Cities in east China's Jiangsu Province, including Suqian and Changzhou, have introduced preferential cultural and tourism policies, to meet the demands of football fans and tourists brought by the popular local grassroots football event.
The Jiangsu Provincial City Football League, dubbed the “Su Super League,” features 13 teams -- each representing a city in east China's Jiangsu Province. The event has stirred football fever across China, with online viewership soaring into the hundreds of millions.
With matches running from May through to November, the amateur championship has now entered its fourth round as the competition heats up through the summer.
The commerce, culture and tourism departments of Suqian City have recently worked with more than 100 local catering businesses, commercial complexes and scenic spots to live broadcast the football games on large screens in shopping malls and TVs in stores.
Football fans and tourists coming from afar are provided with 20 to 50 percent discounts on accommodation in the city.
"Tourists can enjoy a 20-percent discount at our hotel. We will fully reimburse the taxi fare from the high-speed rail station to the hotel," said Zhou Moxi, a hotel manager.
The football fans can also enjoy discounts at some specialty restaurants with their Suqian home game tickets.
"Diners here can enjoy a 12-percent discount on all dishes. In addition, we will gift each table of diners a famous Suqian dish named 'Farewell My Concubine.' We can also provide pick-up and drop-off services at the stadium," said Tang Chunxia, a restaurant manager
The China Dinosaur Land is a characteristic attraction in Changzhou City. The popularity of the Su Super League has brought life to the cultural and creative products combining elements of dinosaur and football, including specially-designed dolls and T-shirts.
The local transport department also launched themed buses and subway trains, on which travelers can find joy in the cute cartoon dinosaur and football patterns.
"There are pink, green and yellow patterns, it gives a feel of Changzhou style," said a passenger.
The football event has also sparked a growing demand for the construction of football fields and the renewal of equipment. From football shoes, jerseys, support towels, to artificial turf and stadium hardware facilities, relevant companies in Jiangsu are working overtime to expand production.
Grassroots football league boosts tourism in Jiangsu
