Jiang Zemin and family take a mountain hike in fresh public appearance

Former president Jiang Zemin has taken a walk with family members in Hainan province, photos posted online show, in an apparent demonstration of the retired leader's health and continuing political influence, according to observers.

It was Jiang's second high-profile public appearance in a month.

The photos were posted on the WeChat account of the Dongshan Ridge parkland in the southern province. They showed Jiang, with his wife Wang Yeping and two other generations of their family, on their way to a mountainside Buddhist temple. They were accompanied by Luo Baoming, the Communist Party's provincial head, and several officials and bodyguards.

"It's a pity [that people] do not come to visit such a famous mountain in Hainan," Jiang, 88, was quoted by the WeChat message as saying. "It's a worthwhile trip for Jiang Zemin."

Jiang promised Luo he would help to promote the beauty of Dongshan, the message said. "Hainan [officials] should try to promote such a nice scenic spot," as should leaders in Beijing.

"I will help you to promote it when I return to Beijing. The mountain will be crowded in the future," Jiang was quoted as saying.