Core Insights - The tourism market is shifting from traditional scenic spots to a more diverse range of destinations, with a notable increase in interest for lesser-known locations [7][8][22] - The popularity of 5A scenic spots is declining, as evidenced by a 50% drop in brand index over the past four years, while searches for "less crowded destinations" surged by 200% [8][22] - The over-commercialization of 5A scenic spots has led to a decline in visitor experience, with many tourists feeling exploited by high fees and poor service [10][12][26] Group 1: Changing Tourism Trends - The phrase "one must visit Xinjiang once in a lifetime" has gained popularity, leading to increased traffic but also chaos in tourist areas [2][4] - Tourists are increasingly avoiding crowded 5A scenic spots in favor of quieter, less commercialized locations [3][41] - Data shows a significant rise in interest for "hidden gem" destinations, with searches increasing by 300% for lesser-known cities [42] Group 2: Economic Impact on Scenic Spots - The revenue growth of traditional scenic spots is not keeping pace with rising operational costs, leading to financial strain [20][21] - The introduction of policies to lower ticket prices for key state-owned scenic spots has negatively impacted their profitability [19] - Despite the challenges, some 5A scenic spots are investing heavily in infrastructure and attractions to attract visitors [23][22] Group 3: Visitor Experience and Expectations - Tourists report feeling like "prey" in over-commercialized environments, where additional fees for activities and amenities are common [14][12] - The experience at 5A scenic spots is often marred by overcrowding, leading to dissatisfaction among visitors [40][39] - There is a growing trend among younger travelers to seek authentic experiences, moving away from traditional tourist paths [60][56] Group 4: Competition and Market Dynamics - The rise of alternative attractions, such as music festivals, is drawing younger audiences away from traditional scenic spots [58][59] - The tourism landscape is becoming increasingly competitive, with lesser-known destinations gaining traction due to their unique offerings [22][49] - The shift in consumer preferences indicates a demand for more personalized and less commercialized travel experiences [60][56]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the declining reputation and increasing criticism of 5A tourist attractions in China, highlighting the disparity between the quantity of these attractions and their quality, leading to a perception of many being "watered down" or not deserving of the 5A designation [6][9][15]. Group 1: Overview of 5A Scenic Areas - The number of 5A scenic areas has increased from 66 in 2007 to 358 by 2024, but the quality has not kept pace with this growth [9][21]. - Early 5A scenic areas like the Summer Palace and the Great Wall were once popular, but many newer additions have faced scrutiny and criticism [7][10]. - Social media has highlighted the most controversial 5A scenic areas, with significant complaints about attractions like Tianya Haijiao and Yellow Crane Tower, which have been described as disappointing [9][10]. Group 2: Quality Concerns - Many 5A scenic areas are criticized for their lack of authenticity and quality, with visitors feeling misled by the marketing of these attractions [10][17]. - The article cites specific examples of poor experiences at various 5A sites, such as overpriced and subpar food and inadequate facilities [12][20]. - A study from Sun Yat-sen University indicates that visitors to cultural attractions prioritize the quality of cultural and atmospheric experiences over ticket prices and services [14]. Group 3: Evaluation Criteria for 5A Designation - The criteria for achieving 5A status focus more on service and environmental quality rather than the actual scenic quality, with a scoring system that emphasizes infrastructure over natural beauty [21][22]. - The evaluation process has been criticized for allowing attractions with less impressive natural features to achieve 5A status simply by improving facilities [22][26]. - The article notes that many attractions that have received 5A status are located in easily accessible urban areas, which may skew the evaluation process in their favor [25][26]. Group 4: Public Sentiment and Future Outlook - There is a growing public sentiment that the 5A designation has lost its significance, leading to calls for a new classification system, such as a proposed "6A" rating for truly exceptional attractions [36][37]. - The article highlights that despite the criticisms, some attractions like Jiuzhaigou are still regarded highly due to their natural beauty and effective management practices [37][40]. - The ongoing issues with management and visitor experience at many 5A sites suggest a need for reform in how these attractions are evaluated and maintained [28][29].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increasing number of 5A tourist attractions in China, questioning their quality and the criteria for their designation, suggesting that many have become "watered down" or lack genuine appeal [5][6][12]. Group 1: Expansion of 5A Scenic Areas - The number of 5A scenic areas has increased significantly, reaching 358 by 2024, with a notable addition of 40 new sites, marking a peak in the last decade [7][8]. - The initial 5A scenic areas, established in 2007, included famous sites like the Summer Palace and the Great Wall, which were once highly regarded and attracted massive tourist crowds [7][8]. Group 2: Quality Concerns - Despite the increase in quantity, the quality of many 5A scenic areas has declined, with some long-established sites losing their reputation and new additions facing skepticism [8][10]. - Social media feedback highlights significant dissatisfaction with certain 5A sites, such as Tianya Haijiao and Yellow Crane Tower, where visitors felt misled by the actual experiences compared to their expectations [10][12]. Group 3: Criticism of the Evaluation System - The criteria for achieving 5A status focus more on service and environmental quality rather than the scenic appeal, with a scoring system that prioritizes infrastructure over visitor experience [17][20]. - The evaluation process has been criticized for allowing sites with minimal cultural or natural significance to attain 5A status, leading to perceptions of "fake" or "watered-down" attractions [12][14]. Group 4: Common Issues in 5A Scenic Areas - Many 5A scenic areas suffer from poor management, inadequate facilities, and excessive commercialization, which detracts from the visitor experience [24][25]. - Reports of long queues, unsatisfactory hygiene conditions, and aggressive pricing strategies have become common complaints among tourists [26][28]. Group 5: Emergence of Alternative Ratings - In response to the perceived decline in quality of 5A attractions, there is a growing call for a new rating system, such as a proposed "6A" designation, to better reflect the true quality of tourist destinations [29][30]. - Popular sites like Jiuzhaigou are highlighted as exemplary models due to their natural beauty and effective management, contrasting sharply with many current 5A sites [30][34].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increasing number of 5A-rated tourist attractions in China, questioning their quality and authenticity as many new additions seem to lack the expected standards and have received criticism from visitors [4][9][18]. Group 1: Overview of 5A Scenic Areas - The first batch of 5A scenic areas was established in 2007, including famous sites like the Summer Palace and the Great Wall [5]. - By 2015, the number of 5A scenic areas had more than doubled, with a concentration in easily accessible regions like Beijing and the Yangtze River Delta [6]. - As of 2024, there are 358 5A scenic areas across the country, marking a peak in new additions [7][9]. Group 2: Quality Concerns - Despite the increase in quantity, the quality of many 5A scenic areas has declined, leading to public dissatisfaction [9][18]. - Notable examples of controversial 5A scenic areas include Tianya Haijiao and Yellow Crane Tower, which have been criticized for not meeting visitor expectations [10][11]. - The article highlights that many visitors feel deceived by the disparity between the advertised experience and the actual offerings of these attractions [10][11]. Group 3: Criticism of New Additions - The recent addition of 19 new 5A scenic areas has sparked significant criticism, with many being labeled as "watered-down" or lacking authenticity [18][19]. - Examples of criticized areas include Hengshui Lake, which is perceived as a generic park, and Zhoucun Ancient Commercial Street, which is seen as overly commercialized [21][22]. - The article notes that the criteria for becoming a 5A scenic area focus more on infrastructure and service quality rather than the uniqueness of the attractions [26][28]. Group 4: Visitor Experience Issues - Many 5A scenic areas face operational challenges, including poor management, cleanliness issues, and excessive commercialization, especially during peak tourist seasons [37][39]. - Visitors often report long wait times, inadequate facilities, and high prices for subpar food, leading to a negative overall experience [39][42]. - The article suggests that the disparity between the 5A rating and actual visitor experiences has led to calls for a new classification system, such as a proposed "6A" rating to better reflect quality [43][45].