The Chinese ginseng soup contest opening in Tonghua attracts nationwide visitors. [Photo/Jilin Daily]

During the National Day holiday on Oct 6, Tonghua city in Northeast China's Jilin province hosted the Ginseng Chicken Soup Contest, drawing visitors from across the country eager to savor the region's renowned ginseng-infused cuisine.

The event, part of Tonghua's Ginseng Food Festival, offered a sensory feast. Elite chefs competed to create the perfect ginseng chicken soup, blending traditional ingredients with modern culinary techniques.

A chef makes ginseng chicken soup. [Photo/Jilin Daily]

The venue chirped excitedly as visitors sampled the aromatic ginseng chicken soups and snapped photos of the vibrant atmosphere. Zhang Cai, a tourist from Henan province, expressed her delight: "The soup here is incredibly flavorful, and it's a dish rarely found in my hometown. I came to Tonghua specifically to experience its culture and cuisine."

Attendees enjoyed free tastings and cooking demonstrations. Many visitors, like Wu Yanxia from Qiqihar, Heilongjiang province, captured recipes to recreate at home.

Beyond the culinary experience, Tonghua took advantage of the event to promote its autumn tourism under the theme "Autumn in Tonghua: The Beauty of the Maple", The city integrated its vibrant fall foliage, cultural heritage, and National Day festivities to attract tourists, offering a diverse seasonal travel experience.

Freshly made ginseng chicken soup. [Photo/Jilin Daily]