Aksai sets stage for cultural tourism boom
The unique ethnic horse racing of Aksai. [Photo provided to gogansu.com]
Following recent rainfall, Kazak autonomous county of Aksai welcomed visitors from far and wide with its azure skies, crystal-clear waters, lush greenery, and crisp mountain air. Traditional sightseeing is rapidly giving way to a diverse array of exciting activities, including high-altitude off-road adventures, exotic photo shoots on the frontier, stargazing night tours, and challenging Gobi Desert hikes.
The Boluo Zhuanjing Film Base has emerged as a major attraction in Aksai, captivating the imaginations of photography enthusiasts and movie buffs alike. Preserved film sets, props, and naturally eroded ruins transport visitors into a cinematic world, offering a unique cultural experience that sets it apart from conventional tourist destinations.
Nestled in the otherworldly landscape of Aksai National Desert Park, the avant-garde Spaceship Hotel offers visitors a truly out-of-this-world experience. [Photo provided to gogansu.com]
Located over 90 kilometers from the county seat, the Duobagou Huyangxia Scenic Area has gained fame for its extraordinary natural landscapes. The interplay of poplar trees, tamarisks, reeds, saxauls, and oleasters growing amidst ravines, sand cliffs, and desert expanses creates a series of captivating vistas that leave visitors spellbound.
The beautiful scenery of Kazak autonomous county of Aksai, Jiuquan, Gansu province. [Photo provided to gogansu.com]
In recent years, Aksai has seized the opportunities presented by the development of the Greater Dunhuang Cultural Tourism Economic Circle. By leveraging its distinctive regional landscapes and ethnic characteristics, the county has vigorously promoted new "Tourism+" business models. The first half of this year saw a remarkable surge in tourism, with the county welcoming 278,200 visitors -- a 42.01 percent increase year-on-year, with tourism revenue soaring to 220 million yuan ($30.56 million), representing an impressive 67.94 percent growth compared to the same period last year.