China's cultural tourism market is booming during the seven-day National Day holiday, with a vibrant array of activities from traditional camel rides to immersive folk festivals, offering visitors diverse and memorable experiences across the country.
In Dunhuang City of northwest China's Gansu Province, the Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring scenic area has welcomed 30,000 daily tourist arrivals during the holiday, which started on Thursday.
Amid rolling sand dunes and a tranquil, crescent-shaped spring nestled in a sea of sand, tourists in traditional attire took photos and enjoyed camel rides stretching for kilometers, recreating the poetry and grandeur of the ancient Silk Road.
"Coming here to experience it in person, climbing up and walking down the sand dunes. I'm 70 years old and I feel it was absolutely worth it. We also rode camels, and not just for a short stroll, but for several kilometers," said Huo Yuliang, a tourist.
In Shizuishan City of northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, the Shitanjing cultural tourism and film town, once a mining area, has also seen an influx of visitors from across the country.
As a key filming location for the hit Chinese anti-war film Once Upon a Time in the Middle East, the town is adorned with movie posters and detailed location boards, helping fans hunt for and recreate iconic scenes directly from the big screen, blending cinematic nostalgia with industrial heritage.
In Xiaoyi City of north China's Shanxi Province, a city-wide themed lighting event celebrating the National Day has drawn huge crowds. A giant national flag flowed slowly through the crowd, prompting onlookers to pause, gaze, and wave in salute. Meanwhile, spectacular fireworks soared into the night sky, showcasing the historic city's ancient charm and new vitality.
"Being able to experience such a strong National Day festive atmosphere right at my doorstep makes me feel incredibly warm and proud," said Su Haijian, a local resident.
The holiday coincides with the New Rice Festival, a traditional Wa ethnic group celebration in southwest China's Yunnan Province to give thanks for the harvest and pray for blessings.
The ancient Wengding village in Cangyuan Wa Autonomous County of Lincang City has reached a peak in tourist flow. Visitors came to appreciate the primitive architecture, watch folk performances, and experience local agricultural culture, immersing themselves in the unique Wa ethnic customs.
"I brought my child to Wengding today. The activities are wonderfully designed. During the tour, my child was able to experience the hard work involved in traditional farming and daily life," said Zhao Shi, a tourist.
Diverse activities fuel boom in China's holiday tourism market
