As the May Day holiday rolled around, travelers from across the globe are embracing a fresh take on tourism: immersive cultural experiences that transport them back in time. At Hengdian World Studios in the heart of the Chinese mainland's Zhejiang province, visitors are donning traditional Hanfu attire, mastering calligraphy strokes, and strolling through sprawling sets replicating Tang and Ming dynasties.
Li Ming, a tourist from Singapore, says it felt like stepping into a live-action drama—donning a Tang robe and learning traditional dance moves truly brought history to life.
Since the holiday began, attendance has surged, reflecting a growing appetite for experiential travel. Unlike typical sightseeing, cultural immersion lets guests actively participate in ancient customs—from tea ceremonies to martial arts demonstrations—making each moment social-media ready and deeply memorable.
For young global citizens and digital nomads, this trend offers more than just photo ops. It fosters cross-cultural understanding and supports local artisans. Businesses at Hengdian note a significant uptick in costume rentals and interactive workshops, signaling strong economic potential.
As tourism evolves, immersive experiences like those at Hengdian World Studios showcase how blending entertainment with education can redefine travel. This May Day, ancient China isn't just history—it's your playground.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
