“Peace and prosperity” – Anji in Zhejiang has long carried this auspicious meaning.

Twenty years ago, an idea born here profoundly influenced China. On August 15, 2005, during an inspection in Yu Village, Anji, a visionary concept was introduced: “Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets.”

Guided by this forward-thinking philosophy, the people of Yu Village worked to restore their ecosystem, bringing back clear waters and green mountains. This effort unlocked the door to sustainable economic growth, paving a green development path that combines ecological beauty with public prosperity.

This small mountain village serves as a window into profound reflections on ecological progress. It was emphasized: “Ecological conservation is a strategic national priority. For China’s development, we must advance ecological civilization.”

Ecological progress was integrated into China’s Five-Sphere Integrated Plan alongside economic, political, cultural, and social development. In May 2018, a national conference on ecological and environmental protection formally established a guiding ideology on ecological civilization. Over the years, the concept of “lucid waters and lush mountains” has gained widespread recognition, launching the world’s largest ecological initiative.

Today, China resonates with a symphony of harmony between humanity and nature.

Anji

Anji, a county in Zhejiang Province, China, is renowned for its lush bamboo forests, which inspired the famous film *Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon*. With a history dating back over 1,800 years, it is also known as the “Hometown of Bamboo” and is a center for traditional bamboo craftsmanship and eco-tourism. The area’s natural beauty, including the Anji Bamboo Sea and Tianhuangping Dam, attracts visitors seeking scenic landscapes and cultural heritage.

Yu Village

Yu Village (余村) is a picturesque rural village in Anji County, Zhejiang Province, China, renowned for its lush bamboo forests and eco-friendly development. It gained prominence in 2005 when President Xi Jinping praised its sustainable “Green Mountains are Gold Mountains” development model, transitioning from mining to eco-tourism. Today, it symbolizes China’s commitment to environmental conservation and rural revitalization.

Zhejiang

Zhejiang is a coastal province in eastern China, known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. It was a key center of ancient Yue civilization and later became a prosperous region during the Song Dynasty (960–1279), famous for its silk production, tea, and scholarly traditions. Today, Zhejiang is home to UNESCO World Heritage sites like the West Lake in Hangzhou and the historic water towns such as Wuzhen.