china.org.cn
Changbai Mountain's Tourism Boom: 260% Visitor Increase Fuels 9.4% GDP Growth
Changbai Mountain in Jilin province achieved a 9.4 percent GDP increase in 2023, driven by a 260.45 percent surge in tourism to over 2.7 million visitors, exceeding 3 million in the first three quarters of 2024, resulting from strategic branding as a summer and winter destination and international recognitions.
- What are the immediate economic and environmental impacts of Changbai Mountain's record tourism numbers in 2023?
- Changbai Mountain's 2023 tourism boom saw a 260.45 percent increase in visitors to the scenic area, exceeding 2.7 million. This success, coupled with a 9.4 percent GDP growth, reflects the region's successful integration of ecological protection and tourism development. The UN and International Mountain Tourism Alliance recognitions further solidify its global standing.
- How does the dual branding strategy (summer resort and ice-and-snow destination) contribute to the region's economic growth and sustainability?
- The strategic development of Changbai Mountain as both a summer and winter destination, along with infrastructure improvements like the upcoming high-speed rail, are key drivers of its growth. This integrated approach leverages the region's unique ecological assets—intact forests, clean air, and abundant natural resources—to create a sustainable and internationally competitive tourism industry. The focus on high-quality development prioritizes ecological preservation and responsible tourism practices.
- What are the long-term challenges and opportunities for Changbai Mountain as it aims to become a world-class ecological tourism destination with a significant increase in visitors?
- The opening of the Shenyang-Baishan High-speed Railway in 2025 is projected to bring tens of millions of visitors to Changbai Mountain, posing both opportunities and challenges. Sustainable management of this influx will be crucial to maintaining the area's ecological integrity and ensuring long-term economic benefits. The region's commitment to ecological protection and biodiversity conservation will define its ability to manage this projected growth and maintain its reputation.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing consistently emphasizes positive aspects of development and tourism. The headline and introduction highlight economic growth and accolades received, setting a positive tone from the outset. The use of quotes from Gao Fei, reinforcing the positive narrative, further shapes reader interpretation. While ecological protection is mentioned, it is often presented as a synergistic element contributing to economic success, rather than a potentially competing priority.
Language Bias
The language used is largely positive and promotional, employing terms like "high-level protection," "high-quality development," and "world-class." These terms carry positive connotations and might not reflect a neutral perspective. For example, instead of "high-quality development," a more neutral term would be "sustainable development." Similarly, instead of "world-class," a neutral term could be "internationally recognized.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on economic growth and tourism development, potentially omitting challenges or negative impacts of this development on the environment or local communities. There is no mention of potential downsides of increased tourism, such as pollution, infrastructure strain, or displacement of residents. The ecological benefits are highlighted, but a balanced perspective on potential trade-offs is absent. Further, the article does not address the potential impact of climate change on tourism or the ecological systems of Changbai Mountain.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplistic view of balancing protection and development, portraying it as easily achievable. The complexities of managing a protected area while promoting tourism are not fully explored. The narrative implies that high-quality development and ecological protection are inherently compatible without acknowledging potential conflicts or trade-offs.
Sustainable Development Goals
The development of Changbai Mountain as a world-class ecological tourism destination aligns with SDG 11, Sustainable Cities and Communities. The initiative promotes sustainable tourism practices, economic growth, and improved infrastructure, while preserving the natural environment. The increase in tourism contributes to economic growth in the region, creating jobs and improving the quality of life for local communities. The focus on ecological preservation ensures the long-term sustainability of the area.