Chinese TV show explores big charm of small cities

Viewers have been hooked to Charm China since it was first aired on China Central Television on July 14.

Each episode of the show compares cultural elements and economic development in two different cities, giving a chance to local government officials and residents to voice their views on TV and become somewhat famous in the process.

In addition to knowing their cities very well, the mayors or deputy mayors who appear on the show also need to be eloquent. Sometimes, they are asked to join in the singing and dancing.