Exhibits at China National Pavilion Might Remain the Original Lineup

The China National Pavilion has earned its place as a new landmark in Shanghai, even before the expo comes to a close at the end of this month. But many still wonder how much time they can have to enjoy the exhibits this red pavilion has to offer.

Our reporter Ning Yan is in Shanghai to bring us the latest updates.
One of the most sought-after pavilions at the ongoing Shanghai World Expo has been the China National Pavilion. Since the world fair opened in May, it has attracted more than 7 million visitors from home and abroad.

Shanghai's expo organizers have promised to keep the pavilion and some of the exhibits open after the expo comes to an end. With one month to go before the finale, the public is waiting for an answer and the organizers are feeling pressure to announce new arrangements.

Deputy Director of the China Pavilion, Qian Zhiguang, told a press conference Wednesday that there will be a month of closure before the pavilion reopens to the public.

"The China National Pavilion has such a limited reception capability compared with the high public demand that an extension of its exhibits is reasonable. But after 184 days of non-stop running, its facilities need maintenance. We are hoping to reopen the pavilion after a short break."

The official says hopefully the public will then be able to enjoy the original lineup of exhibits that have amazed visitors during the six-month World Expo, including a 100-meter projection of a famous classical Chinese painting entitled "Along the River During the Qingming Festival," by the 12th century artist Zhang Zeduan.

Xu Hubin, director of the China Pavilion, says discussions and studies about the duration and accessibility of the exhibition are still underway.

"We are carrying out a comprehensive appraisal right now, taking into consideration all factors including the public aspirations and the promises we've made to prolong the exhibition. It's a challenge for us to decide how long the post-expo exhibits at the China National Pavilion should be in order to satisfy the needs of all who are interested in visiting. All roads lead to Rome. There are other ways to tour the Expo. One option is to get online to watch the virtual expo. The other would be to watch the official DVD."

One month before the World Expo concludes, the China National Pavilion is set to embrace a climax on October 1. China's National Day also marks the National Pavilion Day of China, where the holiday will be celebrated in style.

For CRI, I'm Ning Yan in Shanghai.