As consumption leads China’s economic growth, the tourism market emerges as an increasingly vital cornerstone. Amid this expanding industry, we observe two significant trends shaping the future: the resurgence of Chinese culture and the influence of new media.
According to data from the Chinese mainland’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism, during the recent seven-day National Day Holiday, 765 million people traveled domestically. This figure represents a 5.9 percent increase from the previous year and a 10.2 percent rise compared to 2019, before the pandemic. Tourism revenue soared to 701 billion yuan ($99.2 billion), marking a 6.3 percent growth over 2019.
The growing fascination with Chinese culture is drawing more tourists. Cities and towns across the nation, enriched by thousands of years of history, offer a multitude of local and historical cultures. Given the country’s vast territory, even residents from different regions experience unique cultural differences, fostering a thriving domestic tourism market with diverse attractions.
For instance, the historical architecture and heritage sites of Beijing captivate visitors from southern provinces like Fujian, Guangdong, and Hainan. Conversely, the tulou—traditional earth buildings unique to the Hakka people in Fujian—provide northern visitors with profound cultural experiences.
Companies and local governments aiming to boost their local tourism markets are increasingly leveraging local culture. By highlighting aspects such as historical heritage, traditional architecture, cultural attire, and regional cuisine, they enrich tourism offerings and attract more visitors intrigued by these cultural elements.
In addition to cultural immersion, new media is playing a significant role in transforming China’s tourism landscape. Though not elaborated in detail, the integration of technology and digital platforms helps travelers discover and engage with destinations like never before.
As these trends continue to shape the industry, China’s tourism market is poised for sustained growth, offering valuable insights for those interested in Asia’s dynamic economic and cultural developments.
Reference(s):
Culture and new media: the new trends of China's tourism market
cgtn.com
