China's 'Red Tourism' Sector Experiences Monumental Surge in Visitors

A Nationwide Phenomenon

China's 'red tourism' sector, which encourages visits to historical sites pivotal to the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) revolutionary past, is experiencing an unprecedented boom. This movement has transformed into a significant component of the nation's domestic travel industry, drawing millions of citizens to locations that commemorate the sacrifices and triumphs that shaped modern China. Corporate travel agencies tracking bookings suggest that the number of visits to red tourism sites now exceeds 2 billion annually.

Historical Roots and Ideological Goals

The concept of red tourism, known in Mandarin Chinese as '红色旅游' (hóng sè zhī lǚ), was officially launched in 2004, with the Chinese government actively supporting its development since 2005. Its primary objectives are multifaceted: to promote the 'national ethos,' strengthen revolutionary traditions, enhance patriotism, and foster a unique national spirit. By visiting these sites, the government aims to educate citizens, particularly younger generations, about the CCP's history and instill a sense of national pride and 'historical confidence' in socialism.

Key Destinations and Immersive Experiences

Numerous sites across China hold profound significance for red tourists. Among the most popular destinations are:

• Yan'an: Often referred to as the 'holy land' of China's Communist Party revolution, it served as Mao Zedong's revolutionary base after the Long March.
• Shaoshan: The birthplace of Mao Zedong in Hunan Province, a pilgrimage site for many.
• Jinggangshan: Known as the 'cradle of the Chinese Communist Revolution,' where Mao Zedong established the first rural base in 1927.
• Zunyi: Located in Guizhou province, it was the site of the pivotal Zunyi Conference in January 1935, which solidified Mao Zedong's leadership during the Long March.
• Nanchang: The capital of Jiangxi Province, significant as the site of the Nanchang Uprising on August 1, 1927, which marked the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army.

Visitors to these sites often engage in immersive experiences, such as renting and dressing in Chinese Red Army garb, chanting admission oaths, attending lectures, and participating in role-playing activities that recreate historical events.

Economic Catalyst and Community Development

Beyond its political and educational aims, red tourism serves as a significant economic driver, particularly for regions that were historically rural and less developed. The government's promotion of red tourism is a strategy to accelerate the growth of local economies in these inland provinces, many of which are the 'cradles of the communist revolution.' This initiative has been instrumental in alleviating poverty, creating jobs, and stimulating local businesses. The anticipated economic boost from red tourism is substantial, with some estimates suggesting an additional 20 billion yuan annually. Between 2016 and 2020, the budgeted spending on red tourism was approximately $370 million, yielding significant returns, with red sites accounting for 10% of domestic tourism spending in 2018. The government has also invested in infrastructure, building 2,442 kilometers of roads between 2017 and 2020 to connect revolutionary sites, with over 90% of these roads in central and western China.

Reinforcing National Identity

The surge in red tourism reflects a broader effort to reinforce national identity and cohesion among the Chinese populace. It provides a tangible link to the nation's revolutionary past, allowing citizens to connect with the struggles and sacrifices that underpin the foundation of the People's Republic of China. This domestic travel trend has gained particular prominence at a time when international travel has yet to fully recover, making these historical sites a central focus for those seeking to understand and honor their country's transformative journey.