A four-day photo exhibition on Chinese Rural Villages kicked off here on Tuesday under the theme "charm of heaven and earth."

The exhibition was jointly organized by the China Cultural Center in Nepal and three other Chinese institutions. A total of 100 photos of Chinese photographers have been displayed in the exhibition at the hall of Nepal Art Council, reflecting the rich geography, ethnicity, culture and lifestyle of Chinese people.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Vice Chancellor of Nepal Academy of Fine Arts K.K. Karmacharya appreciated the efforts of the Chinese government and people to preserve their art, culture and tradition. “At a time when ancient art, culture and ethnicity have been disappearing in the modern world, Chinese people have done an exemplary work by preserving the historical and cultural heritages,” Karmacharya said.

According to the organizer, the exhibition is curated in four sections namely idyllic landscape, beautiful countryside, ethnic and cultural heritage and residential buildings. The photos present regional scenery, dairy production, folk culture, ethnic customs and cultural relics showcasing the natural beauty and historical value of dozens of Chinese villages.

Nearly 200 visitors including students and professionals from different walks of life visited the exhibition on the opening day.

“The photo exhibition is quiet impressive. The most important thing is that the Chinese government and people have well maintained their ancestral heritage, which is the asset of the Chinese society,” Surendra Sitaula, founder of Bagmati School and College, told Xinhua after visiting the exhibition.

The exhibition will run from Wednesday till Saturday.