Guangzhou will offer free admission, discounted tickets, and special tourism promotions at more than 100 attractions on May 19, 2026, as the city hosts the national main venue events for the 2026 China Tourism Day.
It marks the first time Guangzhou has been selected to host the national flagship events for the annual tourism celebration, which this year carries the theme "Enjoy Quality Travel, Explore Scenic Land."
According to local tourism authorities, 116 tourist attractions and Pearl River cruise operators across the city will participate in the campaign. The initiative aims to encourage travel and attract both domestic and international visitors through large-scale discounts for the public and cultural experiences.
Nearly 80 attractions, including Lianhua Mountain, Baomo Garden, and Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, will waive general admission fees on May 19, 2026.
Meanwhile, 13 scenic areas, including Baiyun Mountain, will offer half-price tickets. Major entertainment destinations such as the Canton Tower, Chimelong Safari Park, and Chimelong Paradise will also launch special promotional packages and bundled deals for visitors.
Discounts will also apply to Guangzhou's popular Pearl River night cruises, with cruise operators offering reduced fares and promotional travel packages during the campaign.
The official China Tourism Day launch ceremony will take place on the evening of May 19, 2026, at the Canton Tower. The ceremony will blend traditional Lingnan cultural performances, including Yingge dance, lion dance, and Cantonese Opera, with cutting-edge stage effects such as drone displays and citywide light shows.
Four themed marketplaces will also be set up at the venue, featuring intangible cultural heritage products, Guangdong consumer brands, rural tourism projects, and tourism investment projects from across Guangdong.
During the tourism campaign, entertainment complexes at the Grandview brand will host immersive attractions, including underwater performances inspired by Dunhuang art, as well as an intangible cultural heritage show titled 'Dunhuang Flying Apsaras.' Several pop-up events tied to hit Chinese entertainment and gaming IPs are also expected to draw younger visitors and families.
Guangzhou Chimelong Resort will also enhance its live entertainment offerings with new float parades and nighttime fireworks displays as part of the celebrations.
The citywide campaign reflects Guangzhou's broader effort to position itself as a world-class tourism destination where traditional Lingnan culture, modern entertainment, and urban leisure experiences come together.
Reporter: Li Fangwang
Poster: Guangzhou Municipal Culture, Radio, Television and Tourism Bureau
Photo: Li Fangwang
