Visitors try Ningbo delicacies at the festival. [Photo/Yongpai App]

A taste of Ningbo recently made its way to Bursa, Turkiye, bringing the flavors and cultural charm of the Chinese coastal city to one of Anatolia's best-known culinary destinations.

At the 5th International Bursa Gastronomy Festival, held from Sept 18 to 20, Ningbo was the only Chinese city invited to participate. Ningbo was the only Chinese city invited to participate. Local visitors flocked to its booth to sample traditional treats, including flaky layered pancake and crispy youzanzi (fried dough twists). For many, the food offered a delicious first glimpse of a city they had never visited.

Beyond food, Ningbo showcased traditional cultural crafts through an exhibition, featuring heritage knotting, colorful folding fans, and interactive city-themed puzzles. A photography exhibition highlighted landmarks including Tianyi Pavilion, Sanjiangkou, and Ningbo-Zhoushan Port.

"I never imagined that Ningbo not only has delicious food but is also such a beautiful city. I definitely have to visit in person next time," said a Bursa resident.

The exchange carried particular meaning for the two cities. Bursa, a historic Silk Road hub and Turkiye's silk capital, established friendly-city relations with Ningbo in September 2024. Both cities are also major industrial and commercial centers with strong maritime and trading traditions.

Through food, crafts, and photography, this cross-cultural encounter offered a vivid reminder that sometimes, the best way to discover a city is simply to taste, see, and experience it.

Visitors show interest in Ningbo crafts. [Photo/Yongpai App]