Participants wave their hands to the camera at the event. [Photo/Hangzhou Daily]

The 2025 International (Hangzhou) Trailwalk Festival kicked off on Dec 6 at the Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City in Yuhang district, with 10,000 participants exploring one of China's oldest cradles of civilization on foot.

The festival featured three themed routes showcasing local nature and history. The 5-kilometer leisure route was set within the Liangzhu ruins park, offering an accessible, family-friendly walk through millennia-old cultural landscapes.

The 15-km challenge route follows the nearly 2,000-year-old Pingyao ancient town's old streets and folk villages, blending exercise with local life, while the 25-km elite route stretchs along the Tiaoxi River and Beihu reed wetlands, complemented by various cultural performances.

At the finish point, a cultural fair welcomed walkers with more than 50 stalls offering local snacks and specialties, along with areas for rest, recovery and cultural interaction. Participants also received consumption coupons and a travel recommendation card to encourage further exploration of Liangzhu and Pingyao.

A bird's-eye view of the Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City. [Photo/Hangzhou Daily]