Tea and Harmony Event in Washington, Chicago Draws 700

Tea and Harmony: Chinese Culture and Tourism Event Draws 700 in Washington and Chicago

From April 22 to 27, 2026, the “Tea and Harmony” Yaji — a Chinese culture and tourism promotion program — traveled to the United States, with events held successively in Washington, D.C., and Chicago. The tour was co-hosted by the China Association for International Cultural Exchange, the Embassy of China in the United States and the Consulate General of China in Chicago, and organized by the China Center for International Cultural and Tourism Exchange. It paired an elegant gathering of traditional arts with the “Nihao! China” national tourism campaign.

Tea at the Heart of an Elegant Gathering

Yaji, meaning “elegant gathering,” is a long-standing Chinese tradition of bringing together the refined arts. Using tea as its centerpiece, the program featured live demonstrations of the guqin (the seven-stringed zither), the incense ceremony, flower arrangement and tai chi — all recognized intangible cultural heritage — together with a musical dialogue between Chinese and Western instruments. The performances showcased the depth of traditional Chinese culture while building a bridge for China-U.S. people-to-people exchange.

Three Iconic Venues, Nearly 700 Guests

The gatherings took place at the Chinese Embassy in Washington, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art, and the Zhou Brothers Art Center in Chicago. Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng and Consul General in Chicago Wang Baodong delivered remarks, joined by nearly 700 guests from Chinese and American cultural institutions, art lovers and representatives of the overseas Chinese community.

Immersive Encounters With China

A “Nihao! China” tourism display and interactive cultural spaces drew enthusiastic crowds at every stop. American visitors lingered over cups of tea in the tasting area, explored the incense experience zone, and told organizers about their hopes of traveling to China. Local media and cultural leaders responded warmly, praising the program for bringing the charm of Eastern culture within reach.

The two-city tour closed with widespread acclaim, adding a fresh chapter to cultural exchange between China and the United States.

Source: https://www.badouart.com/27356.html