BEIJING, Aug. 23 (Xinhua) -- "Shaanxi Day," showcasing the history and culture of northwest China's Shaanxi Province, was observed at the ongoing International Horticultural Exhibition in Beijing.

The event kicked off with folk songs and dance performances on Thursday and will last for three days.

The Shaanxi Garden is designed using elements of architectural styles of the Tang Dynasty (618-907 A.D.) and is decorated with topiary plants in the shapes of a giant panda, crested ibis, golden monkey and takin - four representative animals of the Qinling Mountains, a natural boundary between the country's north and south.

Multiple events will be held to promote Shaanxi's tourism, cultural and industrial products and visitors can also taste local delicacies such as noodles and mutton soup.

As one of the major habitats for giant pandas, dances and operas featuring the conservation and breeding of the precious animal will also be presented during "Shaanxi Day."

The Beijing Horticultural Expo, themed "Live Green, Live Better," is the world's largest expo of its kind. It opened to the public on April 29 in Yanqing District and will last until Oct. 7.