Strolling through greenery, admiring blossoms, savoring delicacies, experiencing folk customs - an increasing number of Chinese tourists are stepping out of their homes this spring to enjoy the beauty of the season. According to the China Tourism Academy, the Qingming Festival's three-day holiday saw domestic tourism surge to 119 million trips, marking an 11.5% increase over the same period in 2019. Expenditure by domestic tourists reached 53.95 billion yuan, rising by 12.7% compared to 2019. A significant contributor to this boost is intellectual property, which enhances the quality and efficiency of spring tourism and invigorates the "springtime economy".
This spring, Tianshui in Gansu Province has become a culinary hotspot, riding on the "sizzling hot" trend. Following Zibo's "grilled food rush" last year, Tianshui has elevated its spicy hotpot to a popular delicacy. The dish's fiery appeal draws tourists nationwide, eager to savor its signature hand-pulled noodles and potato slices drenched in spicy chili oil.
By simmering oil with Sichuan peppercorns, fragrant leaves, star anise, and scallions, chefs create a refreshingly aromatic base. This oil is then poured over chili powder, crushed walnuts, and white sesame seeds to prepare a pot of fragrant and spicy chili oil. Dipping freshly cooked vegetables into this soulful sauce provides an instant soothing effect on the palate. What might seem like a simple spicy hotpot is actually a sophisticated assembly of high-quality specialty agricultural products from across Gansu. Each ingredient, bearing a geographical indication trademark, contributes to a bowl of Tianshui spicy hotpot brimming with the flavors of Gansu Province.
Since the beginning of spring, regions throughout China have been innovating in cultural tourism development with the "flower appreciation +" model. This approach combines traditional spring outings with a variety of experiences including folk traditions, educational tours, and musical events. This blend not only offers visitors novel experiences but also continually stimulates the cultural tourism market, providing a dynamic and multifaceted approach to exploring China's rich cultural heritage.
In Luoyang City, Henan Province, the peonies are in full bloom, flourishing with a beauty that seems almost ethereal. In 2020, "Luoyang Peony" was registered as a geographical indication trademark, making it an increasingly beautiful card in Luoyang. The city is currently hosting the 41st China Luoyang Peony Culture Festival, drawing numerous visitors both domestically and internationally. Featuring literary and artistic performances, immersive flower viewing experiences, and exhibitions of fine arts and calligraphy, the festival offers more than just the stunning visual spectacle of peonies. Visitors have the opportunity to delve deep into Chinese culture and traditions, enjoy breathtaking landscapes, and feel the charm of this ancient capital.
The magnolia, Shanghai City's official flower, presents a captivating scene with trees laden with blossoms as white as jade and pure as snow. These pristine flowers provide a tranquil setting for both citizens and tourists who wander beneath them, enjoying the birdsong, floral scents, and delights of spring. To prolong the blooming period and enhance adaptability to Shanghai's climate, the Institute of Botany at the Shanghai Academy of Landscape Architecture Science and Planning has successfully bred 33 superior new strains of white magnolia. Six of these strains have been recognized with new plant variety rights.
As spring unfolds, visitors not only revel in outings and flower viewing, but also engage in the popular pastime of kite flying. The Weifang kite, with a history spanning over 2,000 years, is recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage of China. The craft of kite making, involving the construction of the framework, painting, pasting, and flying, has been infused with modern technological advancements, injecting new vitality into this ancient art. The upcoming 41st Weifang International Kite Festival will attract kite enthusiasts worldwide, showcasing the skies speckled with diverse kites. This festival not only enhances the beauty of spring skies, but also elevates the global reputation of Weifang kites.
The "springtime economy" reflects people's aspirations for a better life, with intellectual property serving as a critical catalyst for the ongoing improvement and resurgence of China's economy.