The China/Ireland Cultural Exchange programme opened in Beijing last night with a performance by 'Riverdance' and traditional group, Altan.
They replaced The Chieftains, who were forced to pull out of the event due to unexpected illness.
The Festival of Irish Culture in China is part of a major cultural exchange programme aimed at promoting Ireland's identity and presence in China.
The Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, John O'Donoghue, said he hoped the cultural programme would lead to increased social, trade and economic relations between Ireland and China.
The Festival will continue throughout May and June and will be followed by a reciprocal Festival of Chinese Culture in Ireland later this year.
