Rich resources lure visitors around world
Rich in tourist attractions, Sichuan, a southwestern province of China, has made substantial progress in luring visitors from home and abroad with its new policies.
Sichuan is home to the five World Heritage sites of Jiuzhaigou Valley, Huanglong Valley, Mount Emei-Leshan Giant Buddha, Mount Qingcheng-Dujiangyan Irrigation System and Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries.
In addition, Sichuan boasts 182 national scenic spots, 11 first-class protected animals including the golden monkey and wildebeest, and four first-class protected plants.
Another aspect that highlights the natural beauty of Sichuan is its plateau landscape. The stark contrast among plains, hills and mountains makes the area unique and inviting for those who are eager to explore the wonder of nature. The deep forests, snowy mountains and canyons are all breathtaking.
Ancient ruins, such as Sanxingdui in the city of Guanghan and Jinsha in Chengdu, showcase the splendid civilization of ancient Sichuan.
Sichuan cuisine has gained acclaim far and wide for its spicy flavor and elegant style, which has earned Chengdu, its capital city, the reputation as being a world capital for food. The folk culture features a laid-back attitude and a slow lifestyle. The locals spend time in tea houses, talking in different dialects and enjoying delicious snacks.
Sichuan, known for its hospitality, welcomes travelers from all over the world with open arms.
Shuangliu International Airport in Chengdu has made all the tourist spots easily accessible for overseas visitors via the 33 international direct flights it operates.
The new Chengdu Tianfu International Airport, upon completion, will add an extra transport capacity of 69 million passengers per year to the existing system in 2020. Since Sept 1, 2013, Chengdu has carried out the 72-hour visa-free transit policy for visitors from 51 countries including France and the United Kingdom, making it the fourth city in China to offer that kind of convenience to overseas tourists.
(China Daily 11/12/2018 page12)
