Improved transport networks boost China's summer tourism

Tourism in China is thriving in July as summer travel surges, boosted by improved transport network covering over 80 percent of counties nationwide.

In southwest China's Yunnan Province, the Lijiang-Shangri-La Railway brings high-speed rail to Diqing Prefecture, where tourists can enjoy the picturesque scenes of traditional villages, try traditional techniques such as black pottery and incense-making, and embark on virtual tours to local sites through VR technology.

"When visiting Shangri-La before, I felt that time was always insufficient and my itinerary was imperfect. But now transportation is much more convenient, enhancing the overall experience," said Chen, a tourist from south China's Guangdong Province.

Data from the first five months shows Shangri-La received more than 8.7 million visitors, increasing by almost 22 percent year on year. The city generated about 8.37 billion yuan (about 1.2 billion U.S. dollars) in revenue during that period, up by almost six percent year on year.

In east China, Shandong Province's Rongcheng City on the tip of the Jiaodong Peninsula has been attracting crowds with its scenic shoreline.

"The air and environment are excellent. I walked along the coastal highway yesterday and it felt comfortable. Feeling the sea breeze gives me an incredible sensation," said Fan Aibo, a visitor to the city.

Local authorities have optimized accommodation, dining, and commercial facilities for the summer rush, helping 12 A-rated sites draw more than 3 million visitors, marking an increase of over 14 percent year on year.

Improved transport networks boost China's summer tourism

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung said on Wednesday that Seoul firmly adheres to the one-China principle, in comments made ahead of his upcoming state visit to China.

The remarks were made in an interview with China Media Group (CMG). The visit is scheduled for Jan 4–7.

"The consensus reached between governments of the Republic of Korea and China when diplomatic relations were established continues to be the fundamental principle governing our relations, and its effectiveness remains steadfast. I want to clearly state that the ROK has always adhered to the one-China principle. Maintaining peace and stability in regional matters, including in Northeast Asia and concerning the Taiwan issue, holds significant importance to us," said Lee.

"The foundational relationship between the ROK and China was established on a very principled and fundamental basis from the beginning. It is clear that the ROK government has always adhered to this position and has never wavered from it. I believe that the sound development of ROK-China relations depends on both sides fully respecting each other's core interests and being mutually tolerant of each other's positions. In this context, we will, as always, uphold the one-China principle as the Taiwan issue is China's most fundamental concern," he said.

ROK president reiterates firm adherence to one-China principle