Shanghai witnessed a significant surge in tourism during the recent Dragon Boat Festival holiday, according to the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism.

The city recorded 6.48 million visits, generating 12.48 billion yuan ($1.73 billion) in tourism-related spending, including dining, accommodation, transportation, attractions, shopping, and entertainment. This represents a 3.3 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

Hotel and guesthouse occupancy averaged 59 percent, up by 1 percentage point year-on-year, while major tourist attractions welcomed 2.27 million visitors.

Cultural activities also saw a strong uptick. A total of 447 performances were staged over the three-day holiday, up 5.82 percent year-on-year. These events attracted 379,000 viewers and generated approximately 103 million yuan in box office revenue — a sharp 156.27-percent rise.

To enrich the holiday experience, city authorities integrated culture, tourism, commerce, sports, and exhibitions. Folk traditions such as dragon boat performances at Meilan Lake and intangible cultural heritage fairs in Zhujiajiao and Sijing ancient towns proved especially popular.

Coinciding with International Children's Day, the holiday featured a wide range of family-friendly activities. Shanghai Disney Resort launched its "Student Month" campaign, while Shanghai Happy Valley offered a steampunk-themed interactive puppet parade.

Museums and galleries held a diverse array of exhibitions, including Precious Rarities: Ming and Qing Rhinoceros Horn Carvings at the Shanghai Museum, and I. M. Pei: Life is Architecture at the Power Station of Art.

Source: Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism