An aerial view of the China-U.S. Youth Friendship Woods in Kuliang, a serene suburb of Fuzhou, Fujian province. [Photo/FZ Evening News]

A new symbol of international friendship is about to take root in the scenic hills of Kuliang. With construction work now completed, the China-U.S. Youth Friendship Woods, adjacent to the Kuliang Club, will officially open to the public during the "Bond with Kuliang: 2025 China-U.S. Youth Choir Festival", scheduled for July 9 to 18.

The woods, based on the theme of China-U.S. youth friendship, are envisioned as an international friendship and cultural heritage park, a welcoming gateway on Kuliang's eastern edge, and a top destination for summer camping culture.

Following the landscape enhancement, environmental restoration and ecological improvements, the area has been transformed into a theme park that integrates cultural exchange, commemorative education, nature exploration and leisure experiences.

The approximately 29,500-square-meter park, built along the mountainside, is carefully designed to harmonize with the natural terrain.

A towering boulder, etched with the Chinese characters "China-U.S. Youth Friendship Woods", stands proudly amid a sea of vibrant blossoms. [Photo/FZ Evening News]

Upon entering, visitors encounter the "Solid as a Rock" scenic zone, where natural boulders rise amid the lush greenery. Surrounded by layers of flowers and ground-cover plants, the largest stone is engraved with the characters "China-U.S. Youth Friendship Woods", symbolizing a bond between the youth of both nations that is as strong and enduring as stone.

Continuing along the stone steps, visitors arrive at the "Endless Vitality" area, the starting point of the Cedar Trail. This section, lined with roses and other flowering plants, was inspired by Kuliang's ancient cedar forests, representing the evergreen vitality of China-U.S. friendship. The trail connects to Kuliang's popular Zhugangding hiking loop, where visitors can enjoy well-loved landmarks, including the Fringe Tree Path, Moon Gazebo, Sunrise Viewing Platform and Zhuli Campsite.

The "Confluence of Friendship" scenic area opens into a flourishing woodland. These woods were planted last year by Chinese and American youth — alongside "Kuliang Friends" — during the "Bond with Kuliang: 2024 China-U.S. Youth Festival". Now, 186 thriving trees stand as living testaments to international friendship. Nearby, an observation deck offers sweeping views of Kuliang's picturesque mountain landscape.

At the final "Overlooking from the Heights" section, a quiet viewing platform is nestled among the hills, surrounded by blooming roses and verdant greenery. From this vantage point, visitors can take in the misty mountains in the distance and the vibrant forest nearby. With the breeze on one's face and nature all around, it is a peaceful and invigorating experience.