Core Insights - The rapid development of the cultural tourism industry in China has led to the emergence of "internet celebrity cities," with Hunchun in Jilin province becoming a notable example due to its unique border location and cultural diversity [1][2] - Hunchun is leveraging the growing trend of border tourism, attracting visitors with its scenic views and local cuisine, despite challenges such as the lack of a civilian airport [1][2] Group 1: Border Tourism Opportunities - Hunchun is capitalizing on the G331 border tourism route, enhancing its tourism infrastructure and resources, and has launched the "Northeast Asia Long Journey" sightseeing train [2][8] - The city has a resident population of approximately 230,000, with over one-third being Korean ethnic, contributing to its rich cultural offerings [2][8] Group 2: Cross-Border Tourism Growth - The number of tourists engaging in cross-border travel through Hunchun has steadily increased, with visible Russian tourists in the city [4][6] - Hunchun's border crossing has extended its operational hours and days to accommodate the growing influx of travelers, with peak days seeing up to 6,000 entries [5][6] Group 3: Tourism Infrastructure and Services - Hunchun has established international consumer rights protection stations to enhance the shopping experience for Russian tourists [7] - The city has developed a variety of tourism services, including international transportation options to Vladivostok, which is only about 260 kilometers away [7][8] Group 4: Cultural and Recreational Developments - Hunchun has transformed from a transit point to a destination by developing new cultural and recreational projects, including theme parks and cultural complexes [9][11] - The city has become known for its seafood, particularly the "king crab," and hosts food festivals to attract visitors [12][13] Group 5: Events and Festivals - Hunchun has organized various cultural and sports events, such as the "Friendship Cup" football tournament, to enhance its tourism appeal [13][14] - The city has seen an increase in visitors during seasonal events, particularly from Russian tourists celebrating New Year festivities [13][14] Group 6: Economic Impact and Employment - The tourism sector in Hunchun has stimulated local employment, with businesses like seafood processing companies providing jobs to over 200 locals [16][18] - The establishment of the Northeast Asia International Commodity City has created numerous job opportunities and facilitated cross-border shopping [16][18] Group 7: Innovative Marketing Strategies - Local entrepreneurs are utilizing live streaming and social media to promote Hunchun's attractions and products, significantly increasing visitor traffic [17][18] - The rise of travel photography services has also contributed to the city's tourism growth, with many visitors seeking unique experiences [17][18] Group 8: Future Prospects - Hunchun aims to enhance its tourism offerings by developing winter tourism and improving accommodation and entertainment options to extend the tourist season [18] - The local government is optimistic about Hunchun becoming a key tourism destination in Northeast Asia, with cultural tourism expected to be a pillar of economic development [18]

Core Viewpoint - The rapid development of the cultural tourism industry in China has led to the emergence of "internet-famous cities," with Hunchun, a border city in Jilin, becoming a notable example due to its unique cultural and scenic offerings, attracting a growing number of tourists [1][2]. Group 1: Border Tourism Opportunities - Hunchun is leveraging the growing popularity of border tourism, which allows for spontaneous travel experiences, despite the lack of a civilian airport [1][2]. - The city has integrated various cultural and tourism resources and improved infrastructure, including the launch of the "Northeast Asia Long Journey" sightseeing train, enhancing the travel experience along the border [2][8]. Group 2: Cross-Border Tourism Growth - Hunchun has seen a steady increase in cross-border tourism, with a notable presence of Russian tourists, facilitated by improved border crossing operations [4][5]. - The local government has extended border crossing hours and days to accommodate the rising number of travelers, with peak days seeing up to 6,000 entries [5][6]. Group 3: Cultural and Culinary Attractions - Hunchun has developed new tourist attractions, including the "Wastok Happy Island" theme park and the Northeast Tiger and Leopard Nature Science Museum, which have significantly increased visitor numbers [11][12]. - The city has established a reputation for its seafood, particularly the "Emperor Crab," and hosts food festivals to enhance its culinary tourism appeal [12][13]. Group 4: Events and Festivals - Hunchun has organized various cultural and sports events, such as the "Friendship Cup" football tournament, to attract tourists and promote cross-cultural exchanges [13][14]. - Seasonal events and festivals have drawn significant visitor numbers, contributing to the city's growing popularity as a tourist destination [13][18]. Group 5: Economic Impact and Employment - The tourism industry in Hunchun has stimulated local employment, with businesses like the Laoji Seafood Company providing jobs to over 200 locals [16][17]. - The establishment of the Northeast Asia International Commodity City has created numerous job opportunities and facilitated the growth of the cross-border shopping sector [16][17]. Group 6: Innovative Marketing and Engagement - Local entrepreneurs are utilizing live streaming and social media to promote Hunchun's attractions, enhancing visitor engagement and driving traffic to the area [17][18]. - The rise of travel photography services has also contributed to the tourism experience, with local businesses capitalizing on the trend [17][18].