Awards are given to the prize-winners of Mount Taishan Climbing Festival. (by Wang Qian)

The 24th International Mount Taishan Climbing Festival & 2010 Tai’an Investment and Cooperation Fair began in Tai’an, Shandong province.

SHIOJI KOKAZU, head of the Japanese Fuji Mountain Association delegation, and tourist groups from Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan attended the opening ceremony.

The festival，lasting to September 10, includes the final of 2010 Mount Taishan Climbing Grand Prix & the 15th International Mount Taishan Climbing Invitational Tournament, 2010 International Mount Taishan Music Festival, “Mount Taishan& Fuji Mountain” China and Japan Friendship Festival, the International Mount Taishan Orchid Festival and the first “ Photographers Travel in Tai’an” Photography Contest.

The 15th International Mount Taishan Climbing Invitational Tournament attracted more than 3000 competitors from 29 countries and districts, with awards of 200,000 yuan and 150,000 yuan to the winners.

The International Mount Taishan Climbing Festival has been an annual occasion since 1987, attracting athletes and tourists.

Yang Luyu, Secretary of Tai'an Committee of the CPC, delivers a speech on the opening ceremony. (by Wang Qian).

By Wang Qian and Liu Dongxian (China Daily Shandong Bureau)

Editor: Li Jing