On March 29, Carl Decaluwe, governor of West Flanders Province, Belgium, visited the Shenyang Imperial Palace in Liaoning Province. Smitten by the site at first sight, he spontaneously stepped into the role of a “recommendation officer” for Shenyang’s tourism. “European tourists often choose Beijing and Shanghai when visiting China,” Decaluwe noted. “But I strongly suggest they come and see Shenyang. It’s a city where the classical and the modern coexist, possessing a truly unique charm.”

A rainy stroll through the palace offered a unique poetic atmosphere. Embracing the experience, Decaluwe dressed himself in traditional Qing Dynasty attire to capture photos of this memorable journey. During his visit, local children eagerly approached him with warm greetings, and posed for snapshots together.

Decaluwe also explored architectural landmarks such as the Dazheng Hall and the Phoenix Tower, diving into the palace’s unique structural characteristics and its history. He showed a keen interest in the intricate painted patterns within the buildings, and even gave a warm embrace to a bronze crouching deer statue in the courtyard. “I absolutely love the Shenyang Imperial Palace,” he remarked. “Its profound history and aesthetic value are both breathtaking!”