The Huangyan Grotto Cultural and Art Center in Taizhou, Zhejiang province, nears completion. [Photo/Tide News]

After a year of craftsmanship, the Huangyan Grotto Cultural and Art Center in Taizhou, Zhejiang province, is nearing completion and will open to the public before the Spring Festival.

The Huangyan Grotto scenic area is a quarry relic with a long history. Inside the grotto, crystal-clear waters meander through interconnected caverns, where natural rock paintings embellish the walls, creating a stunning fusion of nature and human ingenuity.

The Huangyan Grotto Cultural and Art Center spans approximately 20,680 square meters, with a planned tourist route of about 2,000 meters, requiring around 2.5 hours to traverse.

Designed by a team from Tsinghua University, the site embodies a dual-core concept of space design and cultural development. It features the protective restoration of the grottoes and the creation of three distinct zones — an urban living room, an entertainment and leisure area, and a themed restaurant — offering visitors a novel experience.

"We have introduced boat docks, cafes, and handicraft workshops to the center, integrating Huangyan's intangible cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the majesty of grottoes and immerse themselves in the local culture," said Chen Jian of Yongning Industrial Investment Group.

In future operations, the center will host art exhibitions, interactive family activities, rock climbing challenges, and other engaging experiences. It will also expand to commercial events like weddings and corporate gatherings, enhancing its impact comprehensively.

During Spring Festival, the scenic area will collaborate with the Ecological Agricultural Park in Huangyan, inviting everyone to appreciate the unique blend of nature and culture.