China’s tourism industry gradually back on track

Chinese travelers are flocking to major scenic spots nationwide after being cooped up at home for months during the novel coronavirus outbreak.

Tens of thousands of tourists wearing facemasks showed up at Huangshan Mountain in eastern China's Anhui province during the Qingming, or Tomb-Sweeping Day, holiday from April 4 to 6.

The mountain resort's administration had to temporarily shut the gates after visitor numbers soon surpassed its daily capacity of 20,000 on April 5.

About 4,000 scenic spots have reopened since COVID-19 has essentially been brought under control in China.

Over 2,800 destinations, including more than 140 top-rated attractions, currently offer online booking through Shanghai-based online travel agency Trip.com.

Many have developed favorable policies, such as discounted or free entry and accommodation, to attract visitors.

More than 30 star-rated scenic spots in Anhui's Huangshan city offered free access to local residents from April 1 to 13, the city's culture and tourism bureau reports.

The pent-up energy after isolation and good weather in Huangshan contributed to the traveler numbers during the holiday, says an official with the bureau.