The documentary, which has garnered acclaim in both China and Japan for its down-to-earth and engaging nature, has also received praise from industry insiders.

In late June, it won the best documentary award at the 21st China Movie Channel Media Focus Unit, an industry honor established in 2004 by the titular channel, the country's largest and most influential broadcaster specializing in movie broadcasts.

Wu Hailong, president of the China Public Diplomacy Association, says that the value of the film lies in the director's use of a documentary approach to objectively and truthfully tell the story of the Yangtze River to the world, reflecting China's development and the changes it is undergoing.

Contact the writer at xufan@chinadaily.com.cn