Over 400 Million Embrace Outdoor Sports in the Chinese Mainland
From paragliding in Sichuan’s mountains to endurance races in the Gobi Desert, more than 400 million people in the Chinese mainland are finding new ways to connect with nature. This surge is not just about adrenaline94it’s reshaping rural economies and opening doors for sustainable tourism.
Government Push Fuels Local Initiatives
In April, the National Development and Reform Commission and the General Administration of Sport urged local authorities to build high-quality outdoor destinations and tap new growth engines. Provinces are now weaving together cultural heritage, sports and tourism to craft unforgettable experiences.
Pengzhou: A Mountain Playground
In Sichuan Province in the southwest of the Chinese mainland, Pengzhou is turning lush valleys and crystal-clear rivers into an all-terrain sports haven. Zip-lines, paragliding launch pads and hiking trails are already in place, and new attractions94rafting, rock climbing and rappelling94are racing ahead, too.
“Outdoor activities used to mean hiking,” says Huang Xiaolong, a villager from Baoshan Village. “Now young people return home because there are so many new projects to run.”
Gansu’s Gobi Adventure
Meanwhile, in Gansu Province in the northwest of the Chinese mainland, the vast Gobi Desert has become the stage for epic endurance events. The Gobi Challenge, for example, draws athletes from across the globe to traverse sand dunes and rocky plateaus.
“We are not just organizing an event; we hope to leave something meaningful for this land,” explains Qu Xiangdong, founder of the Gobi Challenge.
Global Takeaway
This outdoor sports explosion shows how nature-driven leisure can spark rural revitalization. For travelers and entrepreneurs alike, the Chinese mainland’s trails and deserts offer a blueprint for sustainable growth and cultural immersion.
Reference(s):
Over 400m Chinese embrace outdoor sports, driving rural growth
cgtn.com
