Tourists watch firework displays at a scenic spot in Qidong. [Photo/WeChat account: qdrmt0513]

During the eight-day Spring Festival holiday, the cultural and tourism market in Qidong, Nantong, experienced a surge in popularity. The city welcomed a total of 1.18 million tourists, generating tourism revenue of 1.01 billion yuan ($140.48 million). Compared to the same period in 2023, this marks an impressive increase of 49.1 percent in tourist numbers and 38.2 percent in tourism revenue.

Throughout the holiday period, nearly 100,000 people flocked to Qitang City, where a series of traditional folk performances such as molten iron throwing, dragon and lion dances, fire-breathing dances were staged. Additionally, there were markets featuring sugar blowing, sugar painting, ring toss games, and hands-on experiences.

On Feb 12, the third day of the holiday, Qidong issued discount coupons that could be used at various scenic spots, cultural venues, selected bookstores, cinemas, and commercial districts across the city, further enhancing the holiday experience for both locals and tourists alike.

People gather around a stall selling paintings. [Photo/WeChat account: qdrmt0513]