Culture Minister Luo Shugang (second from right) and distinguished guests announce the opening of the 15th Asia Arts Festival in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, Sept 23. [Photo/Xinhua]

To enhance friendship and international communication, the 15th Asia Arts Festival opened in Ningbo, Zhejiang province on Sept 23.

The festival consists of more than 10 cultural activities in the forms of cultural forums, as well as pieces of performing art and visual art.

Centered on innovation and creativity, this year's event includes invitational exhibitions, drama performances and forums for performing arts.

The opening gala showcases musical achievements along the ancient Silk Road. Many musical instruments that will appear on stage are inscribed in lists of Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Asia-Pacific region.