Core Insights - The article discusses the closure of 10 4A and 5A scenic spots in the past five years, highlighting the significant investments, often amounting to billions, that have led to some becoming "ghost towns" [1] - It raises questions about the evaluation criteria for scenic spots in China, particularly how they achieve 4A to 5A ratings [1] - The article also explores the financial viability of numerous scenic spots and the decline in popularity of once-coveted tourist attractions [1] Group 1 - Ten scenic spots rated 4A and 5A have closed in the last five years, with investments reaching billions [1] - The article questions the criteria used for rating scenic spots from A to 5A in China [1] - It examines the financial performance of many scenic spots and the reasons behind the decline in visitor numbers to previously popular attractions [1]

Core Insights - The article highlights the innovative marketing strategies adopted by the Laoshan Scenic Area to enhance its visibility and visitor numbers amidst evolving consumer demands in the tourism industry [1][5]. Group 1: Innovative Marketing Strategies - The scenic area has launched a series of themed marketing activities, breaking away from traditional sightseeing models, and leveraging cross-industry collaborations to attract visitors [2]. - During the summer, the scenic area capitalized on the popularity of the animated film "Liao Zhai: Lan Ruo Si" by organizing immersive performances and promotional activities, including a lottery for tickets, which resulted in a significant increase in visitor engagement [2]. - The scenic area implemented a "ticket root economy," offering discounts to visitors holding movie or concert tickets, which successfully boosted attendance during events like the Qingdao International Beer Festival, attracting 1.116 million visitors [2]. Group 2: Targeted Marketing Approaches - The scenic area has developed precise marketing strategies tailored to different visitor demographics, utilizing data analysis to understand visitor preferences and behaviors [3]. - By collaborating with platforms like Ctrip and Meituan, the scenic area has launched customized tours and ticket subsidies, leading to a notable increase in out-of-province visitors, particularly from Jiangsu Province [3]. - Efforts to expand international visitor markets have included partnerships with international travel agencies, focusing on attracting tourists from Japan, Southeast Asia, and Europe, with recent visits from foreign tourists from Azerbaijan marking a significant achievement [3]. Group 3: Digital Transformation - The scenic area is advancing its digital transformation by implementing new technologies to create immersive marketing experiences, enhancing visitor satisfaction and engagement [4]. - A collaboration with Ctrip has led to the launch of a multilingual smart ticketing system, which has served over 13,223 visitors and generated significant ticket sales, indicating a successful integration of technology in enhancing visitor experience [4]. - The scenic area has also introduced online platforms for reservations and smart navigation, improving visitor convenience and reducing wait times, thereby increasing overall satisfaction [5]. Group 4: Overall Impact - Through the implementation of innovative marketing activities, targeted outreach, and digital enhancements, the scenic area has successfully increased both its brand influence and visitor numbers, setting a benchmark for quality development in the tourism sector [5].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the traffic management and transportation options for visitors to West Lake during the autumn tourist season, highlighting the implementation of vehicle restrictions and various transportation alternatives to enhance visitor experience [1][2]. Group 1: Traffic Management - From September to November, on weekends and holidays, West Lake implements an odd-even license plate traffic control from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, where vehicles with specific ending numbers are allowed entry on designated days [1]. - In the Lingyin area and along South Mountain Road, additional restrictions apply, requiring drivers to apply for a "West Lake Pass" at least one day in advance, with each vehicle limited to one use per month [1]. Group 2: Parking and Transportation Options - There are several transfer parking lots available around West Lake, including four on the north side and two on the south side, all equipped with bus connections to major attractions [2]. - Visitors can opt for a "subway + bus" combination for seamless transfers to various scenic spots, with multiple subway stations providing direct bus services [2]. - For those taking tourist buses, there are designated parking areas outside the West Lake scenic area, where buses must park and transfer passengers to internal bus services during peak hours [2].