Tonglu, a county in Zhejiang province known for its scenic Fuchun River, is implementing a tourism strategy that emphasizes interaction and infrastructure to attract and retain visitors. The approach is evident in attractions like the Chuiyun Tongtian River scenic area, where performers dressed as characters from the classic novel Journey to the West engage with tourists, and in the installation of an aquarium at a highway rest stop.
At the Chuiyun Tongtian River, visitors encounter the "Turtle Immortal," played by Zhang Yunbin, a 26-year-old opera performer who speaks English and Russian. He and a rotating cast of more than 120 performers improvise with guests, encouraging them to joke, ask questions, and participate in short scenes along the boat route through caves. This immersive approach is designed to make visits more memorable and to extend the time tourists spend at each site.
Similar interactive elements are being introduced at other locations such as Yaolin Wonderland and Yan Ziling Fishing Platform. Performers appear as characters from folklore and history, inviting visitors to engage in role-play or listen to stories, thereby adding a layer of engagement beyond passive sightseeing.
One of Tonglu's most unusual experiments is the aquarium at the Tonglu service area on the G25 Expressway. During the May Day holiday, the rest stop featured a large aquarium with mermaid performances, attracting over 80,000 visitors per day. This initiative aims to capture spending from travelers who might otherwise pass through without stopping. County data shows that Tonglu received 1.61 million visits during the holiday, a 13.2% increase from the previous year, and tourism revenue reached 958 million yuan (about $132 million), up 12.4%.
To further boost summer tourism, Tonglu launched a campaign called "Water Play Kingdom: Tonglu Is Wild" in late July, promoting rafting, family activities, village stays, and outdoor recreation. The strategy is to provide a variety of options that encourage visitors to stay for extended periods or return in different seasons.
Tonglu is also preparing for an influx of international travelers. Yaolin township has been selected as a provincial pilot area for inbound-tourism innovation, with efforts to improve multilingual signs, international payment options, and other services. While the county's natural scenery remains its core appeal, the focus is shifting toward creating experiences that involve visitors actively, whether through interacting with costumed performers, enjoying unexpected attractions, or facilitating easier travel for overseas guests.
