Taiwan was held in 2001 amid many challenges and difficulties, now the situation has improved a lot,” Ding Wei, vice-minister of Culture, said at the opening ceremony.

Ding also highlighted the important role of “Friendship Journey” events in bridging the heart of cross-Strait compatriots through cultural activities.

As a brand of cross-Strait cultural exchange with far-reaching influence, this year’s “Friendship Journey” event was hosted by the China Friendship Association of Cultural Circles and the People’s Government of Shanxi Province, and will go for 10 days.