The 14th China Xu Xiake International Tourism Festival kicks off in Jiangyin, East China's Jiangsu province, on May 16. [Photo/WeChat account: wuxishilvyouju]

The 14th China Xu Xiake International Tourism Festival kicked off on May 16 in the newly-built Jiucaigang Park, Jiangyin, known as the hometown of Xu Xiake.

Xu Xiake, dubbed the Saint of Travel, was a Chinese travel writer and geographer during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) best known for his famous geographical treatise and noted for his bravery and humility. He traveled around China for more than 30 years, documenting his travels extensively.

A total of 20 events will be held during the tourism festival, including a symposium on Xu Xiake, food feasts, exhibitions from Jiangyin Museum and hiking events.

During the opening ceremony, China Yangtze River Culture Hotel Alliance is set up in Jiangyin. [Photo/WeChat account: wuxishilvyouju]

According to Jiangyin Party Secretary Chen Jinhu, the total amount of visits to Jiangyin reached 17.89 million in 2018, bringing in a tourism revenue of 31.7 billion yuan ($4.58 billion).

The newly-opened Jiucaigang Park is a brand new landmark in Jiangyin, which is part of the 8km-long Binjiang Park along the Yangtze River.

During the opening ceremony, China Yangtze River Culture Hotel Alliance was set up, aiming to build hotel platforms to promote culture along the Yangtze River.