Tourists admire the scenery along the Yangtze River in Nantong during the May Day holiday. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

Nantong, located in East China's Jiangsu province, welcomed about 5.49 million tourists during the five-day May Day holiday, generating tourism revenue of 2.89 billion yuan ($423.12 million).

As spring transitions into summer, major scenic spots in Nantong have upgraded their cultural and tourism offerings by launching special activities that combine natural beauty with engaging experiences.

During the holiday, Haohe River Scenic Area hosted a variety of events, including music markets, traditional cultural gatherings, nighttime performances and cultural exhibitions. These events have helped turn the historic river into a central cultural and tourism landmark of the city.

The ancient streets and towns, along with suburban scenic areas, each possess their unique charm, blending the bustling atmosphere with natural beauty. Tangzha Ancient Town revived traditional crafts like knife sharpening and sewing. In Bencha Ancient Town, the area transformed into a lively night carnival, featuring food shops lining the streets, flower boat parades and continuous light shows.

Throughout the city, rural tourism spots offered activities such as fruit picking, countryside camping and folk experiences, allowing tourists to enjoy the leisurely pastoral lifestyle. At the Kaisha Island Resort, popular activities included island cycling, fishing, and farm-to-table workshops. In Changle town, a rural study tour centered around Zhang Jian (1853-1926), a renowned patriot, industrial magnate, educator and philanthropist in the city, enabled visitors to experience his legacy and appreciate the cultural heritage of the countryside.