Hainan accelerates development of space-themed tourism

"The hotel rooms were fully booked 20 days ahead of the rocket launch, and even on the day of the launch, many tourists were still inquiring about available rooms," said Chen Xiaoyun, owner of a hotel in Wenchang city, south China's Hainan Province.

According to Chen, hotel rooms are always in high demand during every space launch in Wenchang.

People wait to watch the launch of the Chang'e-6 lunar probe in south China's Hainan Province, May 3, 2024.  (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

On May 3, China launched the Chang'e-6 lunar probe atop the Long March-5 Y8 carrier rocket from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in Wenchang.

Many space enthusiasts flocked to the site to watch the launch. Several hotels in Longlou township, situated near the launch site, were fully occupied, and the catering business thrived.

Lin Yumei returned to her hometown of Longlou in 2016 to open a shop selling Ching Bo Leung, a cool and refreshing sweet dessert soup. On the day of the rocket launch, Lin sold nearly 1,000 bowls of Ching Bo Leung.

Tourists from across the country are relishing the experience of space tourism in diverse ways.

Tang Yutong, a tourist from south China's Guangdong Province who works in the cultural and tourism sector, has made five visits to Wenchang to watch rocket launches.

By donning costumes portraying Chang'e, the moon goddess, and the Jade Rabbit, Tang created a unique connection between the past and present at the launch site. This innovative approach was designed to promote space culture.

Wang Yubo, a man from east China's Shandong Province, is currently occupied with the construction of two space-themed hotels in Longlou township. Scheduled to open in June, the hotels will offer space-themed study tours, summer camps, and a range of space-themed cultural products.

Liao Hualin, general manager of a tourism development company in Wenchang, revealed a partnership with the Hainan commercial spacecraft launch site to develop tourism projects. Their future plans include integrating space launch observations, space tourism routes, and aerospace technology experiences to enhance visitor engagement and satisfaction.

Chen Jiange, secretary-general of the Wenchang Tourism Association, proposed the creation of original experiences that combine space and culture. He also recommended providing personalized and specialized tourism experiences tailored to the distinct preferences of various groups.