3,000 runners race through countryside in Zigong

The Ziliujing leg of the 2026 National Harmonious and Beautiful Countryside Health Run, known as the Village Run, kicked off Nov. 8 in Zigong, southwest China's Sichuan province, attracting 3,000 runners from across China.

The participants set off along a scenic autumn route in the Jianshan Mountain area, winding past farmland, rural settlements, ponds and villages.

The event featured two categories: a 12-kilometer rural run and a 5.2-kilometer health run. Starting and finishing in Gantang village, the routes connected several picturesque villages.

Beyond the races, the event offered participants a taste of local culture and rural life. More than 90 market stalls showcased local specialties, including Zigong spicy rabbit, Jianshan roast rabbit, Gongjing preserved mustard tubers and Fushun tofu pudding.

National-level intangible cultural heritage items, such as Zigong tie-dye and Gong fans, were also on display. Visitors could try their hand at traditional crafts, including tie-dyeing and Gong fan-making, while online influencers livestreamed from the event to promote local products to audiences across the country.