Chinese President Xi Jinping took a deep dive into history this week during a visit to Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Yunnan Province. The March 19 trip highlighted his call to prioritize cultural preservation while boosting sustainable tourism—a balancing act resonating with young travelers and digital nomads chasing authenticity.
Strolling through cobblestone streets lined with 800-year-old Naxi architecture, Xi emphasized blending tradition with modern innovation. 'Culture is the lifeblood of a nation,' he remarked, praising local efforts to protect heritage amid rising tourist footfall. The visit also explored how tech-driven solutions could help manage visitor flows without compromising the town's charm.
Sustainable development took center stage, with Xi urging communities to 'let culture and tourism grow hand-in-hand.' His message aligns with Gen Z’s travel ethos: seeking Instagram-worthy spots that stay true to their roots. As Lijiang evolves, its mix of ancient tea-horse trade history and eco-friendly tourism could set a blueprint for global heritage sites.
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Xi visits Lijiang Old Town, highlights cultural heritage preservation
cgtn.com