The scenery at Langshan National Forest Park in Nantong. [Photo/ntfabu.com]

The Nantong bureau of culture, broadcasting, television and tourism has strengthened epidemic prevention and control measures in the culture and tourism sectors to minimize the risk of the spread of COVID-19, local media outlets reported.

All A-level scenic areas, hotels and cultural venues must now limit their visitor numbers and avoid unnecessary gatherings.

In response to the new requirements, the Binjiang swimming pool has been closed since July 24. All temples on Langshan Mountain, Jianshan Mountain and Junshan Mountain in the Langshan National Forest Park have also been closed since July 29. Other indoor venues in the park have capped their visitor capacity at 50 percent.

All scenic areas have adopted online booking systems that require the use of real names for registration. Tourists must wear masks, have their temperature taken, and present their health and travel history QR codes before entering the areas.

In addition, performances such as circus shows in the Nantong Safari Forest Park and puppet shows at Rugao Bonsai Art Expo Park have been suspended.

The culture and tourism bureau has been conducting spot checks on all cultural venue and tourist destinations since early August to ensure epidemic prevention and control measures are being implemented.