China has rolled out a series of cultural and tourism initiatives across multiple provinces to energize travel and spending during the eight-day National Day holiday that began Wednesday and will this year also encompass the Mid-Autumn Festival.
From light festivals in Shanghai to heritage showcases in Jiangsu and mountain discounts in Jiangxi, local governments are pulling out all stops to attract holiday crowds during a period that is also known as China's Golden Week.
In Shanghai, an ongoing light festival has showcased the city's vitality through an impressive array of artistic light installations at some landmarks, such as Yangpu Riverfront and Wujiaochang, a bustling commercial district.
The 2nd Shanghai International Light Festival, featuring landscape lighting, is set to dazzle from Sept. 19 to Oct. 18 under the theme "Light Up Shanghai."
In Nanjing, east China's Jiangsu Province, the Gaochun Ancient Street boasting over 900 years of history, is alive with intangible cultural heritage performances that showcase local folk culture.
East China's Jiangxi Province is also making waves by launching more than 1,100 culture and tourism-themed activities, along with preferential policies to draw in visitors during the holiday.
Major scenic spots in the province, including Lushan Mountain, Sanqing Mountain, and Wugong Mountain, have introduced discounted ticket packages during the holiday to boost tourism.
In southwest China's Sichuan Province, 1,300 promotional activities are set to take place during the holiday to boost tourism and consumption.
In Daying County of Suining City, vibrant performances have been staged to the delight of tourists, offering a cultural feast and enhancing the festive atmosphere.
The Mid-Autumn Festival, traditionally celebrated with mooncakes and family reunions, honors the harvest and the full moon. National Day, observed on October 1, commemorates the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, making this year the 76th anniversary of its establishment.
China rolls out cultural events, travel perks to spur spending during 'Golden Week' holiday
