Trail challenge promotes Xi'an's sports-tourism integration

The 2026 Lishan 10K China Trail Challenge attracted hundreds of trail running enthusiasts from across the country to Xi'an's Huaqing Palace Scenic Area on Sept 13.

The course wound through forest trails, mountain paths, and woodlands, presenting runners with a historical and cultural corridor spanning 1,000 years. Supply stations and medical posts lined the route, with professional medical support and security personnel on duty throughout the race.

The organizing committee designed race gear sets with commemorative value and artistic appeal, while finisher medals centered on the contours of Lishan Mountain and incorporated distinctive Tang (618–907) cultural symbols exclusive to Huaqing Palace, serving as unique keepsakes that embody race memories and local culture. All registered runners also received free annual passes to Huaqing Palace Scenic Area.

Drawing on its ecological resources and Tang cultural heritage, Huaqing Palace has focused on developing the concept of "sports + tourism + culture" in recent years, striving to become a national high-quality outdoor sports destination. The Lishan Trail Challenge serves as an important window to showcase Huaqing Palace and promote Shaanxi province's image to the world.

Huaqing Palace will launch more "sports +" events to promote national fitness and eco-tourism, injecting new momentum into the high-quality development of local industries.