The first batch of five autonomous region-level archaeological site parks in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region was officially inaugurated on Saturday at an event for the Cultural and Natural Heritage Day, marking a new step in the region's archaeological site protection and revitalization.
The five sites include the first Neolithic site discovered in central Xizang. Another showcases the hunting culture of ancient lake-shore communities on the plateau.
Xizang will continue to improve site protection, educational tours, archaeological research, and the construction of public facilities to ensure that archaeological research benefits the public, said Sun Dan, an official with the regional cultural heritage bureau.
China's central government has long attached great importance to protecting cultural resources in Xizang. For instance, China has invested over 110 million yuan (about 16.15 million U.S. dollars) in a conservation and utilization project focused on ancient manuscripts, including the palm-leaf manuscripts of the Potala Palace, according to the region's cultural heritage administration.
In January this year, local cultural and tourism authorities announced that in the fourth national census of cultural relics, Xizang had newly identified 3,346 heritage sites, ranking among the top regions nationwide for new discoveries.
Xizang inaugurates archaeological site parks
Stepping into cinemas to share the excitement with fellow supporters and experience the matches with movie-level sound and visuals have become a new trend in watching the ongoing FIFA World Cup in China.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off on Thursday at Mexico City's Azteca Stadium. This edition, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, features 48 teams and 104 matches for the first time ever.
In Shanghai, one cinema is offering fans an immersive viewing experience with a giant screen, surround sound and spacious seating.
"Today was my first time watching a match at a domestic theater, and it's nothing like watching at home. The screen is small at home, and you don't have companions right beside you to share the excitement. I really enjoy the big screen and the atmosphere of watching with more people together," said Zhu Guanghu, former head coach of the Chinese men's team.
Meanwhile, Beijing cinemas have also drawn crowds. Fans cheered for their favorite teams at a popularity board before kickoff, while inside, a massive 4K screen with 120-frame playback made them feel as if they were in the stadium.
"Having the chance to watch matches together offline on weekends is a special experience. At the moment the goal was scored, everyone cheered together. It's a good way to relieve stress," said a fan surnamed Zhao. As of present, China Film Group and Huaxia Film have provided live-broadcast technology and operational support to more than 1,200 cinemas nationwide, covering over 150 cities including Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou.
These cinemas will screen more than 60 matches during the tournament, bringing the World Cup atmosphere to audiences across the country.
The global football showcase is scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19.
Fans flock to cinemas across China for World Cup screenings
