Editor's note:
Jhalak Prasad Subedi, advisor to Pokhara of Nepal, visited Huangshan from May 28 to 31 to attend the 2026 Global Mayor Dialogue · Huangshan. Below are his firsthand observations and travel experiences during the trip.
My visit to Huangshan offered far more than beautiful scenery — it provided a glimpse into how culture, technology, and sustainable tourism can work together to shape a city's future.
One of the most memorable experiences was exploring Huangshan Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite its steep terrain, visitors of all ages could enjoy the journey thanks to modern infrastructure, including cable cars and even wearable exoskeleton devices that assist with climbing. It was a striking example of how technology can make natural wonders more accessible.
Another highlight was Taiping Lake. Surrounded by lush mountains and tea gardens, the lake combines ecological conservation with high-quality tourism. Local communities benefit directly through homestays, tea production, and visitor experiences. The peaceful landscape reminded me of Nepal's Begnas Lake and Rara Lake, both of which hold enormous potential for sustainable tourism development.
I was equally impressed by Huangshan's tea industry. Renowned teas such as Taiping Houkui and Huangshan Maofeng have transformed traditional agriculture into a thriving modern industry, supporting hundreds of thousands of tea farmers while preserving cultural heritage.
Subedi observes tea-processing techniques in Huangshan. [Photo/Jhalak Prasad Subedi]
Technology was visible everywhere. At a highly automated beverage factory, robots handled nearly every stage of production. In hotels, transportation hubs, and public spaces, intelligent devices quietly improved efficiency and convenience. These innovations demonstrated how technological progress can enhance everyday life.
Subedi experiences Huawei smart glasses showcasing real-time translation, in Huangshan. [Photo/Jhalak Prasad Subedi]
The ancient village of Hongcun also left a deep impression. By preserving historic architecture and local traditions while welcoming millions of visitors each year, the village has achieved a remarkable balance between cultural protection and economic growth.
For cities like Pokhara, Huangshan offers valuable lessons in infrastructure, innovation, environmental protection, and community-based tourism. This visit strengthened my belief that sustainable development can be achieved through vision, planning, and cooperation.