Inbound tourism surges in Chongqing during National Day holiday

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Chongqing, a municipality in southwestern China, has seen a surge in inbound tourism during the week-long National Day holiday, as overseas visitors flock to experience its iconic mountain landscapes and distinctive cuisine.

Celebrations kicked off Thursday to mark China's National Day, launching the annual "Golden Week" holiday through Oct. 7, as the nation celebrates the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

The holiday has boosted daily passenger traffic at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, with daily inbound and outbound trips expected to peak at over 10,000, official data shows.

This influx of travelers has translated into a sharp rise in foot traffic across the city's key scenic spots.

At the hillside Hongyadong scenic area, lights illuminate rows of traditional stilted buildings as night falls. The iconic skyline has become a popular spot for foreign tourists to capture photos and enjoy the night view.

Situated along the Jialing River, the former ancient city gate site has been transformed into a massive multi-tiered complex featuring local restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.

"Honestly, we are all really surprised. We weren't expecting such beauty. So yeah, we're really happy about it," said Serravalle Giulia, an Italian tourist.

Beyond the night views, Chongqing's renowned local cuisine is another major draw for international travelers. From riverside dishes and hotpot to traditional street snacks, the city's signature hot, fresh, and savory flavors have won praise from overseas visitors.

"I like its flavor, because it's really strong. It's a completely different diet, because in Italy, we have a lot of carbohydrates. And here, there are a lot of spices, the vegetables and a lot of meat and fish as well. In Italy, too, but it is spicy. This is different," said Consalvo Elaisa, another Italian tourist.

During this year's National Day holiday, Chongqing's scenic areas also launched a series of special activities, including folk performances, allowing foreign tourists to experience diverse Chinese culture. 

Meanwhile, hundreds of tax refund shops and currency exchange outlets across the city are making shopping and spending more seamless for international visitors.

The tourism surge reflects the impact of China's continuously optimized entry policies in recent years. Expanded visa-free access, streamlined payment systems, and enhanced port services have made it increasingly convenient for overseas travelers to explore the country.

Inbound tourism surges in Chongqing during National Day holiday

Ancient towns and historic blocks across China have rolled out a range of activities combining traditional folk customs and cultural performances during the week-long National Day holiday to boost tourism.

Boyan Ancient Town, which sits at the eastern foot of the Taihang Mountains in Handan City, north China's Hebei Province, and dates back nearly a thousand years, is bustling with visitors during the holiday which runs from Oct 1 to Oct 7.

Traditional parades, folk acrobatics, and music performances have been staged in rotation, blending ancient charm with contemporary flair. The town receives nearly 10,000 visitors a day.

In Pianyan Ancient Town, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, a long street banquet has been set up along an old street, allowing visitors to enjoy local delicacies.

Folk performances featuring dramatic face-changing and fire-spitting acts have also been staged to add to the festive atmosphere.

"I'm from Beijing, and this is my first time attending a long street banquet. It's so lively, and the atmosphere here is wonderful. I'll definitely recommend it to my friends," said Kan Xinru, a tourist.

Also in Chongqing, Banqiao Old Town has staged a folk parade along its old street, with a plowing ox leading the way, farmers carrying goods on shoulder poles, and drums beating alongside.

"Many people are carrying things with shoulder poles, and there's so much stuff in the baskets. It really has a strong rural flavor," said Han Xu, a tourist.

In Wuzhou City, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, the century-old Qilou Block has drawn big crowds during the holiday.

Known for the iconic arcade building -- structure with a frontage arcade on the ground floor that allows pedestrians to pass through, the block has rolled out scheduled performances and consumption-boosting activities during the holiday. Visitors can not only indulge in local delicacies but also watch a robot make tea.

Ancient towns, historic blocks roll out diverse activities to boost National Day tourism

Ancient towns, historic blocks roll out diverse activities to boost National Day tourism