China to build more theme parks

BEIJING -- China will build more theme parks in the coming years, a spokesperson from China National Tourism Administration said Sunday.

In the country's 13th Five-Year Plan for the 2016-2020 period, China will encourage tourist areas to integrate with recreation facilities, theaters, and performing centers, according to the spokesperson.

Branded theme parks from overseas will be introduced into China, while domestic theme parks are also encouraged to expand overseas.

An fantasy adventure indoor theme park opened to the public this weekend in Shanxi province. With laser technology and 3-D effects, the theme park aims to offer tourists immersive experiences.

Entertainment companies are strongly encouraged to use hi-tech equipment, according to the spokesperson.

According to a development plan for the tourism industry, China will improve tourism infrastructure and public service facilities while pushing forward innovative development of theme parks.