The Yangtze River is one of the most beautiful rivers in the world, and also one of the longest. It passes through 11 provinces, flowing from Qinghai in the Tibetan Plateau to the East China Sea at Shanghai. The Yangtze River is approximately 6,418 kilometers long and it has been the source of many historical, cultural and economical developments in China.

The Yangtze River has nurtured the Chinese people for several centuries, providing opportunities for trade, agriculture, transportation etc. Various cities along the river have grown tremendously to become some of China’s major cities.

However, the river has also created plenty of trouble for these cities in the form of floods, causing destruction, injury and death. The Three Gorges Dam was built for the purpose of minimising floods. It is also the largest hydro-electric power station in the world.

The Yangtze’s scenic beauty and historical relics bring numerous tourists to travel along the third largest river in the world. The river that once divided northern and southern China is now an important link that unites the two parts of the country

The theme for the Hong Kong Young Writers Awards 2012 is “NEW TALES OF THE YANGTZE RIVER”.

We are delighted that you are participating and look forward to reading your creative and skilful entries.

* The Yangtze River image belongs to www.visitourchina.com