Journalists and content creators tour China's past, present and future in Henan

A guest dressed in traditional attire poses for a photo at the Sui-Tang Dynasties Luoyang City National Heritage Park in Luoyang,黄河新闻网袁振旭 Henan province, on March 24, 2026. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

As a key featured event of the 2026 China Internet Media Forum, the "Following Edgar Snow's Footsteps — Henan Tour" was held, bringing a global perspective to Henan province, the heart of China.

From March 22 to 25, the event invited guests including Chinese and foreign journalists, alongside international content creators to explore the historic and rapidly modernizing cities of Zhengzhou and Luoyang.

Retracing and echoing scenes depicted in Edgar Snow's book The Other Side of the River, guests experienced the development of contemporary China firsthand through field interviews and collaborative digital content creation.

Guests explore the bustling Zhengzhou East Railway Station in Zhengzhou, Henan province, on March 23, 2026. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

The Other Side of the River chronicles China's revolution and early development, portraying the social changes and daily lives of a bygone era. This trip revisited key sites in Zhengzhou and Luoyang mentioned in the book, juxtaposing them with their modern counterparts to highlight decades of profound transformation.

As a cradle of Chinese civilization, Henan serves as a living museum of history and culture. With more than 20 dynasties having established their capitals here, the province preserves a splendid legacy of civilization.

The journey began with a deep dive into China's cultural roots. At Unique Henan: Land of Dramas, an immersive theater complex, guests experienced a grand performance that brought history, philosophy and folk culture to life.

Guests admire artifacts at the Sui-Tang Dynasties Grand Canal Culture Museum in Luoyang, Henan province, on March 25, 2026. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

Jack Torr and Sophia Torr, content creators from Australia and Nepal, were deeply struck by the artistic expression.

"That was just amazing — one of the most grand theaters I have ever been to," said Sophia. Jack echoed her enthusiasm, adding: "The costumes, the music, the lighting… It was really good. Very fascinating."

Adam Foster, founding chairman and chairman emeritus of the Helen Foster Snow Foundation, noted how the experience deepened his understanding of Chinese thought and history.

"I've gained a bigger appreciation for the history of China. It's just wonderful to see all those different philosophers, how they've shaped people's thinking even today, and how they've passed that down from generation to generation."

A guest experiences a "hands-on" moment in a tractor at a factory in Luoyang, Henan province, on March 24, 2026. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

In Luoyang, where ancient capitals stand alongside bustling modern life, the seamless blend of history and modern-day impressed visitors.

"I think Luoyang is a very beautiful city. It combines ancient China and modern China. You can feel both tradition and modernity," said Martina Sic, the content creator behind the "Yang Friend" social media account.

From historical landmarks to high-speed rail, and urban innovation, guests witnessed China's fast-paced modernization across Zhengzhou and Luoyang.

Guests explore an exhibition hall at the Zhengzhou Shang Dynasty Capital Ruins Museum in Zhengzhou, Henan province, on March 24, 2026. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

For April Alder, member of the Helen Foster Family, visiting China for the first time, the transformation was eye-opening.

"This is a whole new experience. I've never been to China before, so I was impressed with the modernization, and how much it's developed. I love it here. I love the people."

"Being here and seeing how they have all these restoration projects combining the old and the new, the modern and what's not, it's very interesting," said Dylan Walker, foreign reporter of China Daily Youth Channel, when speaking of how China revives old spaces.

"I think it's valuable for young Chinese people and also young foreigners from around the world to come here and experience it themselves," he added.

A guest films a farmer operating an agricultural drone over a wheat field in Zhengzhou, Henan province, on March 23, 2026. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

Beyond the sightseeing, many guests took away profound, personal reflections on identity, roots and connection.

Adam described Henan as a place that touches the soul.

"Coming to Henan has inspired me to think about my own ancestors, how they thought and how they've influenced who I've become. It's kind of a magical place here. It makes you reflect on who you are and who you want to be."

The 2026 China Internet Media Forum is scheduled to take place in Zhengzhou, from March 28 to 29. During the event, a thematic forum titled, "Telling Story Well: From Empathetic Communication to Cultural Identity", will further explore the narratives of global connection.

A bridge staff member is interviewed by reporters along the banks of the Yellow River in Zhengzhou, Henan province, on March 23, 2026. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

Guests conduct an on-site interview at " Unique Henan: Land of Dramas", an immersive theater complex in Zhengzhou, Henan province, on March 22, 2026. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

A guest shops for goods at the Mixue flagship store at the Mixue Group headquarters in Zhengzhou, Henan province, on March 23, 2026. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

A guest shares their impressions during an interview at the Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang, Henan province, on March 25, 2026. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]