Red Tourism Destinations See Significant Footfall Growth This Summer, with Jinggangshan, Yan’an, and Shaoshan Leading the Way, Boosted by Young Travelers and History Films

In 2025, red tourism destinations across China are experiencing a surge in visitors, particularly from younger generations and families. As this summer marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist Movement, red tourism—which focuses on sites associated with China’s revolutionary history—has garnered increasing attention. The country’s red tourism sector, which encompasses various historical memorials and revolutionary sites, is thriving as young people visit to learn about their nation’s history, especially as the summer months offer a unique opportunity for travel.

Jinggangshan, Yan’an, and Shaoshan have become some of the most visited red tourism destinations in China this year, with booking volumes for hotels and attractions seeing considerable increases compared to last year. The rising interest in these historically significant sites highlights a broader trend of young people seeking to connect with China’s revolutionary past, and this surge in travel reflects the influence of both cultural initiatives and contemporary media.

Why Are Red Tourism Destinations Gaining Popularity?

Red tourism, which focuses on visiting locations tied to the Chinese Communist Party’s history and the revolutionary movement, has become a vital part of China’s cultural tourism industry. The increasing popularity of these destinations among younger travelers is driven by several factors, such as educational purposes, nostalgia, and a desire to experience China’s historical landmarks firsthand.

With the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, many Chinese citizens, particularly young people, are looking to pay homage to the country’s founding figures and honor the sacrifices made during this time. Visiting sites like Jinggangshan, where the Communist Party’s early leaders worked and strategized, or Yan’an, the site of the Long March and the Communist Party’s headquarters during the Chinese Civil Struggle, allows visitors to deepen their understanding of China’s revolutionary heritage.

The growing number of young visitors can also be attributed to the intersection of education and tourism, where historical destinations become integral parts of school curriculums, family vacations, and personal learning experiences. As more young Chinese explore their heritage, red tourism is increasingly being seen as an essential avenue for cultural engagement.

Key Destinations for Red Tourism

Jinggangshan, Yan’an, and Shaoshan stand out as the leading destinations for red tourism in 2025. These locations have been receiving a significant number of visitors, including younger tourists, as they are deeply tied to the historical roots of modern China.

1. Jinggangshan, Jiangxi Province
   Jinggangshan has seen a notable increase in hotel bookings, with a nearly 40% year-on-year rise, surpassing the overall growth in hotel bookings in Jiangxi province. Known as the “Cradle of the Chinese Revolution,” this mountainous area is where Mao Zedong and other leaders of the Chinese Communist Party spent significant time during their early struggles. Visitors come to explore the revolutionary sites and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region, particularly in the summer when the cool weather makes it a perfect escape from the heat.
2. Yan’an, Shaanxi Province
   Yan’an, another vital location in China’s revolutionary history, has also experienced a rise in tourism this summer. This city was the base for the Communist Party of China during the latter stages of the Long March and served as the headquarters during the Chinese Civil Struggle. Yan’an remains a key site for red tourism, with many travelers visiting the Yan’an Revolutionary Memorial Museum and the nearby cave dwellings that once housed Chinese Communist leaders.
3. Shaoshan, Hunan Province
   As the birthplace of Mao Zedong, Shaoshan is a prominent red tourism destination. Located in Hunan Province, Shaoshan attracts visitors who wish to pay tribute to Mao and learn more about his early life and political career. With its numerous historical landmarks, such as the Mao Zedong Memorial Museum and his childhood home, Shaoshan remains a significant part of China’s red tourism circuit.

The Impact of History-Themed Films on Red Tourism

The recent success of history-themed films has played a significant role in boosting the popularity of red tourism. Films like Dead To Rights, which focuses on the Nanjing Massacre, have had a substantial impact on the travel industry. The movie, which grossed over 1.5 billion yuan ($209 million) in just ten days after its release, has driven more people to visit related locations like the Shanghai Film Studios Amusement Park, where scenes from the movie were filmed. These films, which evoke strong emotions and reflections on China’s history, have become a catalyst for increasing visits to historical sites tied to China’s past.

The Shanghai Film Studios Amusement Park, a central filming location for Dead To Rights, has seen a significant rise in visitors, particularly after the film’s success. With immersive activities designed to provide visitors with historical experiences, the park attracts young people who are interested in engaging with history through modern media formats. According to Tongcheng Travel, a leading travel agency in China, the internet search volume for the amusement park has surged by over 80% compared to the previous month, demonstrating the influence of history-themed films on red tourism.

Expanding Accessibility with New Routes

As demand for red tourism grows, transportation options to these destinations are expanding. China Eastern Airlines has launched a new direct flight route connecting Shanghai to Yan’an, making it easier for travelers from major cities to access this historically rich location. Additionally, Xiamen Airlines now offers flights connecting Fuzhou to Yan’an, with a stopover in Changsha, further improving accessibility to these iconic sites.

These new air routes are part of a broader trend to meet the growing demand for red tourism. With increased flight connectivity, more visitors from across China can now easily access red tourism destinations, making it more convenient to explore the sites that define China’s revolutionary history.

The Role of Technology and Interactive Experiences

Technology has played a key role in enriching the red tourism experience for younger travelers. Many red tourism sites have integrated advanced technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to create more interactive and engaging historical experiences. These innovations allow visitors to immerse themselves in historical events, from witnessing the hardships of the Long March to experiencing the struggles of wartime China.

The use of technology not only makes the historical narratives more accessible but also helps young travelers connect with the past in a meaningful way. Through these immersive activities, red tourism is becoming more than just a historical visit; it’s a dynamic and interactive experience that brings history to life for the next generation.

Red Tourism and Its Broader Impact on China’s Tourism Industry

The growing popularity of red tourism is having a significant impact on China’s tourism industry, both economically and culturally. As young people continue to flock to these revolutionary destinations, the demand for local services such as accommodations, guided tours, and cultural experiences is increasing. This surge in travel is benefiting not just the key destinations but also surrounding regions, as visitors explore the broader areas of historical interest and cultural significance.

For the tourism sector, red tourism offers a unique opportunity to blend education with leisure, fostering greater cultural awareness and historical understanding among travelers. It also provides a significant economic boost to the regions where these destinations are located, contributing to local businesses and industries.

Future Prospects for Red Tourism

As the interest in red tourism continues to rise, China’s tourism industry is poised to further develop and expand this niche sector. Red tourism is expected to grow as more sites are developed, and new films, exhibitions, and educational programs continue to engage younger generations. The upcoming release of films such as Dongji Rescue and Mountains and Rivers Bearing Witness is likely to further fuel this growth, with more visitors seeking to explore the historical locations depicted in these films.

Moreover, as red tourism sites continue to integrate advanced technology, interactive experiences, and multimedia resources, they will become even more attractive to younger, tech-savvy travelers who are looking for more immersive and engaging travel experiences.

Conclusion: Red Tourism’s Growing Appeal

The rise of red tourism in China marks a significant shift in the country’s tourism landscape, with more young travelers visiting historical sites to connect with the nation’s revolutionary past. The combination of rich historical narratives, technological innovations, and immersive travel experiences has made red tourism an increasingly popular choice among Chinese travelers. With the continued development of transportation routes and new interactive technologies, red tourism is set to grow even further, offering a compelling blend of history, culture, and modern-day engagement for all visitors.

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