Introduction
Ancient trails refer to roads once used by our ancestors and that still retain some or all of their original features.This precious type of linear cultural heritage bears the imprints of ancestral civilization, carries the hardships of human life, the rise and fall of commerce, deep cultural roots, and the changes of history. They showcase the local natural ecology, local customs, and human history, and also serve as an important vessel for our sense of "nostalgia."
2014Year6Month22Day, two famous ancient trails — the Silk Road and the Grand Canal — were officially inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as linear cultural heritage sites. The national Belt and Road Initiative, which includes the joint construction of the“Silk Road Economic Belt”and the“2121st Century Maritime Silk Road,”has been incorporated into national policy. In response, the China National Tourism Administration designated the development themes for2015and2016as“the Year of Silk Road Tourism”for two consecutive years, opening a new chapter in the exploration and protection of linear cultural heritage in China and around the world.
To further promote the preservation of ancient trails and implement concepts such as national fitness, Green Field Network, as one of the organizers, together with the Beijing Civilization Road Hiking Center and professional media outlets such as Traveler and Lonely Planet, will launch10major ancient trail systems each year for10years, introducing a total of100top ancient trail systems to society (with the number of collected ancient trails expected to exceed10000). They will also collaborate with over 100 outdoor associations, travel agencies, and outdoor clubs to organize the Chinese "Million People Walking Ancient Trails" campaign. This initiative aims to engage outdoor sports enthusiasts who care about Chinese civilization (including overseas Chinese and friends from other countries who love Chinese history and culture) to explore ancient trails across the country, thereby fully uncovering and protecting the historical and cultural resources contained within these trails.
The Chinese "Million People Walking Ancient Trails" campaign is the first step in the international series of events called "10Billion People Walking Ancient Trails."
I. The Significance of Walking Ancient Trails
Ancient trails are an extremely valuable outdoor resource. For everyone who loves life and enjoys outdoor activities, walking ancient trails is a wonderful way to engage in outdoor recreation, offering many enriching benefits.
II. Guidelines for Hiking Ancient Trails
III.Exploration of Ancient Trail Resources
The resource exploration of each ancient trail includes the following20aspects:
1. Difficulty: Assessment of the hiking difficulty level
2. Length: Assessment of the total distance of transportation and hiking routes
3. Scenery: Assessment of the grade or quality of surrounding landscapes
4. Transportation: Assessment of the accessibility and departure options
5. Food: Assessment of local culinary offerings-Local characteristics
6. Special features: Assessment of the value of famous cultural relics and attractions
7. Historical sites: Assessment of the value of ancient remains
8. Events: Assessment of the impact of historical events
9. Historical figures: Assessment of the influence of notable historical personalities
10.Friendliness: Assessment of the attitude of local residents toward outsiders
11.Costs: Assessment of the potential expenses involved in reaching and traversing the trail
12.Ethnic groups: Assessment of specific customs of local ethnic minorities
13.Hazards: Assessment of possible dangers in the area
14.Flora and fauna: Assessment of the presence of local distinctive plants and animals
15.Experts: Assessment of the status of local researchers or conservationists
16.Best seasons: Assessment of the optimal or characteristic times for activities
17.Conservation: Assessment of the current state of preservation or destruction
18.Images: Assessment of the value of related photos, paintings, and other materials
19.Publications: Assessment of the influence of relevant published books
20.Media coverage: Assessment of the influence of newspaper and online reports
In addition to the above20evaluation system, outdoor travelers may also conduct a comprehensive assessment of whether a particular ancient trail is suitable for their trip based on four factors—intensity, difficulty, risk, and scenic value—according to the specific conditions of each trail.
We welcome assistance from all sectors of society to jointly advance this work.
IV. Welcome to join the “Million People Walk the Ancient Trails” series of events
“Most activities in the “Million People Walk the Ancient Trails”are open to everyone, can be participated in at any time, and pose no threats to physical capabilities or even life as traditional competitions might, nor do they carry the health risks associated with urban pollution. It is a brand-new, scientific, safe, eco-friendly, civilized, and enjoyable way to connect with nature, showcase yourself, and engage in outdoor activities.
Currently, the main offerings include ancient trail marathons and mountain cross-country runs held on various ancient trails, as well as cycling and self-driving activities along the Silk Road and the Ancient Tea Horse Road. Eligible participants will receive certificates, commemorative medals, trophies, and more upon completion. These events are highly worthwhile for outdoor enthusiasts.
For specific participation methods, please refer to theGreen Fieldwebsite’s published event details.The official Green Field website will release relevant routes according to the progress of the events, and team leaders are welcome to actively organize teams and sign up to participate.
