Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the paradox of high tourist numbers at popular attractions like Dunhuang, while hotel occupancy and prices have plummeted, indicating a significant shift in consumer behavior towards more budget-friendly and flexible travel options [15][30]. Group 1: Tourist Behavior Changes - Tourist numbers at attractions like Dunhuang's Mogao Caves have reached a baseline of 70,000 visitors daily, yet hotel prices have drastically dropped from 650 yuan to 280 yuan per night [5][8]. - Many tourists are opting for alternative accommodations such as sleeping in cars or camping, rather than booking traditional hotel rooms [16][19]. - The trend of self-designed travel experiences is growing, with tourists preferring to manage their own itineraries and accommodations rather than relying on packaged tours [33][36]. Group 2: Industry Impact - The number of travel agencies in China has surged, with a net increase of 8,341 agencies in one year, yet the average profit per agency has decreased by 11.9% to 58,505 yuan [22][25]. - The hotel industry is facing similar challenges, with an increase of nearly 500 star-rated hotels, but average occupancy rates have dropped from 50.7% to 49.2% [26][27]. - The shift towards self-sufficient travel is leading to a decline in traditional hotel and travel agency revenues, as consumers seek more cost-effective and personalized travel experiences [30][38].

Group 1 - The tourism industry is experiencing a paradox where tourist attractions are crowded, yet hotel occupancy rates are low, leading to significant price drops in accommodation [6][12][43] - In popular tourist destinations like Dunhuang and Zhaqina, hotel prices have halved compared to the previous year, with many rooms available for under 200 yuan [11][30] - The rise of self-driving tours and camping has shifted consumer behavior, with many tourists opting for alternative accommodations such as sleeping in cars or tents instead of hotels [16][22][44] Group 2 - The number of travel agencies in China has increased significantly, yet their profitability has declined, with an average annual profit of only 58,505 yuan per agency, down 11.9% from the previous year [25][27] - The hotel industry is facing similar challenges, with a rise in the number of star-rated hotels but a decrease in average occupancy rates from 50.7% to 49.2% [29][30] - The trend indicates a structural shift in the tourism market, where consumers prefer to customize their travel experiences rather than rely on packaged tours [37][39][51] Group 3 - The data from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism shows a 38% decline in organized domestic tourism, while single-service tourism has increased by 26.7%, indicating a shift in consumer preferences [35][36] - Tourists are increasingly looking for flexibility in their travel plans, choosing to decide on accommodations and activities on the go rather than following a fixed itinerary [50][54] - The traditional tourism model is being challenged, requiring travel agencies and hotels to adapt to the new consumer behavior or risk losing market share [34][52][53]