Cherry blossoms boost tourism, economy in central China

(ECNS) -- As spring unfolds in central China's Hubei Province, cherry blossoms are in full bloom, driving a surge in flower-viewing tours.

According to statistics from the Wuhan Immigration Inspection Station, as of Monday, the number of foreigners through Wuhan Tianhe Airport has reached 11,600, marking a 23.83 percent increase year-on-year. 

Most travelers came from South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, the United States, and Japan, with over 60 percent entering for sightseeing and tourism.

Li Zhi, general manager of Hubei Overseas International Travel Agency, stated that the number of tour groups enjoying the cherry blossoms, including those received and booked, has exceeded 100 this year, with the total number of visitors increasing by 15 percent year-on-year.

According to the Hubei Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, the region has received more than 20 inbound cherry blossom tour groups daily in recent days. In the coming week, additional groups from the United States, Russia, and Spain will arrive for cherry blossom viewing. The high-speed rail tour from Hong Kong and chartered flights for study tours are also on their way.

Wuhan, Xiangyang, Yichang, Enshi, and Jingmen cities have become popular destinations for both domestic and international tourists. 

In the week following last Monday, hotel searches in Hubei increased by 35 percent compared to the previous period, while bookings rose by nearly 10 percent, according to Ctrip.

Deng Aimin, director of the Tourism Research Institute at Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, stated that flowers attract visitors to a city, but sustainable tourism development requires more action. Efforts should be made to improve services and expand consumption opportunities to turn "visitor traffic" into "visitor retention."

Recently, a pink cherry blossom version of the "Suan Niao" soft toys, a popular product inspired by the Wuhan dialect, has captivated countless fans. 

Last Tuesday, these toys sold out soon after release, sparking nationwide enthusiasm among tourists. The adorable yellow bird, with a green garlic sprout on its head, has gained widespread popularity thanks to its unique connection to the Wuhan dialect and charming design, making it one of the most sought-after cultural products this spring.

Many tourists said that these plush toys are not only adorable but also help children learn about local culture. Additionally, squeezing them can be a great stress reliever.

Deng suggested that Hubei should innovate its tourism products year-round, breaking the seasonal limitations of the cherry blossom economy. By expanding the "cherry blossom+" industry chain, the province can create more diversified and continuous consumption opportunities.(By Gong Weiwei)