Where heritage meets innovation: Tai'an's blueprint for future travel

For centuries, Tai'an was synonymous with Taishan Mountain, the revered UNESCO dual-heritage site that drew pilgrims and tourists alike. The challenge was clear: how to transform visitors who came "for the mountain" into guests who stay "for the city"? Tai'an's innovative answer lies in a strategic shift from a single iconic peak to an integrated regional experience.

Moving away from the "one-mountain dominance" model, Tai'an has reorganized its assets under the Taishan Mountain Culture and Tourism Group, adopting an integrated development strategy to promote the combined development of the mountain and comprehensive tourism.

This vision expands the tourist trail far beyond the traditional climbing routes. To the south, the Yellow River-Dawen River corridor links three national cultural parks, including the Dawenkou Archaeological Site Park, designated as a National Archaeological Site Park in June 2025. This centuries-old cultural heritage site has been transformed into a perceptible and experiential space for cultural and tourism engagement.

Technology is a key catalyst in this transformation. On the challenging Shibapan (18 Steepest Stairs), 1.8-kilogram AI-powered exoskeletons have become a viral sensation, reducing climb time for older visitors by half and attracting tech fans.

Digital innovation also brings heritage to life: VR resurrects ancient murals at the "divine journey of Taishan Mountain" experience hall, an international cultural big-data center digitizes vast ancient texts, and digital collectibles promote mountain lore.

The charm extends to rural vitalization. In Wanglinpo village, the folk culture and lifestyle experience zone revitalizes idle homesteads into a bustling lane where visitors enjoy steamed buns and handmade pancakes, allowing locals to benefit from tourism.

From chicken-cooking festivals that spark thriving industries to youth music festivals that boost visitor numbers, Tai'an's lively events consistently capture attention. By weaving together heritage, technology, countryside charm, and contemporary culture, Tai'an is successfully writing its new chapter — not just as a gateway to a sacred mountain, but as a dynamic, stay-worthy destination in its own right.

Building on its unique local resources, Tai'an city delves deep into its cultural heritage while expanding the "Taishan Mountain +" initiative. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]