Into China's dreamscape beyond the clouds
Zhangjiajie is emerging as a must-see destination for global travelers, Xu Lin and He Chun report.
Tailored small-group tours, such as hiking, photography, and geological study programs, will be designed for markets like Europe and North America.
Leveraging the region's exceptional ecosystem, the national forest park will cooperate with global health institutions to develop wellness products such as forest therapy.
The park has hosted thrilling international outdoor sports activities that attract participants from home and abroad, such as trail running, an extreme swing competition on an over-300-meter-high cliff, and a slackline walking competition.
"We're also committed to fusing the national forest park's fairy-tale scenery with authentic Tujia ethnic group culture. We provide a dual experience for global travelers, a nature epic paired with cultural immersion," Tuo says.
He believes that tourism is one of the best ways to keep culture alive. The scenic area supports local intangible cultural heritage inheritors to interact with tourists and perform for them.
The park will establish intangible cultural heritage workshops including Tujia brocade weaving and Miao silver jewelry making, allowing tourists to create their own pieces and take them home as unique souvenirs.
"Ecological protection is our inviolable red line. For years, we have steadfastly implemented a phased relocation project for residents in the heritage site's core area, updated protection regulations, and advanced the revision of overall management plans. Also, all new projects must undergo strict environmental impact assessments," he says.
"When local residents benefit from tourism development, they will become the staunchest guardians of the heritage site. We train and employ locals in the tourism industry and support them to run snack businesses," he says.
