All the audience joined in the countdown until brilliant fireworks shot into the sky, turning the lights on this year's Shichahai Tourism Festival. Big shots from the Chinese mainland entertainment scene were invited to give performances. A distinct Beijing flavor lingered over almost all numbers, from songs and dances to Peking opera and fashion shows displaying traditional clothes. And all of these brilliant performances were in honor of the one and only ancient yet trendy Shichahai.

Lying at the heart of the city, Shichahai is the only scenic spot in the capital boasting wide expanses of water.

Shichahai became the commercial center of the city in the Yuan Dynasty about 700 years ago. A witness to the great changes transforming Beijing over the centuries, Shichahai bears traces of the capital's past.

The site is a magnet for young visitors and overseas history-fans.

During the two-month festival, tourists will be able to enjoy the ancient area's natural charm and discover ancient temples, celebrities' former residences, hutongs and many other places of interest.

(CCTV.com September 12, 2003)