Gannan targets 60 million tourists by 2030 with tourism push

With its pristine natural landscapes, like sprawling grasslands and snowcapped peaks, Gannan Tibetan autonomous prefecture in Gansu province offers a feast for the senses. Combined with its rich ethnic culture and deep historical roots, the region attracts travelers seeking both adventure and spiritual fulfillment.

"Gannan will implement the strategy of using cultural tourism as a pillar industry, with high-quality development as the core theme," said Yang Zhenlin, the Communist Party of China secretary for the prefecture and a deputy to the 14th National People's Congress. He attended the fourth session of the 14th National People's Congress held from March 5 to 12 in Beijing.

He said Gannan will systematically launch 10 projects for the upgrading of scenic areas, promotion of industrial integration and expansion, expansion of cultural tourism consumption, enhancement of brand image, creation of outstanding artistic works, advancement of intangible cultural heritage inheritance, protection and utilization of cultural relics, enrichment of public cultural services, optimization of the market environment, and promotion of regional collaborative development.

The ultimate goal is to make Gannan a year-round ecotourism destination and attract more than 60 million visitors by 2030.

Yang said Gannan will accelerate the construction of railways and highways, and develop high-standard tourist facilities including tourist centers, eco-friendly parking lots, and smart tourism services, with the aim of improving accessibility for tourists.

He suggested developing eco-friendly tourism, ice and snow tourism, agro-pastoral tourism, study tours, and self-driving and camping.

Yang said it's vital to promote the local cuisine and offer signature dishes that cater to public tastes and highlight Gannan's unique flavors. Efforts should be made to develop characteristic accommodation services including budget hotels and boutique homestays, so as to promote sustained income growth for locals.

He also suggested developing cultural and creative products that embody Gannan's distinctive features and meet market demand, such as handicrafts.