Shenyang sets tourism goals for 2017

Shenyang in Northeast China’s Liaoning province held a tourism conference to review the achievements of the industry during 2016 and to set goals for this year, according to a report in the Shenyang Daily on March 13.

During 2016, around 64.6 million visitors came to Shenyang, representing year-on-year growth of 13.1 percent and generating revenues of 58.37 billion yuan ($8.44 billion), up 13 percent on the previous year.

In addition, Shenyang opened another three 4A-level scenic spots in 2016, bringing national-level scenic spots in Shenyang to 100.

Furthermore, the tourism industry has set a goal for Shenyang to achieve a 14 percent increase in tourist arrivals this year, bringing the total to around 73.6 million; and a goal of earning tourism income of at least 66 billion yuan.

Shenyang is to make efforts in three areas to reach its new goal, including developing new scenic spots, launching more tourism products and improving tourism facilities.

The city plans to start construction work on 68 tourism projects with a total investment of 53.2 billion yuan in 2017, and foreign investment of $10 million.

Shengjing Ancient City, and Shenyang Film and Television Base are the investment priorities out of the 68 tourism projects, according to the director of Shenbei New Area of Shenyang. The director also claimed that the investment volume of the two projects has reached 6 billion yuan and 20.6 billion respectively.

Meanwhile, Shenyang is to improve tourism facilities in rural areas, including building parking lots, toilets, shops, signage and first aid stations.

Around 140 new toilets will be upgraded or built in Shenyang to provide extra convenience for tourists, and unisex toilets are expected to be available in 4A-level and 5A-level scenic spots.

The city will increase its tourist attractions by launching no less than 10 new tourism activities, with a focus on ice and snow activities and local folk art performances.