On the evening of 21 September, the “2026 Nanhu Moonlit Autumn” garden festival kicked off at Zigong Nanhu Ecological Park. Following landscape enhancements, a 2.5-kilometre-long light and shadow display encircling the lake, themed illuminations and a variety of garden attractions were unveiled. On the opening night, many local residents and visitors had booked in advance to enter the park, where they admired the scenery and strolled amongst the lake's reflections and the play of lights, coming together to enjoy an autumnal moonlit evening.

Scene from the recreational event at Zigong Nanhu Ecological Park. [Photograph by Zhiquan Liao]

Exquisite lantern displays. [Photograph by Zhiquan Liao]

As you stroll along the 2.5-kilometre lakeside footpath, light and shadow intertwine with the landscaped gardens. A light mist hovers over the woodland, whilst the play of light and shadow on the ground shifts with every step; amongst the lawns and green spaces, illuminated sculptures in the shapes of jade rabbits and full moons are scattered here and there, creating a delightful contrast with the trees and grass. With every step revealing a new scene, the spirit of the Mid-Autumn Festival blends naturally into the autumn night at South Lake.

On the evening of the opening, a gentle breeze blew across South Lake, causing the water's surface to shimmer. The lights on the shore were reflected in the lake, swaying gently with the ripples, whilst many visitors paused by the lakeside to admire the view, raising their mobile phones to capture the scene. The interplay of the lake's glow, the moonlight and the coloured lights became one of the most popular attractions in the park that evening.

Light and shadow intertwine with the garden landscape. [Photograph by Zhiquan Liao]

Residents strolling along the light and shadow walk. [Photograph by Zhiquan Liao]

The event is open to the public free of charge; during operating hours, entry is by real-name booking only. Members of the public may book in advance via the official WeChat mini-programs “Zigong Culture and Tourism” and “Zigong Lantern Festival”; upon successful booking, visitors must present their original, valid identity document to gain entry. For further information regarding bookings and visiting the event, please follow the WeChat official accounts “Zigong Culture and Tourism Development Group” and “Zigong Lantern Festival”.