Lixia's 2025 May Day holiday tourism boom blends heritage with modern appeal

The ancient block bustles with visitors showcasing Lixia's vibrant tourism during the May Day holiday. [Photo/WeChat account: touzilixia]

Lixia district in Jinan, Shandong province, became a cultural and leisure hotspot during the 2025 May Day holiday (May 1 to 5), with themed tours, luxury stays, and immersive festivals fueling an 8.92 percent year-on-year rise in visitors. The ''Lixia Mini-vacation: A Spring Journey in May'' initiative attracted 1.83 million visitors to key attractions like Qianfo Mountain and No 1 Spring Scenic Area. Ticket revenue increased 1.38 percent, reaching 12.15 million yuan ($1.68 million), with strong growth in hotels and homestays, reflecting high demand for personalized travel experiences.

The district's culture and tourism bureau curated three signature routes—Ancient Rhythms of Spring City, Mountain-Spring Dialogue, and Art in Motion—blending Lixia's 2,600-year history with its dynamic arts scene. Niche itineraries, including literary trails and city walks, catered to diverse interests, while partnerships with luxury hotels like Shangri-La and Sheraton enhanced hospitality offerings. Four selected homestays reported a five percent rise in occupancy and an eight percent revenue increase, totaling 155,680 yuan.

The May Day Garden Party at Qianfo Mountain Scenic Area attracts lively crowds to celebrate the holiday. [Photo/WeChat account: touzilixia]

Festivals played a central role in engagement, with Qianfo Mountain hosting hiking challenges, drum dances, and Peking Opera, while No 1 Spring Scenic Area captivated younger travelers with live music and interactive markets. A spokesperson emphasized the importance of cultural storytelling in driving sustainable growth, with hotels showing an 8.64 percent guest increase and collective revenue of 16.5 million yuan. Lixia's tourism model successfully combines tradition with innovation. (Edited by Li Qiaoxingzi)