Tourist spots in China's vast countryside receive 300 million travelers every year, reaping revenues of 40 billion yuan (US$5.13 billion) as rural tourism and private cars are rapidly gaining popularity in the country.
Latest statistics from the National Tourism Administration (CNTA) show 30 rural tourist spots around Shanghai received 3.91 million people last year, up 86 percent year-on-year.
Shanghai plans to have 20,000 beds for tourists in these tourist spots in 2008 in the belief that rural tourism will stimulate consumption and create numerous job opportunities.
Every year, 60 million urban tourists choose to go to the countryside during China's three "Golden Holiday Weeks" in May, October and during the Spring Festival period, according to the CNTA.
(Xinhua News Agency January 31, 2007)