Yunxi aims to further develop its tourism industry

By Le Qin ( chinadaily.com.cn )

Updated: 2013-10-18

Yunxi county in Shiyan, central China's Hubei province, is striving to establish a cultural tourism brand and develop its tourism industry, and it is focusing on Qixi, which refers to the Chinese Valentine's Day on the 7th day of the 7th lunar month, 10yan.com reported.

A total of 2.58 million tourists have already visited Yunxi this year, a year-on-year increase of 85.7 percent, resulting in tourism revenue of 150 million yuan ($24.62 million), a year-on-year increase of 82.5 percent.

The county has invested 10 million yuan ($1.64 million) to set up a tourism development fund, including an initiative related to Tianhe Pond where, according to the legend of Qixi, a cowherd, Niulang, met a fairy, Zhinu.

Yunxi boasts four national 4A scenic spots, and has built more than 30 bridges as well as scenic roads, which are all expected to attract more visitors.

In addition, the authorities encourage local farmers to engage in agritainment, which involves farmers supplementing their income by offering options such as pick-your-own initiatives, farm stores, agricultural festivals and educational activities.

And the county is also developing products that could prove popular with tourists, such as silk quilts, walnut oil, wine and dried beancurd.

Edited by Niva Whyman