National Day holiday sparks -blue tourism- in Zhejiang, personalized products are popular

As the holiday season draws near, the Ningbo Songlan Mountain Tourist Resort is generating excitement with its “National Day Seafood Long Table Feast.” Imagine guests seated around a long table, indulging in delectable seafood while soaking in breathtaking seaside views and enjoying live music from a talented local band.

With the rise of ocean leisure vacations, island tourism has skyrocketed in popularity. During the National Day holiday, a range of unique island experiences in Zhejiang are drawing more visitors than ever, making these destinations a top choice for vacationers.

At the “National Day Seafood Long Table Feast,” a dedicated team of professional chefs showcases the finest flavors of seafood using expert cooking techniques. From steaming and braising to blanching and pan-frying, there’s something to tantalize every palate. As beautifully plated seafood dishes arrive at the table, the enticing aromas awaken the taste buds of every guest.

“I’m loving this atmosphere! The beautiful scenery, delicious food, and wonderful music—plus my kids get to play on the beach,” shared Ms. Chen, a visitor from Hangzhou.

Beyond the culinary delights, water sports like sailing, yachting, and paddleboarding have also caught the interest of vacationers.

“I really enjoy sailing, and I came here specifically to check out the venue for the Hangzhou Asian Games sailing competitions,” said Chen Jie, an ocean sports enthusiast, while relaxing on the beach at Ningbo Songlan Mountain Tourist Resort and watching sailors train. “This moment feels so relaxing.”

According to a representative from the Ningbo Songlan Mountain Tourist Resort, to tap into the growing trend of marine sports, the resort has launched an Asian sail ocean sports market during the holiday, offering a variety of marine activities that promise a rich and engaging experience for visitors.

For example, paddleboarding offers both excitement and challenge as participants stand on the board, balancing while navigating through the water.

Meanwhile, at the “Blue Crab” café adjoining the Xiangshan Crab Claw Port Scenic Area, a coastal landscape exhibition has been garnering significant attention.

“The sunset viewed through my camera lens is absolutely breathtaking. I can’t wait to share these photos with my friends,” remarked Ms. Yang, a tourist holding a warm cup of coffee while taking in the stunning sunset over Crab Claw Port.

The “Coffee+” experience at Xiangshan Crab Claw Port is particularly resonating with younger crowds.

In 2022, two young entrepreneurs, Yu Kangning and Pan Wenda, returned to Xiangshan Maoyang with a vision for revitalizing the area. They transformed an old duck house into a café that beautifully integrates coffee culture with picturesque farm scenery.

This creativity gave birth to the “Blue Crab” café.

“Outdoor cafés thrive on trends and creativity; anything innovative draws visitors,” Pan Wenda explained during an interview. They named the café “Blue Crab” to symbolize youthfulness and the character of Crab Claw Port. Their mission goes beyond serving coffee; they collaborate with local inns and attractions to enrich rural tourism experiences, offering innovative combinations like “farm + coffee,” “inn + coffee,” and “scenic area + coffee” for guests seeking a delightful and aesthetically pleasing leisure experience.

It’s evident that tourists flock to Zhejiang’s islands not just for the travel products, but for the unique recreational experiences on offer. Here, visitors can appreciate the allure of the ocean while escaping the hustle and bustle of city life, fully immersing themselves in the tranquility of nature.