Over 80 tourist attractions in Shandong Province, east China, have discounted tickets by 50 to 80 percent to revive local tourism affected by the novel coronavirus disease. It will continue till the end of the year. 

China's domestic tourism, with epidemic containment, is gradually resuming. Cross-province, city and district group trips are now allowed in parts of the country. To spur demand, the number of visitors allowed to scenic spots has been increased from 30 percent to 50 percent.

According to a survey by online travel agency Trip.com, 88 percent of its clients plan to travel to other provinces in the second half of this year. More than 70 percent said they would visit other areas shortly.

The tourism industry has a long industrial chain, including accommodation, transport and shopping. Together, they can generate about seven times the value of admission tickets. The discount policy will help Shandong attract more visitors and gain an edge in market competition.

In 2016, ticket sales for the top-tier scenic spots in the country accounted for over 40 percent of their total revenue, with some exceeding 90 percent. The high price of tickets forced visitors' expenses to mount. The discount will lead to tourist attractions adjusting their operation by multiplying income channels, which will benefit other links in the industrial chain.

Shandong's policy has set a precedent for other provinces to lower ticket prices at scenic spots, which will give more vitality to the industry during the summer vacation and National Day holiday in the second half of the year. Local governments can continue the policies in the future to give more benefits to tourists.

This is an edited excerpt of an article originally published in Yangcheng Evening Daily on July 28 

(Print Edition Title: Tourism Incentive)