Changchun kicks off plan to draw Beijing travelers

Major travel agencies in Changchun, capital of Northeast China's Jilin province, and Beijing reached a deal to work together in developing distinctive winter tours across Changchun and the rest of the province on Dec 8.

The goal is to draw Beijing residents to savor Changchun's winter charm.

The northeastern city has launched six routes featuring local folk customs, hot springs and wellness elements for winter vacationers this year.

A series of favorable policies will be launched, including winter sports consumption coupons worth 10.5 million yuan ($1.6 million) and culture and tourism consumption coupons worth 16 million yuan, according to Wang Lu, deputy mayor of Changchun.

The city abounds in winter tourism resources, including powder snow, hot springs and stunning winter forest views.

To date, about 20 daily flights travel from Changchun to Beijing.

The Beijing-Shenyang high-speed rail is expected to start operations by the end of December,  which will cut travel between Changchun and Beijing to about 3.5 hours, adding to the access to Jilin's winter fun.