Footpaths and cycleways stretch through Yizhou city

A footpath and cycleway wind through a park in Yizhou, Hechi, providing an ideal place for local residents to do outdoor exercise. [Photo/Hechi Daily]

Residents in Yizhou city of Hechi, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, are able to enjoy a more relaxing and healthy lifestyle, now that footpaths traversing the whole city are under construction.

A demonstration section that covers 5 km was open to the public recently. The section, expanded from the downtown area to Liu Sanjie township, is attracting many cyclists who enjoy the beautiful views along the route.

"The newly built route is ideal for cycling," said Wei Xiaolong, a student from Hechi University. "We can enjoy more fresh air and beautiful views when we cycle here."

According to the Yizhou municipal commission of tourism development, the footpath project was started in 2015, with an investment of 300 million yuan ($44 million). The footpath will expand in three directions and will cover 241 km across the city.

The construction of sections in Zhuanggulao, Batou, Gexian Temple, Wangmei Stone, Macao Pond, Huixian Mountain and several popular local tourist destinations will start this year.