Jin Lei (right), deputy director of the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, talks about Shanghai's cultural and tourism market development during a live program on Radio Shanghai on May 8, 2024. [Photo/WeChat account: tourismshanghai]

Shanghai is intensifying efforts to enhance its local cultural assets and storytelling to elevate the city's cultural and tourism market this year, said an official of the municipal government during a live program at Radio Shanghai on May 8.

In his interview, Jin Lei, the deputy director of the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, elaborated on Shanghai's initiatives to foster new cultural and tourism productivity, with a key emphasis on innovative experiences and the integration of technology within the cultural and tourism sectors.

With a rich cultural landscape boasting 164 museums and 100 art galleries, Shanghai stands out as a powerhouse in China, Jin said, referring to three major exhibitions as examples of how they jointly contribute to Shanghai's vibrant cultural scene. The exhibitions are Stars over China: the Ancient Shu Civilization of Sanxingdui and Jinsha, which is ongoing at the Shanghai Museum; Pictures of China: Artworks by Lin Fengmian and Wu Guanzhong at China Art Museum; and Top of the Pyramids: Ancient Egyptian Civilization Exhibition, which is to be showcased by Shanghai Museum from July 19 to Aug 17, 2025.

Investments in tourism projects have played a pivotal role in empowering urban development, with a focus on creating new landmarks and enhancing inbound tourism. The city's performance market is thriving, with plans for over 200 concerts scheduled this year to cater to a diverse range of cultural preferences, Jin added.

Notably, Shanghai's pioneering efforts in the cultural and tourism metaverse were highlighted, with the city's action plan setting a new standard for blending culture and technology, driving trends towards immersive, interactive, and intelligent development.

Jin also outlined initiatives aimed at improving public access to cultural resources, promoting cultural education for children, and creating diverse and accessible cultural experiences for residents. These efforts align with Shanghai's vision to establish itself as a premier global tourism destination and a hub for exchange and innovation.

During the recent May Day holiday, Shanghai welcomed a staggering 16.24 million visitors, reflecting a 3.77 percent increase compared to previous years. The city's inbound tourism has also witnessed a significant surge this year, with 1.27 million tourists in the first quarter, marking a 2.5-fold increase from the previous year.

Source: "tourismshanghai" WeChat account