Core Insights - The opening of the Jiuzhai-Mianyang Expressway (referred to as "Jiuzhai Expressway") has significantly transformed travel experiences in Sichuan, promoting a "fast travel, slow tourism" model [2][4] - The expressway has connected various tourist attractions, enhancing the overall tourism landscape in the region and encouraging visitors to explore beyond just the Jiuzhai Valley [2][4] Group 1: Jiuzhai Expressway Impact - The Jiuzhai Expressway officially opened on September 29, 2025, marking a new era for travel in northwest Sichuan, with over 1.55 million vehicles recorded in the first month and over 70% of traffic being self-driving [2] - Travel time from Chengdu to Jiuzhai Valley has been reduced from 8 hours to 4 hours, making weekend trips feasible for tourists [2] - The expressway has activated regional tourism resources, allowing for a more leisurely exploration of attractions along the route, such as Li Bai's hometown and various natural reserves [2][4] Group 2: Tourism Growth Statistics - During the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holidays, the Jiuzhai Expressway facilitated 365,760 visitors to Pingwu, generating a tourism revenue of 168 million yuan, representing year-on-year increases of 24% and 36% respectively [4] - Jiuzhai Valley received a peak of 305,700 visitors, with a record single-day reception of 41,000 on October 4 [4] - The average occupancy rate of hotels and guesthouses in Jiuzhai County exceeded 80%, with many tourists extending their stays to enjoy a rhythm of daytime sightseeing and nighttime lodging in the county [4] Group 3: Broader Implications for Sichuan Tourism - The Jiuzhai Expressway is a key component of Sichuan's initiative to create a "Great Jiuzhai Integrated Travel and Transportation Demonstration Zone," reflecting a broader trend of integrating transportation and tourism across the province [4][5] - Sichuan has been a pioneer in developing integrated travel and transportation, having launched several special plans for areas like Emei and Shangri-La, and is focused on building demonstration zones for this integration [4][5] - The "Three Mountains Tourism Loop" in Emei, which connects multiple scenic spots, exemplifies the successful implementation of this integrated approach, enhancing visitor experiences and alleviating congestion at popular sites [5]