Shanghai Sees Surge in Cultural and Tourism Consumption During Golden Week

Shanghai, The Gulf Observer: China’s economic powerhouse, Shanghai, is experiencing a significant rise in cultural and tourism activities following the launch of the annual Shanghai Tourism Festival ahead of the week-long National Day holiday, known as “Golden Week.” The festival, which commenced on September 14 and concluded on October 1, drew visitors from across the globe, cementing Shanghai’s position as both a commercial hub and a top tourist destination.

This year marked the 35th edition of the Shanghai Tourism Festival, which showcased dazzling parades and exciting cultural exhibitions, leaving a lasting impression on both residents and travelers. According to data from the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, the festival generated a total tourism consumption of 92.4 billion yuan (approximately 13 billion USD), reflecting a 4.2% increase compared to the previous year. Additionally, the city’s hotel occupancy rate reached 61%, a 2% rise from the last festival.

One of the highlights of the festival was the “Great Art of Dunhuang” exhibition, featuring 168 sets of rare and representative artworks from the Dunhuang Academy collection. Since its launch on September 20, the exhibition has attracted over 40,000 visitors, with more than 200,000 tickets sold. Many young tourists attended the event in traditional Hanfu attire, adding a cultural touch to the festivities.

This year’s festival also saw the return of overseas performance teams after a five-year break. Performers from around the world, including Switzerland, participated in the opening parade and various celebrations. Philipp Betschart, a Swiss performer, praised China’s expanded visa-free policy, noting that it gave foreign artists more time to rehearse and explore the city’s landmarks, including the historic Bund and Zhujiajiao ancient town.

Authorities across Shanghai’s 16 districts organized a range of festive events, transforming the city into an expansive “urban theme park.” A spokesperson from the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism highlighted the city’s ongoing efforts to create innovative tourism experiences, integrating culture, commerce, sports, and exhibitions to attract more visitors both domestically and internationally.

With the conclusion of the festival, Shanghai has once again demonstrated its vibrant cultural and tourism appeal, setting the stage for even greater growth in the years to come.