Fuzhou has emerged as one of China's most popular destinations this Spring Festival, blending rich history, vibrant culture and modern experiences to attract visitors from across the country and beyond.

During the holiday, the Sanfang Qixiang historic and cultural area remained a major draw, with the iconic Love Tree attracting countless visitors eager to capture a festive photo. According to Professor Zheng Xiangmin of Huaqiao University, Fuzhou's growing popularity is the result of years of steady development. From well-known attractions to distinctive cultural traditions, the city has gradually built a strong and loyal visitor base.

Fuzhou has made major investments in cultural and tourism development, integrating heritage preservation with modern tourism. Restoration and revitalization projects in historic districts such as Sanfang Qixiang, Shangxiahang and Yantai Hill, together with developments at Zhongzhou Island and Luozhou Ancient Town, have expanded the city's cultural landscape and helped create a "whole-city tourism" experience. Last year, Fuzhou was listed among the world's top 100 tourist destinations for the first time, while its major attractions welcomed more than 55 million visitors.

To celebrate the Spring Festival, the city launched a Cultural and Tourism Month featuring more than 1,800 events. The program showcased traditional culture, red tourism, immersive festive experiences and Fuzhou-style performances. Colorful parades and shows brought local heritage to life, from Minju Opera to traditional specialties such as Qinghong wine, delighting both domestic and international visitors.

"Chinese New Year traditions are fascinating. In Fuzhou, I experienced unique performances that made for an unforgettable memory," said Frantisek, a visitor from London, England.

Innovation and convenience also enhanced the visitor experience. AI-guided tours offered interactive exploration of historic alleys, while heritage markets combined traditional crafts with contemporary design. Even small details, such as festive motifs on airport boarding passes and thoughtful travel services, added to the city's welcoming atmosphere.

To further stimulate consumption, Fuzhou launched a 10 million yuan ($1.45 million) New Year campaign, including 6 million yuan in shopping vouchers and 4 million yuan in dining vouchers, benefiting visitors across the city's major commercial districts.

With its blend of cultural heritage, creative innovation and attentive hospitality, Fuzhou has turned the Spring Festival into a vibrant and immersive experience, leaving visitors with lasting memories of the city's warmth and festive charm.