Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of "internet celebrity cities" and the potential risks associated with relying on short-term viral trends for sustainable tourism development, using the example of Jingdezhen and its "Chicken Chop Brother" as a case study [4][6][10]. Group 1: Jingdezhen's Strategy - Jingdezhen has positioned the "Chicken Chop Brother" as a key figure for attracting tourists during the National Day holiday, highlighting the importance of food safety and hygiene in tourism [4][6]. - The local government has actively supported the Chicken Chop Brother, even designating him as a "Jingdezhen Tourism Promotion Officer," which reflects a strategic move to leverage viral marketing [6][10]. - This approach raises concerns about the sustainability of such marketing tactics, as previous examples like Zibo and Tianshui did not lead to lasting changes in their tourism industries despite initial popularity [7][10]. Group 2: Risks of Viral Marketing - The article warns that excessive reliance on a single viral figure can lead to a superficial tourism experience, where the authenticity and charm of the local culture may be overshadowed by commercialization [13][15]. - It emphasizes that while viral trends can attract visitors, they do not guarantee repeat business or long-term economic benefits if underlying issues such as infrastructure and cleanliness are not addressed [13][14]. - The phenomenon of "internet celebrity cities" can lead to a negative backlash if visitors feel disappointed by their experiences, which can damage the city's reputation in the long run [15][19]. Group 3: Lessons from Other Cities - The article draws parallels with cities like Dubrovnik, which have implemented measures to manage tourist flow and prioritize resident quality of life over short-term tourism revenue [18][19]. - Successful examples from Europe show that sustainable tourism requires a balance between attracting visitors and maintaining the integrity of local communities and environments [18][19]. - The article concludes that the essence of tourism lies in genuine exchanges between visitors and the city, which cannot be achieved through superficial marketing strategies [20].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of "Chicken Chop Brother" in Jingdezhen, highlighting the potential risks and short-lived nature of relying on viral marketing and individual personalities to drive tourism and economic growth [4][6][28]. Group 1: Jingdezhen's Tourism Strategy - Jingdezhen's cultural tourism bureau has appointed "Chicken Chop Brother" as a promotional ambassador, showcasing a unique approach to attract visitors during the National Day holiday [6][9]. - The local government has taken proactive measures to support the Chicken Chop Brother, including forming a dedicated team to manage customer flow and maintain order [4][6]. Group 2: Risks of Viral Marketing - The article draws parallels with previous viral cities like Zibo and Tianshui, which experienced temporary spikes in tourism without sustainable economic benefits, indicating that such strategies may not lead to long-term structural changes [7][8][17]. - The reliance on a single personality or viral moment can lead to a "PTSD" effect among consumers, where the initial excitement fades quickly, leaving behind unmet expectations [7][10][18]. Group 3: Visitor Experience and Sustainability - The article emphasizes that while viral moments can attract crowds, they do not guarantee repeat visits or sustainable tourism, as underlying issues like infrastructure and cleanliness remain unaddressed [15][26]. - It highlights the importance of balancing tourist influx with local residents' quality of life, referencing cities like Dubrovnik that have implemented measures to manage tourism sustainably [21][25][26]. Group 4: Conclusion on Tourism Dynamics - The article concludes that the essence of tourism lies in genuine exchanges between visitors and the city, and that cities should focus on creating authentic experiences rather than relying solely on viral marketing [28][29].

Core Points - The Ajman Tourism Development Department launched a five-day promotional event in China on September 22 [1] - The delegation, led by Director Mahmoud Hashimi, will visit major cities including Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Shenzhen to promote Ajman's tourism resources and advantages [1] - Ajman aims to expand its market presence in China and deepen cooperation with major Chinese tourism agencies to promote sustainable tourism development [1]

Core Insights - The Silk Road Tourism Cities Alliance International Travel Business Conference was held from September 15 to 18 in Liaocheng, Shandong, with over 150 attendees from 15 countries discussing new opportunities for cross-border tourism cooperation [1][2] - The alliance, established two years ago, has attracted 83 renowned tourist cities from 33 countries, serving as an important platform for cultural and tourism cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative [1] Group 1 - The conference aims to promote the international tourism industry's upgrade and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation [1] - Shandong province plans to leverage the conference to enhance policy execution, deepen practical cooperation, and improve services in collaboration with international travel businesses [1] Group 2 - The conference is seen as a positive response to the Belt and Road Initiative and aims to inject new vitality into the cultural and tourism integration of cities along the route [2] - Various representatives expressed hopes to strengthen exchanges in marine ecological protection and explore sustainable tourism development paths [2] - A themed exhibition showcasing the unique cultural and tourism charm of member cities from Asia, Europe, Africa, and America was held concurrently with the conference [2]

Core Points - The 2025 Silk Road Tourism Cities Alliance International Travel Business Conference will be held in Liaocheng, Shandong, from September 15 to 18, 2025, focusing on cross-border tourism cooperation opportunities [1][2] - The Silk Road Tourism Cities Alliance, established two years ago, has attracted 83 renowned tourist cities from 33 countries, serving as a significant platform for cultural and tourism cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative [1][2] Group 1 - The conference aims to promote international tourism industry upgrades and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation [1] - Liaocheng will leverage this conference to enhance policy implementation, deepen practical cooperation, and improve services with international travel businesses [1][2] Group 2 - The event is a positive response to the Belt and Road Initiative and aims to inject vitality into the cultural and tourism integration of cities along the route [2] - Various representatives expressed hopes to strengthen exchanges in marine ecological protection and explore sustainable tourism development paths [2] - The conference featured the launch of Liaocheng's overseas promotional IP image, "Silk Meow," and the issuance of overseas promotion officer certificates [2]

Core Insights - The article highlights the increasing focus of rural areas in various countries on leveraging local resources to develop unique tourism offerings, thereby enhancing the cultural tourism industry and attracting visitors [1] Group 1: Indonesia - Ukil Sari Village - Ukil Sari Village in Indonesia has a rich heritage of hand-drawn batik, recognized as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage since 2009, and was included in the UNWTO's "Best Tourism Villages" list for 2024 [2][3] - The village initiated the "Batik Village" project in 2007, aiming to establish itself as a national center for hand-drawn batik, while also preserving other cultural heritages like shadow puppetry and traditional herbal medicine [2][3] - The village has over 1,200 batik artisans and offers various cultural events, enhancing the tourist experience through workshops and festivals, while also improving local infrastructure and services [3][4] Group 2: Mexico - Cuatro Ciénegas - Cuatro Ciénegas, located in a 85,000-hectare protected area, is known for its unique landscapes and biodiversity, featuring over 100 endemic species [5][6] - The area has undergone significant ecological restoration efforts, improving its environment through wetland recovery and local species protection, which has facilitated the growth of eco-tourism [6] - Cuatro Ciénegas was nominated as a "Magical Town" by the Mexican tourism department and was included in the UNWTO's "Best Tourism Villages" list for 2024, highlighting its potential for attracting eco-conscious tourists [6] Group 3: Austria - St. Johann - St. Johann in Austria is recognized for its stunning natural beauty and cultural heritage, offering a variety of seasonal activities such as skiing in winter and hiking in summer [7][8] - The town emphasizes local cultural events, such as the "Dumpling Festival," which showcases regional cuisine and engages the community in cultural preservation [7] - St. Johann has introduced innovative services like shared office spaces to cater to remote workers, reflecting a commitment to sustainable tourism and community involvement [8]

Core Insights - The BRICS nations, now comprising 11 member countries, play an increasingly significant role in the global economy, with a combined population of approximately 3.5 billion, accounting for 45% of the world's total population, and an economic output representing about 37% of the global economy [1] - The total investable wealth held by BRICS countries has surpassed $45 trillion, enhancing their influence in the global economic and financial landscape [1] Group 1: Tourism Development in BRICS - The BRICS nations possess rich tourism resources, with a total of 236 UNESCO World Heritage sites, representing 19.30% of the global total, and the BRICS five countries alone account for 77.03% of this number [2] - Post-pandemic, the tourism market in BRICS countries is diversifying, with China's domestic tourism expected to reach 5.615 billion trips in 2024, a 14.8% increase year-on-year [3] - The tourism management systems in BRICS countries are evolving, with Brazil, India, South Africa, Russia, and China implementing various reforms to enhance tourism infrastructure and service quality [4] Group 2: Policy Initiatives and Cooperation - BRICS governments have introduced policies to promote tourism, focusing on infrastructure development, cultural heritage protection, and easing visa processes [5] - The tourism development strategies vary among BRICS nations, with India and Brazil emphasizing eco-tourism and cultural tourism, while South Africa focuses on adventure tourism [6] - The tourism markets in BRICS countries show diverse characteristics, with China and India having substantial domestic markets, while Brazil, Russia, and South Africa are more reliant on international tourists [7] Group 3: Infrastructure and Service Quality - Investment in tourism infrastructure is ongoing, with China having a relatively advanced system, while other countries like India and Brazil face challenges in road quality and regional disparities [8] - The quality of accommodation varies, with China and South Africa offering high-end facilities, while India and Brazil are rapidly developing new lodging options [8] Group 4: Future Directions for BRICS Tourism - To enhance cooperation, BRICS countries should establish a tourism cooperation committee to coordinate policies and implement joint projects [11] - Promoting a unified tourism brand and facilitating easier travel through a common visa system could significantly boost tourism among BRICS nations [12] - Emphasizing the development of unique tourism products and improving service quality will be crucial for enhancing competitiveness in the global tourism market [13]

Core Insights - Japan's inbound tourism is experiencing significant growth, with foreign visitors reaching 3.4976 million in March 2025, a 13.5% increase year-on-year, marking a historical high [1] - The Japanese government emphasizes optimizing tax refund services to enhance consumer spending among foreign tourists, viewing this as a critical opportunity for the domestic market [1][2] - The introduction of electronic tax refund processes and the expansion of payment options, including UnionPay and electronic payment apps, are aimed at improving the shopping experience for tourists [2][3] Group 1: Inbound Tourism Growth - The number of foreign tourists visiting Japan has reached a record high, with significant contributions from major source markets [1] - The Japanese government has set three core goals in its tourism strategy: promoting sustainable tourism, increasing tourism spending, and encouraging visitors to explore regional areas [1] Group 2: Tax Refund and Shopping Experience - Japan has implemented a more convenient tax refund process, allowing tourists to complete refunds electronically, reducing the hassle of traditional methods [2] - Major department stores are enhancing their tax refund services, including the introduction of electronic payment options for refunds, which cater to the increasing number of Chinese tourists [2] - A new online platform, Visit Japan Web, has been launched to streamline entry procedures and includes a feature for tax-free shopping, allowing tourists to use a QR code instead of a passport [3] Group 3: Future Changes in Tax Policies - Starting November 1, 2026, Japan will revise its tax exemption and refund policies to further facilitate shopping for foreign tourists, including reducing restrictions on tax-free items and eliminating certain purchase limits [3] - The Japanese government is also considering online processing and integration with automated check-in systems to minimize wait times for tourists at departure [3] - While expanding tax refund options, Japan is also taking steps to regulate potential abuses of the system to prevent profit from loopholes [4]