Jingshan:Tourism in China has traditionally focused on major attractions, but during this year's National Day holiday, some residents opted for unique experiences, such as attending sporting events. Wang Xin, a resident of Dongguan, traveled about 1,000 kilometers to Jingshan in Hubei Province to watch the Jingshan Tennis Open and explore the local scenery.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the National Day holiday, which lasted from October 1 to 7, saw an estimated 2.13 billion cross-regional passenger trips across China. During this period, homestay bookings for four-to-six-night stays rose by 24% compared to the previous year, with a notable increase in county-level destinations.

Jingshan, known as China's "hometown of tennis," has been a center for the sport for over 40 years. During the tournament, match ticket holders were offered discounts at over 100 local businesses. Vendors and local businesses, such as Zuo Meng's knitted products shop and Peng Jufang's farm tennis club, benefited from the influx of tourists.

Other destinations also attracted visitors looking for cultural experiences. In Ruicheng County, Shanxi Province, Wang Yinan visited the Yongle Palace, inspired by the animation "All Wishes Come True." The site has become a popular destination, particularly for young people, and provides customized services linking murals to scenes from the film.

Moreover, the ancient town of Fenghuang in Hunan Province continued to draw tourists after the Mid-Autumn Festival. International visitors, such as Lucas Martin from France and Emma Wilson from Australia, explored the unique culture and traditions of the area, enjoying activities like dressing in Miao ceremonial costumes.

China has implemented visa-free policies and extended transit periods to encourage international tourism, leading to a 19.5% increase in foreign nationals crossing the border in the first eight months of 2026. These initiatives aim to blend traditional culture with modern life, making travel more convenient and engaging.

Experts note that county-level tourism is gaining popularity due to the diverse experiences and affordability it offers. Improved transportation infrastructure, including the expansion of high-speed rail, has made these destinations more accessible, contributing to the growth of local economies.