Qian Xiaodong, deputy head of the publicity department of the Zhangjiagang Party committee, adds: "The cultural relics selected for the exhibition represent the ancient trade, culture and art exchanges between China and the West, offering visitors the chance to appreciate the development of Yangtze River civilizations and better understand the history of the Silk Road."

Another highlight of the festival is the Small Theater Art Season, which comprises 12 performances by troupes from Beijing, Shanghai and Nanjing which are being held at the Xinghai Theater and the Poly Grand Theater in Zhangjiagang through Sunday.

"The repertoires selected for the small theater not only include traditional folk operas, but also dramas that cater to audiences of different ages and cultures," says Li Zhongying, deputy director of the sports, radio, television and tourism bureau of Zhangjiagang.

Other activities such as the 8th Yangtze River Valley Folk Art Festival and a series of related cultural forums will also be held during the festival.

About 66 new projects worth 32.9 billion yuan ($4.7 billion) will also be signed during Zhangjiagang Business Week, which is taking place concurrently with the festival. Besides having a vibrant arts and cultural scene, Zhangjiagang has also been gaining a reputation as an attractive destination for foreign investment. Since implementing its comprehensive opening-up strategy, the city has become home to 1,000 foreign-backed enterprises with a cumulative investment of more than $20 billion.