He said he believes that to be the biggest reason for the province's under-developed tourist market. Another reason is the lack of accommodation facilities.

"Taiyuan, the provincial capital, has only one five-star hotel, while a small town in south Chinese Guangdong Province may have more," he said.

Yu, in his 50's, was mayor of Shenzhen, China's most energetic economic zone. The citizens recognized his frankness, courage and passion.

He talked with an Internet journalist face to face for two hours for the influential article, "Who abandons Shenzhen," which cast a widespread shadow on the southern Chinese city's future.

Instead of a blunt blocking, his deftly dealing won his applause.