Sanya: most popular destination for sports tourism in China

China Tourism Academy and Mafengwo recently released the "2021 China Sports Tourism Consumption Report", which indicates that Sanya has risen to the top spot as being the most popular sports tourism destination in the country.

According to the report, China's sports tourism shows significant characteristics of youthfulness, with the post-90s tourists accounting for 40 percent. In addition to running and cycling, young people devote more time and energy to emerging sports, such as diving, sailing, surfing, and skiing.

Many cities in Hainan province, the Yangtze River Delta area, and the Bohai Rim area have become popular destinations for sports tourism. Qingdao Sailing Center, a water sports destination, topped the 2019 and 2021 lists. Sanya Sailing Port ranked second on the 2021 list. With the popularization of diving sports, more and more tourists are attracted to Sanya, making Sanya the first-choice city for water sports.

Surfing has become one of the most popular sports among young people. According to incomplete statistics from the Sanya Surfing Association, there were 67 surfing clubs in 2020. The number of surfing clubs has also surged to over 100 this year.

Wakesurfing is a new sport that has emerged throughout the world in the past decade. It allows surfers to express their style and perform tricks. It has less restrictions on age, sport level or gender, and attracts a large number of water sports enthusiasts.

Yachting and sailing have become gradually popular among ordinary people in recent years. Tourists can experience instructor-led sea outings in the waters offshore Sanya.

Diving in Sanya has also become a favored sport. The waters of Sanya are very clear and clean, and tourists can view the vibrant underwater wildlife while diving. International diving experts have regarded Sanya as one of the most suitable diving destinations in the South Pacific.