Jinan embraces tourism boom over May Day holiday

Jinan, capital city of East China's Shandong province, saw a tourism boom over the May Day holiday from May 1 to 4.

According to statistics from the Jinan culture and tourism bureau, 17 scenic spots including Qianfo Mountain, Jinan Botanical Garden and Baotu Spring Park welcomed a total of 2.1 million tourists, generating revenue of 58.7 million yuan ($8.7 million).

More than 50 cultural activities were held during the holiday, attracting a large number of visitors. They varied from rural leisure and nature sightseeing to folk culture experiences and historical and scientific education.

Homestays and local delicacies became new attractions for tourists. Furong Alley and Kuanhouli Street received more than 100,000 and 300,000 tourists a day respectively for their featured delicacies.

Night tours proved a hit with tourists. Daming Lake staged a unique multimedia water show combining vibrant patterns of splashing water with musical lasers and fireworks. Some traditional drama performances such as crosstalk and Shandong clapper ballad held at Baihuazhou Street also lured many a tourist.

Rural tourism as well proved to be popular during the holiday, with one and two-day tours featuring fruit picking, hot springs and mountain climbing taking place in the area.