As the seven-day National Day holiday approaches, Shanghai is buzzing with excitement and anticipation. The tourism and catering industries are experiencing a significant surge in bookings, fueled by travelers eager to explore new destinations and indulge in special experiences. This seasonal spike reflects the resilience of the tourism industry and a growing interest in leisure activities among locals and visitors alike.
Shanghai is emerging as a top destination, captivating tourists from across the country and beyond. The city’s vibrant atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and diverse attractions, including iconic landmarks and cultural exhibitions, contribute to its allure. Data from Shanghai Spring Tour reveals a remarkable threefold increase in local residents visiting attractions, showcasing a renewed appreciation for the treasures in their own backyards. This surge in local tourism benefits the economy and promotes a sense of community and connection among residents as they rediscover their city.
Innovative travel trends like “hotels plus micro-tour” and “rural camping” are gaining traction in both urban and suburban areas, offering families and friends an opportunity to engage in short getaways that combine comfort and adventure. These trends reflect a broader shift in consumer preferences, where experiences are prioritized over mere sightseeing.
Cultural exhibitions like “The Great Art of Dunhuang” at the China Art Museum are acting as catalysts for local tourism, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of Dunhuang and drawing art enthusiasts and tourists eager to learn about its historical significance. Events like this enhance Shanghai’s cultural landscape and encourage visitors to engage more deeply with the city’s artistic offerings.
In addition to attractions and exhibitions, Shanghai is also captivating visitors with unique shopping experiences. A travel operator has transformed a location in the bustling Huangpu District into an immersive theme store dedicated to showcasing over 40 carefully curated “Shanghai Gifts.” This concept not only highlights the city’s rich cultural heritage but also provides visitors with an engaging shopping experience.
To further enhance the allure of these local treasures, the operator has introduced a themed sightseeing bus that takes tourists on a journey to explore iconic landmarks while highlighting these special gifts, creating a delightful blend of sightseeing and shopping. The revamp of the outlet has resulted in a significant surge in foot traffic, reflecting the growing interest in authentic, locally inspired souvenirs that celebrate Shanghai’s unique identity.
This year’s National Day holiday is expected to see a significant increase in reservations from travelers belonging to the post-80s and 90s generations. Data from Meituan’s online booking platform reveals a remarkable 22 percent increase in accommodation bookings for the weeklong holiday, showcasing the growing enthusiasm among this age group for travel experiences.
Most inbound tourists are expected to arrive from provinces such as Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Guangdong, and Shandong. Popular destinations like Shanghai Disney Resort, Jinshan City Beach, Haichang Ocean Park, Shanghai Wild Animal Park, and other major theme parks are projected to draw more than half of the visitors from outside the area.
As the tourism market gains momentum, the trend of “food-oriented traveling” is further fueling a surge in reservations within the catering sector. On the holiday’s opening day, over 20,000 tables were reserved at more than 1,000 locations of the popular Chinese hotpot chain Haidilao across the country. In anticipation of this busy season, Haidilao has introduced an array of new autumn dishes, enhancing its menu just in time for the festivities.
Among the new offerings are two varieties of Hulun Buir beef rolls, including a unique cordyceps flower beef roll designed to meet the seasonal focus on health. Additional innovative dishes include a mashed shrimp fish roe sandwich, black truffle fish roe beef rice, and a refreshing seasonal beverage that features a delightful blend of sea buckthorn, passion fruit, and mango, promising to satisfy diverse palates this autumn.
The holiday season is anticipated to bring a considerable surge in customer traffic near popular scenic spots, prompting diners to secure private rooms up to ten days in advance, according to the hotpot chain’s insights. This proactive approach reflects the increasing demand for exclusive dining experiences, especially during peak holiday times when visitors flock to enjoy local attractions.
One of the trending dining destinations this season is Joy City in Jing’an District, where the Starry Sky Bubble House and the rooftop terrace offering outdoor seating beneath the iconic Ferris wheel have captured the attention of the younger crowd. These vibrant and unique spaces not only provide a picturesque backdrop for meals but also enhance the overall dining experience, making them a favorite choice for those looking to enjoy both great food and stunning views during the holiday festivities.
