An enchanting photo exhibition celebrating China’s rich and diverse wildlife has opened at the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) headquarters in Madrid, Spain. Held on Thursday, the event aims to promote the burgeoning trend of natural tourism in China, highlighting the nation’s vast array of natural parks and untouched landscapes.
“There are lots of natural parks and many beautiful places that are undiscovered, and I think this is one of the first steps to promote Chinese natural tourism, which is also becoming very trendy and important today,” said Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the UNWTO.
The exhibition features 20 stunning photographs of wildlife, some of which have garnered accolades in international competitions. Captured by both professional and amateur Chinese photographers ranging from ages 12 to over 70, the images showcase the breathtaking beauty and biodiversity found across China.
Pololikashvili emphasized the growing desire among tourists to explore China beyond its urban centers. Visitors are keen “to see not only buildings and architecture or the modern part of China but also the rural development,” he noted, adding that promoting rural tourism is “one of our priorities.”
“This exhibition is one of the first steps to promote together natural tourism,” Pololikashvili remarked. “In China, there are many things to see outside of the big cosmopolitan cities.”
China’s tourism industry has been experiencing a robust recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic. In the first half of this year, the country welcomed 14.64 million international visitors, marking a 153 percent surge from the previous year. Notably, 8.54 million of these visitors entered through visa-free policies, reflecting a 190 percent increase, according to data from the China National Immigration Administration.
The exhibition in Madrid serves as a testament to China’s commitment to sustainable tourism and its efforts to showcase the country’s natural treasures to the world. As global travelers increasingly seek authentic and nature-based experiences, China’s diverse landscapes offer a wealth of opportunities for exploration and cultural exchange.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
