Last year, Yunnan province saw a huge surge in visitors, with overnight stays increasing by 168%. About 3.9 million travelers explored the region, making it a popular destination.
This growth is part of a trend called “traveling and residing in Yunnan,” which Governor Wang Yubo highlighted in a recent government report. The province hopes to attract 6 million long-term visitors this year.
Sojourners are those who come from outside the province and stay for two weeks or longer. Many are drawn by tourism, leisure, health, outdoor activities, or remote work. Most visitors are domestic travelers.
According to early estimates, 2024 will welcome about 3.89 million sojourners, marking a 20.7% increase from the previous year. A growing number of seniors are also finding Yunnan appealing for health and relaxation.
“Yunnan is becoming a favorite for elderly care and living,” shared Zhu Zhiqiang, a representative of the provincial congress. His company is creating a cultural tourism project in Yuanmou that encourages seniors to enjoy the local lifestyle.
In Yuanmou, visitors can rent apartments for around 3,000 yuan ($410) monthly. This includes meals, hot spring access, and entertainment facilities. The average house price in the area is about 4,000 yuan per square meter, and there are subsidies available for homebuyers.
Currently, about 90,000 people live in Yuanmou, making up nearly half of the local population. The natural landscapes, rich culture, and pleasant weather of Yunnan continue to attract people from near and far.
In November, local authorities launched a three-year plan to develop over 3,000 villages for sojourners by 2027. Tuguachong in Qujing is a prime example, where a local company transformed 120 unused houses into vibrant community spaces, including cafes and art studios.
“New residents include artists, writers, and yoga instructors,” noted Wu Jing, vice-mayor of Qujing. The village encourages collaborations between local farmers and businesses, allowing villagers to engage in agriculture and small enterprises like restaurants.
With six villages catering to sojourners operating at over 90% capacity, Qujing is exploring potential developments in 331 more villages. Efforts to improve resources and infrastructure for visitors are underway, promising a bright future for Yunnan’s tourism.
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