As one of the first provincial-level nighttime cultural and tourism consumption clusters, the Biancheng Chadong Scenic Area in Huayuan County has launched diversified nighttime economic products and services during the summer vacation, integrating traditional culture into modern life, attracting tourists through light and shadow shows, charming culture, and delectable food.
At night, with colorful lights, crowded shops, fragrant food, and flowing Qingshuijiang River, tourists are immersed in the hustle and bustle of Biancheng Chadong Ancient Town.
By the river, a small stall for making lacquer fans attracted countless tourists. In no time, a Chinese-style lacquer fan with the words “Biancheng” printed on it was made.
“Some Miao ethnic elements and Biancheng elements have been integrated into the lacquer fans. Tourists can bring back such a cultural and creative product with Biancheng elements as a souvenir,” said Lai Siqi, owner of the lacquer fan stall.
Here, tourists can stroll along the street by the river and enjoy the night views. They can also sit by the river, chat about literature, and taste delicious food.
“Tourists say that yellow catfish is delicious, and Xiangxi preserved pork also sells very well. We will continue to improve services and let tourists taste the most delicious food of Xiangxi,” said Long Guizhen, owner of Chadong Restaurant.
In addition, various types of travel photography, as a new form of tourism in the scenic area, have become a new favorite of tourists coming for night tours. They experience immersive travel photography at night.
“With beautiful lights, it’s a great experience for children to try on Miao ethnic costumes,” said a tourist from Taiyuan City of Shanxi Province, who strolled along the banks of the Qingshuijiang River and enjoyed the night scenery with her family.
A summer night outdoor party was held in Qule New Town of Biancheng. Volunteers from Jishou University, together with the staff from the scenic area, started an outdoor carnival with music, dances, beer, and kebab, bringing the nightlife of the ancient town to a climax.
Since 2022, Huayuan County has made efforts to optimize the business environment, advance the development of the night economy, and improve tourists’ satisfaction. According to tourists’ needs, it has provided personalized and thoughtful services, created a new path of cultural and tourism integration with local elements, and formed a night economy model of night viewing, night entertainment, night food, and night shopping, in a bid to promote the night time consumption in Biancheng.
“There are currently RV campsites and camping bases here. During the summer vacation, a music festival and a beer festival will be held in the scenic area, allowing tourists to experience the rich cultural atmosphere during the day and enjoy the breeze and relax themselves at night,” said Wang Yake, a staff member of the scenic area.
