During the recent May Day holiday, China’s mega infrastructure and science projects have emerged as new popular destinations for tourists, blending technological marvel with travel experiences.
The Wenchang Space Launch Site, located in the southern island province of Hainan, attracted nearly 80,000 visitors on the day of the rocket launch last Friday. The site gained widespread attention as China’s Chang’e-6 lunar probe took off, offering tourists a front-row seat to the nation’s advancements in space exploration.
At the Wenchang Aerospace Science Popularization Center, crowds gathered to watch the rocket launch on an outdoor large screen, capturing the historic moment with their mobile phones. Nearby, Qishuiwan Beach became a hub of activity as visitors posed with models of rockets and the moon, surrounded by displays featuring aerospace elements.
Meanwhile, Kedu Town in Pingtang County, southwest China’s Guizhou Province, welcomed both domestic and international tourists eager to explore the world’s largest single-dish radio telescope. The Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Radio Telescope (FAST), also known as the “China Sky Eye,” has become a focal point for astronomy enthusiasts and educational tours. Visitors had the opportunity to learn about cutting-edge research and witness firsthand the facilities contributing to humanity’s understanding of the universe.
Over the past years, China’s significant technological breakthroughs have led to the creation of landmark sites that celebrate the nation’s achievements in various scientific fields. Wu Sa, deputy director of the Economic Research Institute of the National Development and Reform Commission, remarked that the growing popularity of these destinations reflects a sense of pride among the Chinese people. “These projects, developed with domestic technology, showcase our country’s progress and inspire a connection with science and innovation,” Wu said.
The trend of integrating tourism with science and infrastructure not only provides unique travel experiences but also promotes public interest in scientific endeavors. By visiting these sites, tourists engage with the advancements shaping China’s future, fostering a deeper appreciation for the role of science and technology in society.
Reference(s):
Science, infrastructure projects become travel destinations in China
cgtn.com
