"Silk Road Tourism Year" has begun in Xi'an, capital of northwest China's Shaanxi Province.

The year-long campaign is being held to attract more visitors on the ancient Silk Road which linked China with central Asian nations.

Du Jiang, deputy director of the China National Tourism Administration.

"Silk Road tourism is both beneficial to the internal development and integration of tourism resources, leading the tourist coordination between provinces along the Silk Road, and establishing pragmatic, efficient and mutual beneficial regional community. We can also further advance the regional tourist communication and cooperation between China and other Asian and Central East European countries."

Inspired by the Silk Road, China will also promote western provinces for their rich culture and tourist appeal.

The CNTA sets a theme for tourism promotion every year in different parts of China.