Tongzhou district in Nantong experienced a cultural tourism boom and a notable uptick in consumption during the recently concluded May Day holiday.

By launching a series of promotional initiatives, five major commercial complexes achieved a sales turnover of nearly 39 million yuan ($5.38 million), with the top three best-selling products being fruit, milk, and snacks.

Catering businesses introduced innovative promotions for the holiday, such as multi-person buffet discounts and the launch of seasonal dishes. Three monitored accommodation and catering enterprises generated approximately 8.73 million yuan from dining services and over 470,000 yuan in accommodation revenue.

Popular local attractions, including Zhou Ji Green Expo Garden, Zhouji Dream Island, and Flower Town, drew large crowds. In addition to the stunning natural vistas, such as romantic rose alleys and magnificent flower fields, a spectacular lineup of performances was showcased, featuring artificial intelligence (AI) humanoid robot shows, mesmerizing datiehua (striking iron flowers) displays, and circus acts. During the holiday, scenic areas above AAA level and provincial-level tourist and leisure zones across the district welcomed 230,000 visitors.

Rural tourism also flourished, with crowds of tourists flocking to Dongshe town's idyllic ecological farm and Shigang town's agricultural tourism sites for immersive study-tour experiences.

Additionally, the annual Tongzhou Cultural and Tourism Carnival, with its array of exciting activities, captured widespread attention and attracted over 100,000 participants.

The annual Tongzhou Cultural and Tourism Carnival takes place during the May Day holiday. [Photo/WeChat account: wxtzfb]