Experts explore sustainable development of mountain tourism in Tai'an

The "Beautiful China Tour", a large-scale national publicity campaign promoting ecological civilization and cultural heritage, held its Taishan Mountain session on Oct 20 in Tai'an, Shandong province.

Representatives from China's major mountain scenic areas, together with experts, scholars and cultural figures, gathered to explore pathways for the coordinated development of mountain-based scenic destinations.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the concept of "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets". Zhang Yongli, president of the China Association of National Parks and Scenic Sites, said in his speech that over the years strong efforts have been made in promoting the high-quality and sustainable development of China's mountain scenic areas. 

Stunning rime-covered landscapes on Taishan Mountain draw in tourists. [Photo/Taishan Mountain Scenic Area]

Dong Ruizhong, deputy director of the Department of Natural Resources of Shandong Province said that Shandong has strengthened policy guidance, planning, and supervision to protect its scenic resources, adding that the event aligns closely with Shandong's approach of integrating ecological protection with cultural and tourism development. 

Tang Chuanying, vice-mayor of Tai'an, said that the event marks a new starting point for cooperation among China's iconic mountain scenic areas and highlights the achievements that Taishan Mountain scenic area has made in environmental and cultural preservation. 

During the lecture on "Collaborative Development of Mountain Scenic Areas", experts from Tsinghua University, Taishan University, and the West Lake Scenic Area shared insights on cultural heritage, digital innovation, and sustainable management, offering guidance for the transformation and upgrading of mountain scenic areas.

At the "Beautiful China Dialogue" roundtable forum, representatives from China's major mountain scenic areas, including Huashan Mountain in Shaanxi province, Hengshan Mountain in Hunan province, Songshan Mountain in Henan province, Hengshan Mountain in Shanxi province and Huangshan Mountain in Anhui province, discussed joint efforts in promoting environmental protection, cultural confidence and smart tourism. 

Participants agreed that technological innovation and cultural integration are key to transforming natural advantages into shared economic and social benefits.

（chinadaily.com.cn）