China embraces experience-based tourism | NHK WORLD-JAPAN News - NHKニュース

China's tourism industry is turning to experience-based activities in a bid to boost the sector, which has been suffering from sluggish demand.

A week-long national holiday usually brings throngs of visitors to Kaifeng in Henan Province, which has a 400-meter street that recreates the atmosphere of the Song Dynasty. But this year it was largely empty.

With tourism numbers down, another attraction in the area is hoping to lure people back with experiences. The theme park recreates scenes from China's dynastic eras as well as modern towns.

Staff dressed as emperors, nobles and characters from classic tales entertain and engage with visitors.

A tourist said: "I think playing games with everyone makes the experience richer. It might also help make communication feel more interactive." Another park guest said the interactive experiences made the visit more enjoyable.