The Chinese mainland’s eight-day National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday sparked the usual crowds at historic sites and scenic spots. But this year, a new travel phenomenon emerged: fans of animation, comics, games and novels—collectively known as ACGN—hit the road in full force.
Across major cities, pop-up ACGN exhibitions attracted thousands of enthusiasts dressed in intricate cosplay, from mecha pilots to fantasy heroes. These young travelers aren’t just snapping photos for social media—they’re injecting fresh energy into local economies by spending on exclusive merchandise, themed cafes and immersive experiences.
Industry insiders report that attendance at anime and game expos soared compared to last year, highlighting the steady expansion of the ACGN sector in the Chinese mainland. Fans organized meetups, swapped DIY props and joined panel discussions on game design, turning each stop into a mini-convention.
For business and tech enthusiasts, this trend signals more than a fandom craze. It reflects a growing market where creative industries, tourism and youth culture intersect. Startups in augmented reality cosplay effects and digital ticketing are already exploring partnerships to cater to this mobile fanbase.
Meanwhile, travelers and digital nomads find that following themed events offers a unique way to explore the mainland’s diverse regions. From coastal anime fairs to inland pop-culture festivals, ACGN-themed trips blend cultural discovery with community bonding.
As the holiday drew to a close, one thing became clear: the rise of ACGN-driven tourism shows how fandoms can reshape travel patterns and fuel economic growth in unexpected ways.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
