Group 1: Core Insights - The rise of the "emotional economy" is driven by widespread feelings of anxiety and "involution" among individuals, with over 90% experiencing emotional pressure, creating a market potential worth billions [1][2] - The shift in consumer motivation from functional needs to emotional satisfaction is evident, with 42% of consumers now shopping to "please themselves," a 9 percentage point increase from 2021 [2][3] - The Z generation (born 1995-2009) is a key driver of this consumption change, prioritizing personal experiences and emotional value over traditional product functionality [3][4] Group 2: Consumer Demographics - Women, young people, and highly educated individuals are the primary consumers in the emotional economy, with women making up 64% of this demographic [4][5] - The age distribution shows that 44% of consumers are in their 20s to early 30s, while 33.5% are aged 18-24, indicating a strong presence of younger consumers [4][5] - Stress relief methods vary by gender, with men preferring gaming and sports, while women lean towards shopping and socializing [4][5] Group 3: Consumption Trends - Emotional consumption is evident across various scenarios, including workplace humor and pet care, with significant increases in sales of high-end pet food and smart pet devices [6][7] - The trend of "sensory healing" is gaining traction, with the fragrance industry expected to grow at over 10% annually, and ASMR videos achieving billions of views [7][8] - Travel preferences among young people have shifted towards experiences that provide emotional relief, with 81.2% seeking to escape work and life pressures [7][8] Group 4: Market Potential - The emotional economy is manifesting in various sectors, including gaming, concerts, and pet care, showcasing unprecedented growth potential [29][30] - The Chinese gaming market is projected to exceed 300 billion yuan in revenue, reflecting a 13.95% year-on-year growth [31] - The concert industry has seen significant engagement, with over 34.2 million performances and ticket sales reaching 31.54 billion yuan [31]

Core Insights - The article discusses the transformation of small cities into popular tourist destinations through social media and flow economy, focusing on the "post-internet celebrity era" of urban development [1] Group 1: Tianshui's Success - Tianshui, a small city in Northwest China, gained popularity due to its spicy hotpot, with visitor numbers remaining high even after the initial surge [2][7] - The number of hotpot restaurants in Tianshui has increased fivefold to around 1,400 since its rise to fame [4] - Tianshui aims to elevate its hotpot to a recognized regional delicacy and has initiated trademark registration and industry association formation to support this goal [6] Group 2: Economic Impact - In 2024, Tianshui received 59.5 million tourists, generating a tourism revenue of 38.3 billion yuan, both showing over 23% growth [6] - The city has signed 253 investment projects with a total investment of 798.63 billion yuan, indicating a strong economic response to its newfound popularity [8] Group 3: Zibo's Strategy - Zibo, another city that gained fame for its barbecue, is working to diversify its tourism offerings beyond just food, aiming for a more sustainable tourism model [10][12] - The city has set a target to receive 65 million tourists and achieve over 64 billion yuan in tourism revenue by 2026 [12] - Zibo's industrial strategy includes developing a pre-packaged food industry and focusing on four key sectors: new materials, intelligent equipment, new pharmaceuticals, and electronic information [13] Group 4: Rongchang's Challenges - Rongchang, known for its "Lu Goose," experienced a significant influx of tourists but is now facing challenges in maintaining that interest [15][19] - The area saw a 743.6% increase in visitors during the May holiday, but numbers dropped significantly during the subsequent holiday period [17] - The local government has launched a development plan aiming for over 1 billion yuan in output value for the goose industry by 2026, indicating a strategic shift towards sustainable growth [19]

Core Insights - The tourism market is experiencing a continuous recovery, with traditional destinations maintaining popularity while lesser-known cities are emerging as new favorites during the recent holiday season [1] - The article explores how social media and the flow economy have transformed previously unnoticed small cities into popular tourist spots, raising questions about their sustainability and future development [1] Group 1: Tianshui's Transformation - Tianshui, a small city in Northwest China, gained sudden popularity due to a local spicy hotpot, leading to a significant increase in tourist numbers and local business growth [2][4] - The number of hotpot shops in Tianshui has surged to around 1,400, a fivefold increase since the city's rise to fame [4] - Tianshui aims to elevate its hotpot to a recognized regional delicacy and has initiated collective trademark registration and the establishment of an industry association to support this goal [5] Group 2: Economic Impact and Visitor Trends - In 2024, Tianshui is expected to receive 59.5 million tourists and achieve a tourism revenue of 38.3 billion yuan, both showing over 23% growth year-on-year [5] - The city has seen a shift in its visitor demographics, with an increase in tourists from eastern and coastal cities, indicating a broader appeal beyond local regions [5][10] - Tianshui's government has launched initiatives to attract investment, resulting in 253 signed projects with a total investment of approximately 798.63 billion yuan [9][8] Group 3: Zibo's Strategic Shift - Zibo, another city that gained fame through its barbecue, is actively working to diversify its tourism offerings and convert short-term visitor interest into long-term engagement [11][12] - The city has set ambitious tourism goals, aiming to host 65 million visitors and generate over 64 billion yuan in tourism revenue by 2026 [11] - Zibo's tourism revenue and visitor numbers have shown significant growth, with a 12% increase in visitor numbers and a 121.3% increase in revenue in 2024 compared to the previous year [12] Group 4: Rongchang's Challenges and Opportunities - Rongchang experienced a surge in tourism due to a viral local delicacy, but the influx of visitors has led to challenges in sustaining interest and managing market competition [15][16] - The local government has implemented a development plan targeting over 1 billion yuan in output value for its signature dish by 2026, aiming to establish Rongchang as a culinary landmark [17][18] - The city is facing a supply challenge for its local delicacy, necessitating adjustments in production and quality control to meet the growing demand [17]

Core Insights - The article discusses the ongoing recovery of the cultural and tourism market in China, highlighting the rise of lesser-known cities as new travel destinations driven by social media and the flow economy [1] - It explores the transformation of these cities from being "internet-famous" to achieving sustainable growth and development [1] Group 1: Tianshui's Success Story - Tianshui, a small city in Northwest China, has maintained its popularity since the viral rise of its spicy hotpot, with visitor numbers remaining high during holidays [2][5] - The number of hotpot restaurants in Tianshui has increased fivefold to around 1,400 since the dish gained fame, indicating a significant entrepreneurial response [2][3] - Tianshui aims to elevate its hotpot to a regional culinary symbol by applying for recognition as a "Chinese Famous Snack" and forming an industry association [3][4] Group 2: Economic Impact and Visitor Statistics - In 2024, Tianshui is expected to receive 59.5 million visitors and generate tourism revenue of 38.3 billion yuan, both showing over 23% growth year-on-year [4] - The city has seen a shift in its visitor demographics, attracting tourists from eastern and coastal regions, indicating a broader appeal [6] - Tianshui has signed 253 investment projects with a total investment of approximately 798.63 billion yuan, showcasing the economic opportunities arising from its newfound fame [8][7] Group 3: Zibo's Strategic Shift - Zibo, another city that gained fame for its barbecue, is actively working to diversify its tourism offerings and avoid being pigeonholed as a single-attribute destination [10][11] - Despite concerns about a decline in barbecue-related tourism, Zibo's key attractions have seen a 12% increase in visitor numbers and a 121.3% increase in revenue in 2024 [11] - The city has set ambitious goals to receive 65 million visitors and achieve over 64 billion yuan in tourism revenue by 2026 [10] Group 4: Rongchang's Transformation - Rongchang, which gained attention through its "Lu Goose" dish, experienced a massive influx of tourists, with 2.34 million visitors during the May Day holiday, leading to significant sales growth [16][14] - The local government has implemented a development plan aiming for over 1 billion yuan in output value for the Lu Goose industry by 2026, indicating a focus on sustainable growth [16] - The city is working to integrate its culinary identity into its urban fabric, promoting itself as a "Lu Goose culinary landmark" [15][16]

Core Insights - The tourism market in China is experiencing a revival, with traditional destinations maintaining popularity while smaller cities are emerging as new favorites due to social media influence and the flow economy [1] - The article explores how "internet-famous" cities can transition from temporary popularity to sustainable growth, focusing on the resilience and development strategies of these cities [1] Group 1: Tianshui's Transformation - Tianshui, a small city in Northwest China, gained attention through its spicy hotpot, leading to a significant increase in tourism and local businesses [2] - The number of hotpot restaurants in Tianshui has surged to approximately 1,400, a fivefold increase since its rise to fame [2] - Tianshui aims to establish its hotpot as a regional culinary symbol, applying for recognition as a "Chinese Famous Snack" and forming an industry association [5] Group 2: Economic Impact and Visitor Trends - In 2024, Tianshui is projected to receive 59.5 million tourists and generate tourism revenue of 38.3 billion yuan, both showing over 23% growth year-on-year [5] - The city has seen a diversification in its visitor demographics, attracting tourists from eastern and coastal cities, indicating a broader appeal [6] - Tianshui's local government is actively leveraging the tourism boom to attract investment, with 253 signed projects totaling approximately 79.86 billion yuan [8] Group 3: Zibo's Strategic Shift - Zibo, another city that gained fame for its barbecue, is working to expand its tourism beyond this single attraction, aiming for a more comprehensive cultural tourism strategy [10] - The city has set ambitious goals to receive 65 million tourists and achieve over 64 billion yuan in tourism revenue by 2026 [11] - Despite concerns about declining interest in barbecue, Zibo's key tourist sites reported a 12% increase in visitor numbers and a 121.3% increase in revenue in 2024 [11] Group 4: Rongchang's Adaptation - Rongchang, known for its "Lu Goose," experienced a surge in tourism, with 2.34 million visitors during the May Day holiday, leading to significant economic activity [20] - The local government has implemented a development plan to enhance the goose industry, targeting over 1 billion yuan in output by 2026 [22] - The city is facing challenges in maintaining supply for the increased demand, highlighting the need for sustainable growth strategies [20]

Core Insights - The article discusses the transformation of Tianshui into a "internet celebrity city" driven by the popularity of its local dish, spicy hot pot, during the 2024 Spring Festival, highlighting the city's cultural and tourism revival [4][18][20]. Group 1: Tourism and Economic Impact - During the National Day holiday, Tianshui received a significant influx of tourists, with the local hot pot shop experiencing long queues and increased demand for local products [6][7][16]. - Tianshui's tourism revenue reached 38.3 billion yuan in 2024, with a year-on-year growth exceeding 23%, and the city welcomed 59.5 million visitors [18][21]. - The local government has established a long-term mechanism to manage tourism, focusing on food safety, service quality, and infrastructure improvements [17][20]. Group 2: Cultural and Culinary Development - Tianshui's spicy hot pot, made with locally sourced ingredients, has gained national recognition, leading to a surge in the number of hot pot shops, which increased fivefold to around 1,400 [8][11]. - The city is actively promoting its cultural heritage and local cuisine, aiming to elevate spicy hot pot to a symbol of Tianshui, similar to other regional dishes like Chongqing hot pot [10][20]. - Tianshui has initiated efforts to standardize and industrialize its hot pot products, including the establishment of an industry association to support local businesses [10][21]. Group 3: Investment and Business Opportunities - The rise in Tianshui's profile has attracted significant investment interest, with 29 tourism projects signed during a recent promotional event, totaling 1.722 billion yuan [21][22]. - The local government is leveraging the increased visibility to enhance its business environment, focusing on key industries such as integrated circuits and artificial intelligence [21][23]. - Tianshui's transformation from a lesser-known city to a recognized destination has created new opportunities for local businesses and investors [23].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the transformation of Tianshui into a "net celebrity city" driven by the popularity of its local dish, spicy hot pot, and explores the long-term effects of this phenomenon on the city's tourism and economy [4][15][20]. Group 1: Tourism and Economic Impact - During the National Day holiday, Tianshui experienced a surge in tourism, with significant visitor numbers and a notable increase in local business activity [4][15]. - Tianshui's tourism revenue reached 38.3 billion yuan in 2024, with a year-on-year growth exceeding 23% [15]. - The city has seen a shift in its visitor demographic, attracting tourists from eastern and coastal cities, indicating a broader appeal beyond its immediate region [14]. Group 2: Local Business Development - The number of spicy hot pot restaurants in Tianshui has increased fivefold to approximately 1,400 since the dish gained popularity [7]. - Local entrepreneurs have capitalized on the trend, with many businesses pivoting to offer spicy hot pot, leading to a wave of new startups [7][9]. - Tianshui is working to enhance its brand recognition by applying for national culinary designations and establishing a collective trademark for its spicy hot pot [9][10]. Group 3: Government and Community Response - The local government has implemented a long-term management strategy to maintain the influx of tourists, focusing on food safety, service quality, and infrastructure improvements [14][15]. - Community initiatives, including volunteer support and enhanced transportation services, have been established to ensure a positive experience for visitors [13][14]. - Tianshui's government has actively engaged in promoting its cultural heritage and tourism resources, organizing events and developing unique travel products [16][18]. Group 4: Future Prospects and Investments - Tianshui has successfully signed 29 tourism-related projects, with 20 of them located in the city, totaling an investment of 1.722 billion yuan [18]. - The city is leveraging its historical and cultural assets to attract further investment, with a focus on enhancing its industrial base and improving the business environment [19][20]. - Tianshui aims to transition from a temporary surge in popularity to sustainable growth by fostering a robust tourism and culinary industry [20].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the ongoing recovery of the cultural and tourism market in China, particularly during the extended National Day holiday, with significant growth in cross-province travel orders and innovative tourism offerings in popular cities like Harbin, Zibo, and Tianshui [1][17]. Group 1: Harbin's Tourism Developments - Harbin is breaking the "winter-only" image by promoting off-season ice and snow tourism, with attractions like the Ice Snow World showcasing real ice and snow experiences [1][4]. - The city has introduced themed tourism routes focusing on red culture, connecting historical sites to enhance visitor engagement during the holiday [6]. - Harbin is also integrating agriculture into tourism, offering unique rural experiences such as viewing giant rice field paintings and riding through rice paddies [5]. Group 2: Zibo's Culinary Tourism - Zibo has expanded its tourism offerings beyond its initial fame for barbecue, ranking 39th in domestic tourism popularity, surpassing coastal cities [7]. - New projects like the "This Has Bureau" initiative combine local cuisine, cultural exhibitions, and experiential activities, enhancing the visitor experience [8]. - The city is upgrading night-time economy offerings, blending food and entertainment to create immersive cultural experiences [9]. Group 3: Tianshui's Culinary and Cultural Integration - Tianshui has leveraged its famous spicy hot pot to attract tourists, with ongoing efforts to promote deeper cultural experiences beyond just food [12][13]. - The city has introduced a ticketing system allowing access to multiple attractions, enhancing convenience for visitors [13]. - Tianshui has launched various cultural events and activities, significantly increasing tourist engagement and spending [15][16]. Group 4: Industry Trends and Future Directions - The 2025 National Day tourism trend report indicates a shift towards experiential travel, with emotional value and efficiency becoming key factors in travel decisions [19]. - Experts suggest that to transition from "internet-famous" cities to sustainable tourist destinations, there must be a focus on unique cultural experiences and diverse product offerings [18]. - The tourism industry is encouraged to adapt to changing consumer demands, emphasizing the importance of service quality and product diversity to foster repeat visits [19].

Core Insights - The dry steamed dish industry is experiencing a wave of closures, with many small shops failing within a few months of operation [1][3][4] - The rapid expansion of dry steamed dish brands has led to intense competition, resulting in a lack of differentiation among offerings [20][30] - The reliance on fresh ingredients is critical for the success of dry steamed dishes, yet many establishments struggle to maintain quality [25][28] Industry Overview - The trend of opening dry steamed dish shops began with a popular restaurant in Guangdong, which sparked a surge in interest and new openings across various regions [10][11] - The market saw a significant increase in new store openings, with some brands reportedly achieving a turnover rate of over 500% [13][14] - Despite the initial excitement, many entrepreneurs face harsh realities, including unsold equipment and financial losses [6][9] Business Model Challenges - The low entry barriers for starting a dry steamed dish business have led to oversaturation in the market, with many shops offering similar products [15][20] - The operational model often compromises on ingredient freshness, which is essential for customer retention and repeat business [24][25] - The simplistic cooking method reduces the need for skilled chefs, but this also contributes to a lack of quality control [19][22] Consumer Behavior - The pricing strategy varies, with some establishments offering low-cost fast food options while others position themselves as higher-end dining experiences [23][24] - Consumer feedback highlights issues with food freshness and quality, which can deter repeat visits [26][28] - The market's focus on trendy, low-cost offerings may lead to a cycle of short-lived popularity without sustainable growth [30][32] Historical Context - The current situation mirrors past trends in the food industry, where similar concepts like "mala duck" gained popularity but quickly faded due to lack of product differentiation and quality [30][33] - Industry experts suggest that entrepreneurs should consider established food categories with proven longevity rather than chasing fleeting trends [34][35]

Core Viewpoint - Tianshui has transformed into a vibrant tourist destination during the summer, driven by its unique culinary offerings, particularly its spicy hot pot, which has attracted visitors from all over the country and beyond [1][3]. Group 1: Culinary Market - The restaurant market in Tianshui has experienced a significant surge, with local specialties like spicy hot pot becoming major attractions for tourists [3][5]. - During the 2025 Fuxi Sacrifice Ceremony, Tianshui gained global attention, drawing visitors who are eager to experience the rich cultural heritage associated with Fuxi [3]. - Many restaurants have extended their operating hours to accommodate the influx of customers, with some reporting revenue increases by several times during the ceremony period [5]. Group 2: Accommodation Market - The accommodation sector is facing a "high-light moment," with a significant increase in demand leading to a shortage of available rooms [7]. - Hotels and guesthouses in Tianshui are experiencing high occupancy rates, with some areas fully booked weeks in advance due to the influx of tourists from various regions [7]. - Data indicates that the average occupancy rate during the summer is 60%, with both visitor numbers and revenue quadrupling compared to the previous year [7]. Group 3: Rural Tourism - Tianshui's rural tourism is emerging as a new highlight, with areas like Suwan Folk Manor focusing on agricultural culture and eco-tourism [9]. - The manor has introduced various activities such as boating, dance performances, and bonfire parties, enhancing the overall tourist experience [9]. Group 4: Cultural and Educational Activities - Local libraries have become popular spots for residents during the summer, implementing extended hours to accommodate increased reading activity [11]. - The summer consumption boom in Tianshui reflects the city's efforts in integrating culture, tourism, and commerce, successfully attracting a large number of visitors and enhancing the city's economic growth and visibility [11].