April 2025 marked a turning point for cultural tourism in China, as museums, historical sites, and performing arts venues saw a surge in attendance. Museums in Beijing, Nanjing, and Chengdu reported record visitor numbers, driven largely by young people interested in history and design.
The National Museum of China launched several high-tech exhibitions featuring augmented reality (AR) and interactive storytelling, drawing attention from both domestic and international audiences. Meanwhile, heritage cities like Pingyao and Lijiang continued to attract travelers eager to experience traditional Chinese lifestyles.
Festivals celebrating intangible cultural heritage, such as calligraphy, paper-cutting, and puppetry, have also gained popularity. Many of these events offer hands-on workshops, allowing visitors to engage directly with artisans.
Experts believe that the growing interest in cultural tourism reflects a deeper desire among Chinese youth to connect with their roots and appreciate the richness of China’s 5,000-year-old civilization.