Imagine standing atop Flower and Fruit Mountain, the very place where the Monkey King is said to have been born, and looking out at a breathtaking panorama of mountains and sea. Now, picture that same view from a helicopter, soaring above the rugged coastline. This is the magic of Lianyungang, a city that's not just resting on its legendary laurels but actively weaving them into a vibrant tapestry of modern tourism.
It's been a remarkable period for Lianyungang. As the nation heads towards the close of the 14th Five-Year Plan, the city has truly embraced the fusion of culture and tourism, delivering an impressive performance. We're talking about over 72 million visitors flocking to its monitored cultural and tourism sites – a significant 17.8% jump from the previous year. Fifty-seven key cultural and tourism projects have taken root, attracting a hefty 3.76 billion yuan in investment. And the accolades? Over 50 provincial-level or higher honors, with initiatives like the Lian Island Music Festival and the "Monkey King" micro-series becoming genuine breakout hits.
Lianyungang is consciously positioning itself as "Magical and Romantic Lianyungang," with a clear focus on being a "City of Journey to the West Culture." This isn't just about ancient stories; it's about transforming those rich resources into a powerful brand, driving the city's cultural and tourism industry from a resource-led model to one driven by compelling brands. The result is a new, high-quality development symphony playing out between the mountains and the sea.
Building a Foundation for Growth
The engine behind this high-quality development is a robust pipeline of projects and a constant drive for innovation in what the city offers. In 2025, Lianyungang has been all about boosting efficiency and effectiveness, employing a three-pronged approach: project construction, innovative offerings, and consumer activation. This strategy is unlocking the immense economic potential of its natural and cultural assets.
The 57 key cultural and tourism projects launched this year span a wide spectrum, from immersive experiences and nighttime economies to wellness and leisure. Looking back at the entire "14th Five-Year Plan" period, the city has a pipeline of 281 key projects, with a cumulative investment reaching a staggering 32.44 billion yuan. Landmarks like the Yuwan Happy City are now operational, providing a solid bedrock for the industry's growth.
Take the Yuwan Happy City, for instance. It's become a destination in itself, seamlessly blending dining, entertainment, attractions, shopping, and accommodation. The Linglongju themed resort hotel is so popular that rooms are hard to come by, and the intangible cultural heritage workshops and food courts mean visitors can truly "play, eat, and stay in Yuwan."
Innovating for the Modern Traveler
Lianyungang is keenly attuned to the evolving demands of travelers, particularly their desire for diverse and engaging experiences. At Flower and Fruit Mountain and Sea Cloud Terrace Mountain, innovative helicopter tours have been launched, offering 12 different aerial routes. This "aviation + tourism" model provides a breathtaking "cloud-view" perspective of the stunning landscape where mountains meet the sea, quickly becoming a new signature for the city's tourism.
Down at Yuwan Scenic Area, a dazzling array of laser shows, water projections, and the mesmerizing "iron flower" (a traditional firework display) create an immersive, romantic atmosphere. For the more adventurous, activities like Via Ferrata and "aerial performers" are drawing in younger crowds, quickly becoming must-do check-ins.
What's particularly exciting is how Lianyungang is breaking free from seasonal limitations, ensuring that the winter tourism market is no longer a quiet period. This forward-thinking approach is transforming Lianyungang into a year-round destination, where ancient legends and modern adventures intertwine. It's a city that invites you to explore, to dream, and to experience something truly unique.
