A total of 1 billion yuan ($140 million) will be invested in the Lianhua (Lotus) Mountain project in Xintai, a county-level city in Tai'an, Shandong province, according to local officials.

The Xintai government signed a joint development agreement on the project with Shandong Cultural Tourism Development Group on Oct 10.

Under the agreement the two sides will cooperate in the construction and operation of the scenic spot and they will share the profit.

Plans are for an area of 19.1 square kilometers on Lianhua Mountain to be developed into a tourist spot by the partners.

A total of 1 billion yuan will be invested to the construct support facilities in the area such as parking lots, cableways, hotels and roads.

Officials said that the partners will work together to improve the tourist experience for visitors to Lianhua Mountain scenic area and increase its popularity.

The aim is to turn Lianhua Mountain scenic area into a leading resort -- integrating tourism, cultural experiences, leisure vacation and sports entertainment.

At present, Xintai has nine A-level scenic spots. Of these, officials said that Lianhua Mountain has the most abundant tourism resources. It has been listed as a national forest park, a world geological park and a national 4A-level scenic spot.

The Xintai government and Shandong Cultural Tourism Development Group sign a joint development agreement on Oct 10. [Photo/dzwww.com]

Lianhua Mountain scenic area is very popular with visitors to Xintai. [Photo/dzwww.com]