Core Viewpoint - Xingcheng, a county-level city in Liaoning Province, is leveraging its strong swimwear industry to boost tourism, transitioning from a manufacturing hub to a tourist destination through innovative strategies and local engagement [2][19]. Group 1: Tourism Development - The local tourism bureau has implemented a "first inquiry responsibility system" and "advance compensation" mechanism to enhance visitor experience, aiming to resolve disputes quickly and maintain a positive image of Xingcheng [2][4]. - In the first eight months of this year, Xingcheng received 10.46 million domestic tourists, a year-on-year increase of 16.38%, with tourism revenue reaching 5.518 billion yuan, also up 16.17% [3]. - The city has seen a significant increase in hotel occupancy rates, with nearly full bookings during the recent National Day holiday, and has added nearly 8,000 new beds to accommodate the growing number of visitors [4][3]. Group 2: Cultural and Emotional Engagement - The city is focusing on creating emotional value for tourists, branding itself as "Happy Xingcheng" with a simple smiley face symbol to attract younger visitors [10][11]. - Local initiatives include creating engaging experiences such as the "Smile Road" and colorful installations that have garnered significant online attention, leading to increased visitor engagement [11][13]. - The average stay duration for tourists has increased from 1.2 days to nearly 2 days, with a notable decrease in the average age of visitors by 10 years [17]. Group 3: Swimwear Industry Synergy - Xingcheng is recognized as the largest swimwear production base in China, producing 200 million pieces annually, with a market share of over 40% domestically and 25% internationally, generating an output value of 15 billion yuan [2][19]. - The synergy between the swimwear industry and tourism is evident, as the local high-end swimwear brand "Fandean" has opened a store in the ancient city, integrating cultural elements into its products [19]. - The city aims to transform its manufacturing capabilities into brand value and immersive experiences, addressing challenges such as reliance on external suppliers and the need for brand differentiation [20]. Group 4: Future Aspirations - The local government has set ambitious goals to develop Xingcheng into a "tourism hotspot city," then a "residential tourism city," ultimately attracting talent for long-term residency [21]. - Strategies for future growth include enhancing planning, accelerating projects, innovating business models, and improving marketing and service quality to elevate the city's brand recognition [21].

Core Insights - The article highlights the transformation of Xingcheng, a small city in Liaoning Province, into a burgeoning tourist destination, driven by a combination of local initiatives and the unexpected popularity of the TV series "Riding the Wind and Waves" [2][6][10]. Tourism Development - Xingcheng has seen a significant increase in domestic tourism, with 10.46 million visitors from January to August this year, marking a 16.38% year-on-year growth, and tourism revenue reaching 5.518 billion yuan, up 16.17% [3]. - The city has implemented a "first inquiry responsibility system" and "advance compensation" mechanism to enhance visitor satisfaction, with the tourism bureau head emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive impression of the city [2][3]. - The average stay of tourists has increased from 1.2 days to nearly 2 days, with a decrease in the average age of visitors by 10 years [17]. Economic Impact of Swimwear Industry - Xingcheng is recognized as the largest swimwear production hub in China, accounting for over 40% of the domestic market and 25% of the international market, with an annual output of 200 million pieces and a production value of 15 billion yuan [2][18]. - The local swimwear industry is benefiting from the tourism boom, with high-end brands like "Fandean" opening stores in the ancient city, integrating cultural elements into their designs [18]. Marketing and Branding Strategies - The local tourism bureau has adopted innovative marketing strategies, including the creation of a "Smile Road" and engaging social media influencers to promote the city [11][14]. - The city aims to enhance its brand recognition and market influence through comprehensive tourism initiatives that integrate local products and cultural experiences [21]. Future Aspirations - The local government has set ambitious goals to transform Xingcheng into a "tourism hotspot," then a "residential city," and ultimately attract talent for long-term settlement [19].