Beijing's tourism map shows yearlong cultural events

Beijing, the Chinese capital known for its rich culture and long history, is stepping up efforts to attract more residents and tourists by showcasing its unique charm and modern allure through a series of consumption upgrades.

Chen Lijuan, who recently visited the Yuandadu Relics Park in Chaoyang district, said it was her first time rowing a boat in the city, gliding across clear water bordered by blooming Malus spectabilis trees, also known as Chinese crabapple trees.

"It's especially beautiful, creating a picturesque scene," said Chen, who brought her daughter to experience boating while enjoying the warm spring flowers.

This year, Yuandadu Relics Park, also known as the Yuan Dynasty Capital City Wall Site Park, introduced flower-decorated boats for the first time, offering visitors a romantic flower-viewing experience that has drawn many like Chen.

According to official data from Chaoyang district, the park welcomed more than 521,700 visitors in the first half of April, averaging around 52,200 daily, a 20.3 percent increase compared with the same period last year.

In Beijing, three parks are best known for their blossom festivals: Yuandadu Relics Park, Beijing Yuyuantan Park and China National Botanical Garden. In the past, parks typically closed around 9 pm.

In 2022, Chaoyang district took the lead in making Yuandadu Relics Park boundaryless by removing its walls and 19 gates. With no more closing times, visitors can now enjoy flower viewing whenever they wish.

To further enhance the experience, the park has organized leisure markets, performances and food stands during the blossom season.

"We have put over 10 adorable cars in the park, offering coffee, wine, food and blossom-themed cultural products, aiming to bring convenience and a poetic time for visitors," said Zhang Hongtao, director of Yuandadu Relics Park.

Beyond flower-viewing upgrades, other cultural and entertainment activities in Beijing are also enhancing their services.

For example, the just-concluded Beijing International Film Festival offered moviegoers discounts at designated restaurants and malls with purchased tickets, along with free drinks at some bars. Many cinemas also handed out limited-edition posters as souvenirs for fans.

"This year's festival gave me a comprehensive experience. Apart from watching movies, I enjoyed many different pleasures, like dining, souvenir shopping and making friends at after-movie events," said Wang Xu, a movie fan who traveled from Hebei province. "Everything is more convenient and enjoyable."

More exciting experiences are also planned for Beijing throughout the year.

Last week, Beijing State-owned Assets Management Co announced key public events planned for the year. According to the company, the National Stadium is expected to host more than 50 large-scale performances, such as concerts, throughout the year, with an estimated audience of more than 2.8 million — potentially setting a new record.

The National Aquatics Center will also host several art exhibitions, creating an immersive cultural and leisure space for residents and visitors.