Traditionally a slow season, China's summer tourism market is heating up as foreign visitors arrive in record numbers and venture beyond the country's traditional megacities.

Data from online payment platform Alipay shows that from June onward, consumption by inbound tourists rose 72.9 percent year on year.
In addition to traditional hot destinations like Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Beijing, cities including Harbin, Dalian, Changchun, Guiyang and Xining have also gained popularity among international travelers, with consumption growing notably.
In the eastern Chinese province of Zhejiang, a number of smaller cities have drawn overseas visitors with thrilling outdoor activities.
At the Huxiao Gorge scenic area in Tonglu County, Hangzhou City, rafts weave through the rapids as tourists enjoy the splashes amid lush mountains and clear waters. Following the water activities, visitors can drive off-road go-karts up the mountain to a paragliding base 360 meters above sea level for a wind-riding flight.
"It was my first paragliding experience ever. At first, I was a little scared, but when it started, I felt super safe because the coach is very experienced. He has over 10 years of experience. So I felt amazing," Russian tourist Tina said after experiencing the thrill of paragliding.
From January to June this year, Changxing County in Huzhou City recorded more than 17,500 overnight inbound visitors, up 77.79 percent year on year. Recently, a newly built indoor water park in the area has also seen a surge in international tourists.
"It's definitely most comfortable to play in the water on such a hot day. There are so many recreation facilities here, and they are close to each other, very convenient. We are having a great time," said Ishvanchig, a tourist from Mongolia.
According to statistics, foreign tourists have visited nearly 500 cities across China.