As this year is designated as the ASEAN-China year of people-to-people exchanges, An Encounter with the Chinese Civilization — Quanzhou, the Heart of the Maritime Silk Road was held on Friday at Beijing Language and Culture University in Beijing.

Hosted by the ASEAN-China Centre, World Affairs Press, Foreign Affairs Office of Fujian provincial government, Quanzhou government and the Beijing Language and Culture University, the cultural event attracted about 120 students from the ASEAN countries studying at the university to try their hands on the intangible cultural heritage in Quanzhou, East China's Fujian province.

"It is hoped that through our event, the continuous endeavors of Quanzhou over the past decades to preserve, appreciate and transfer its cultural and historical treasure in the modern times will be demonstrated to the young generation," Shi Zhongjun, secretary-general of the ASEAN-China Centre, said at the event.

As the starting point of the Maritime Silk Road, Quanzhou has played a significant role as the major route for dialogue and exchange among peoples and cultures.

As Friday marks World Tourism Day, Yao Fei, vice-mayor of the city, welcomes people from around the world to go to Quanzhou and enjoy the atmosphere of the streets and alleys that connect the city's past and future.

"In Quanzhou, you don't need travel plans, but just slow your pace, embrace a relaxed journey. It is the city to visit in your lifetime," Yao said.