Counties and prefectures across China have been tapping into their distinctive cultural and tourism resources this summer to explore new models that integrate culture, tourism and sports to attract hordes of tourists.

Coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the completion and commissioning of China's Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Radio Telescope (FAST), the world's largest single-dish radio telescope, the Qiannan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture in southwest China's Guizhou Province, has used the landmark as a focal point to organize distinctive cultural and tourism events, allowing visitors to experience China's technological prowess and regional cultural charm.
Meanwhile, members of the Buyi, Miao, Shui, and Yao ethnic groups, among others, paraded in traditional attire, singing and dancing as they showcased the rich ethnic traditions and the charm of intangible cultural heritage through a grand procession.
Leveraging the ecological advantages of the karst landscape and a forest coverage rate of 68 percent, the prefecture has launched a selection of premium summer themed itineraries, including eco-tourism, outdoor adventures, family-friendly experiences, and culinary tours, to attract tourists from around the world.
"So, coming here, I was very surprised that in the middle of the mountains, they have such a scientific exhibition hall connected to the telescope. There are so much going on here. It's such a good place for the kids to come and learn," said Adam, a British tourist.
The 22nd Chinese University Climbing Championship was held in Gaotang County of Liaocheng City in east China's Shandong Province this week, with more than 500 student athletes from 90 universities across the country participating.
Outside the competition grounds, a series of events including bonfire parties and open-air concerts took place one after another.
Gaotang is famed for Chinese painting and calligraphy. During the sports event, local organizers invited renowned masters of painting and calligraphy to the venue to create works on the spot, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of traditional culture during breaks from the competition.
In Zhenglan Banner, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, a series of art events are continuously energizing cultural tourism across the grassland pastoral areas.
The vast prairie has been transformed into an open-air gallery. A diverse array of contemporary art forms including sculptures, installations, performance art, and sound art have been brought deep into the heart of the pastoral region.