During the 2024 National Day holiday, Guangyuan, Sichuan province, experienced a significant surge in its cultural and tourism sector, attracting an influx of visitors.

Jianmen Pass crowded with visitors during the National Day holiday [Photo provided to cngy.gov.cn]

According to official statistics, the city welcomed 5.05 million visitors, a year-on-year increase of 14.68 percent. Tourism revenue totaled 2.89 billion yuan ($409.1 million), up 17.87 percent compared to the same period last year.

Guangyuan's scenic spots drew 1.47 million visitors, generating ticket sales of 23.99 million yuan. Meanwhile, local cultural venues such as libraries, cultural centers, museums and art galleries hosted 356 online and offline events, serving 69,500 people.

The Red Army City Scenic Area in Wangcang county, Guangyuan, Sichuan province [Photo provided to cngy.gov.cn]

Red tourism sites, including the Red Army City Scenic Area and the Mumen Military Meeting Site, were particularly popular with visitors.

The city's renowned historical sites along the ancient shudao (roads to today's Sichuan province), led by the national 5A-level Jianmen Pass, also saw high visitor numbers. These also included the Zhaohua Ancient Town, Thousand-Buddha Cliff, Huangze Temple – all of which are national 4A-level attractions.

Innovative experiences further enhanced visitor engagement, with Jianmen Pass introducing AI robot performances and an immersive VR experience. Zhaohua Ancient Town offered performances featuring traditional mecha show, Three Kingdoms-themed band performance, and a historical reenactment.

In addition, Guangyuan actively promoted rural tourism, with various countryside attractions hosting special events and offering local delicacies, warmly welcoming tourists from all over the country.