During the Qingming Festival vocation, Huaihua's cultural and tourism market experienced a significant surge in activity. According to statistics from the Huaihua Municipal Bureau of Culture, Tourism, Radio, Sports, and Tourism, the city’s 56 monitored tourist attractions welcomed a total of 307,700 visitors, generating revenue of 11.88 million yuan—a year-on-year increase of 39.64% and 39.56%, respectively, showcasing robust growth in both visitor numbers and economic performance.
This year, Huaihua’s cultural and tourism departments at both municipal and county levels collaborated closely to launch a series of themed spring outings and flower-viewing activities, offering diverse holiday experiences. The tourism market exhibited three standout features:
First, deep integration of traditional culture and modern experiences. Scenic spots such as Longxing Lecture Temple and Mount Eryou (China’s "Book Mountain") in Yuanling County, Youzhuang (Dayou Academy) in Chenxi County, and the Ancient Hongjiang Commercial Town in Hongjiang District hosted events like "Ancestral Worship at Book Mountain" and "Hanfu Parades," blending Qingming customs with cultural immersion. In Zhijiang, innovative attractions like the Peace Lake Light Show and the "Metaverse" Technology Experience Center captivated visitors with cutting-edge technology. Meanwhile, historical sites such as the Gaoyi Scenic Area, the Former Residence of General Su Yu, and the Hometown of Emperor Yandi in Lianshan (Huitong County) drew crowds with their rich heritage. Ancient towns like Longxi in Xinhuang, Qianyang Ancient Town, and the Anjiang Agricultural School Memorial Park also saw a sharp rise in visitors. The harmonious blend of tradition and modernity provided tourists with immersive experiences.
Second, rural tourism and eco-leisure in high demand. Agritourism destinations, including the Jiufeng Agricultural Expo Park and Jialu Mountain Villa in Hecheng District, Shandandan Farm in Zhongfang County, and the Qingjiang Lake Scenic Area and Yuanshenwan Resort in Hongjiang City, attracted families with activities like fruit-picking and farmhouse cuisine. Outdoor enthusiasts flocked to Jingzhou’s Paiya Mountain, Wenfeng Pagoda, and Fei Mountain for hiking. Flower-themed routes, such as the Chenlongguan Flower Sea in Yuanling and the Zhongfang County Pear Blossom Festival, not only drew large crowds but also boosted local dining and homestay businesses. Zhijiang’s Taohuaxi Campground, Weichu Winery, and Guanlebei Happy Valley hosted spring flower-viewing, family-friendly study tours, and outdoor parties. Xupu County’s Chuanyan Mountain Forest Park and Simeng Wetland Park were also popular, while Mayang’s Xiafei Yun Orchard, Luoqun Mountain Forest Retreat, and Changhe Park welcomed a steady stream of short-distance travelers.
Third, rising popularity of red tourism and study tours. Red tourism sites, including the Former Residence of General Su Yu and the Tongdao Troop Transfer Memorial Hall in Huitong County, organized special Qingming-themed activities such as "Honoring Martyrs on Qingming," drawing study groups and patriotic visitors. These events enriched the cultural atmosphere and strengthened the legacy of red tourism.
An official from the Huaihua Municipal Bureau of Culture, Tourism, Radio, Sports, and Tourism noted that this year’s Qingming holiday successfully merged traditional culture with modern tourism through innovative offerings, setting a positive tone for the spring tourism season. Moving forward, Huaihua will continue to enhance service quality and introduce more distinctive cultural and tourism products.
(Translated by Qu Qiongxue)