Tourism boom spices up ancient Silk Road

The economy of Altay prefecture in Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region is getting a boost from millions of travelers seeking ancient Silk Road views and local residents starting related businesses.

Revenue from tourism and related businesses reached 3.5 billion yuan ($509 million) in the first half of 2018, up by 89.3 percent year-on-year. Tourist visits hit 4.48 million, up by 37.6 percent year-on-year.

"More local residents have seen the market potential and started running businesses such as restaurants, shops and hotels," said Zhang Suhong, head of Altay city's tourism bureau. "Tourism has become a driving force of local economic development."