In the heart of China’s Guizhou province lies Guiyang, a city embracing an innovative “tourism+” model. This model aims to enhance the tourist experience by promoting a holistic integration of culture, health, agriculture, and ecology.
The narrative begins with a tourist, Ma Xiaohui, who shares her positive experience in Guiyang, facilitated by the city’s efficient transportation and diverse attractions, according to a press release.
Guiyang, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich ethnic cultures, is leveraging these assets to develop a unique tourism model. This model encompasses four integrations: culture + tourism, health + tourism, agriculture + tourism, and ecology + tourism.
Each integration offers distinct experiences like ethnic cultural immersion, health and wellness activities, agricultural experiences, and eco-friendly tourism programs.
The ecology + tourism integration emphasizes eco-friendly tourism programs. Guiyang, with its lush green landscapes and pristine water bodies, offers various eco-tourism activities like hiking, bird watching, and nature photography, allowing tourists to explore the natural beauty while promoting environmental conservation.
The culture + tourism integration aims to provide visitors with an authentic experience of Guiyang’s rich ethnic heritage. Tourists can immerse themselves in the local traditions, festivals, and culinary delights, creating a deeper connection between the visitors and the city’s cultural essence.
On the other hand, the health + tourism integration focuses on promoting wellness and relaxation. Guiyang offers a variety of health and wellness activities, including traditional Chinese medicine treatments, spa retreats, and wellness resorts, allowing tourists to rejuvenate both physically and mentally.
Agriculture + tourism integration provides a unique opportunity for visitors to engage in agricultural activities. Tourists can visit local farms, participate in fruit picking, and learn about sustainable farming practices. This integration not only educates visitors about agriculture but also promotes sustainable tourism.
Innovative infrastructural developments like the Sky Bridge Service Area and the Pingtang Grand Bridge are highlighted as catalysts for regional economic growth and tourism. These infrastructures not only enhance connectivity but also provide unique architectural experiences to visitors.
Furthermore, under the Pingtang Grand Bridge, a fruit farming base has been established, symbolizing the blend of agriculture and tourism in Guiyang. This initiative showcases how infrastructural developments can be harmoniously integrated with natural and agricultural landscapes.
The potential challenges and opportunities the “tourism+” model presents for Guiyang are worth exploring. While the model opens avenues for sustainable tourism and economic growth, ensuring the preservation of cultural and natural heritage amidst growing tourist influx poses a challenge.
The “tourism+” model is not just a tourism development strategy but a vision for sustainable and inclusive growth. It reflects Guiyang’s commitment to promoting a balanced co-existence of cultural heritage, health and wellness, agricultural sustainability, and ecological conservation.