Key facts
- China is experiencing a boom in "red tourism," with families visiting historical Communist Party sites.
- President Xi Jinping is promoting patriotism through trips to these landmarks.
- The Chinese government has actively supported red tourism since 2005.
- Red tourism aims to promote the national ethos and socioeconomic development in rural areas.
- In 2020, over 100 million people participated in red tourism, accounting for 11% of domestic travel.
China is experiencing a significant increase in "red tourism," a form of travel focused on locations significant to the history of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). This trend is being driven by President Xi Jinping's emphasis on patriotism, with families increasingly combining visits to these historical sites with educational activities for their children during summer breaks. The government officially began promoting red tourism in 2005, aiming to foster a sense of national ethos and boost economic development in typically rural and less affluent regions. Key sites include the former residence of Deng Xiaoping in Guang'an and revolutionary sites in Yan'an, where tourists can engage in historical reenactments and cultural experiences. The concept was formally integrated into the national tourism plan in 2004. In 2020, red tourism saw over 100 million participants, representing 11% of China's domestic travel market, a figure that saw a notable boost due to pandemic-related travel restrictions limiting international options for Chinese citizens.