Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the emergence of "soft" adventure tourism experiences, such as "lazy" rafting and "gentle" bungee jumping, which cater to a broader audience seeking less intense and more shareable experiences [9][12][29]. Group 1: New Tourism Trends - The "lazy" rafting experience allows participants to float on calm waters without the traditional thrills, appealing to those who prefer relaxation over adrenaline [9][10]. - Similar "soft" versions of extreme sports, like bungee jumping, have been introduced, focusing on safety and comfort while still providing a sense of achievement [11][12]. - Social media plays a significant role in shaping these experiences, as people are more inclined to participate in activities that look appealing and safe for sharing online [18][21]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The tourism industry is shifting towards offering diverse experiences that cater to different consumer preferences, separating thrill-seekers from those looking for leisurely activities [29][30]. - The success of these "soft" experiences is evident, with significant increases in visitor numbers, as they attract a wider demographic [12][24]. - The article highlights a cultural difference in tourism approaches, where Chinese consumers increasingly prefer comfortable and visually appealing experiences over traditional physically demanding ones [31][32].

Core Viewpoint - The emergence of "soft" adventure tourism experiences, such as "lazy drifting" and "gentle bungee jumping," reflects a shift in consumer preferences towards safer, more relaxed activities that still provide social media appeal [1][12][38]. Group 1: New Tourism Trends - The "lazy drifting" experience in Shandong's Linyi offers a non-traditional approach to rafting, focusing on relaxation rather than adrenaline [1][7]. - Similar projects are being developed in other regions, such as Guangxi and Zhejiang, emphasizing safety and ease of participation [7][12]. - The introduction of "soft" bungee jumping in Zhejiang has led to a significant increase in visitor numbers, with some locations seeing a five to six-fold increase in summer traffic [12][26]. Group 2: Consumer Behavior - The majority of tourists now prefer experiences that are safe, simple, and visually appealing for social media, rather than extreme challenges [15][19]. - Social media platforms have transformed the way tourism experiences are marketed, allowing consumers to make quick decisions based on visual content [19][20]. - The trend indicates a growing divide between thrill-seekers and those looking for leisurely experiences, with each group having distinct preferences [38][40]. Group 3: Market Implications - The tourism industry is adapting by creating tiered experiences that cater to different consumer segments, allowing for broader participation [35][38]. - The ability to provide experiences that satisfy both the desire for adventure and the need for comfort is becoming a key competitive advantage for tourism operators [25][39]. - This shift in focus from traditional adventure tourism to more accessible experiences is indicative of changing societal values regarding leisure and travel [43][44].