A half marathon will take place in northern Hebei province's Chongli district on September 23.

It's a joint effort between the Chongli government and the Chinese Athletic Association.

The goal is to develop leisure and sport into a pillar industry in Chongli, says Cao Jianwei, deputy head of the district.

"Running in autumn would allow you to fully take in the most splendid scenery of Chongli," Cao says.

The district features abundant mountains and forests and promises a getaway to runners, he adds.

The event is also the first of a series of a philanthropic running tour supported by China Philanthropy, which was established by the Bank of China to publicize and promote public welfare programs.