China offers free entry to over 500 tourist attractions during the holiday period.

China's National Day is celebrated annually on October 1st. This upcoming major holiday marks the first extended break since the country went into lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

China's National Day holiday lasts for eight days, from October 1st to 8th. Additionally, this year, the Mid-Autumn Festival coincides with National Day. Therefore, the holiday is even more eagerly anticipated by Chinese people. After spending most of the first half of 2020 in self-isolation at home, many are looking forward to starting their travel plans.

And the good news for eager travelers is that more than 500 tourist attractions across the country will be open free of charge during the holiday.

In early August, Hubei province announced that all A-grade tourist attractions would be open free of charge to domestic tourists. The free entry event started on August 8th and will last until the end of the year. The tourism administration of Altai province in Xinjiang also issued a similar announcement on September 6th, stating that all A-grade attractions (at least 32) would be free from September 6th to November 10th.

Qingdao city in Shandong province also has at least 12 scenic spots that will be free of charge starting July 31st. Meanwhile, Xi'an city in Shaanxi province announced that all cultural attractions, including 80% of its museums, will be free to enter starting August 1st.

The Chinese Ministry of Culture and Tourism has issued a directive requiring all tourist attractions to comply with epidemic prevention procedures such as limiting the number of visitors, requiring advance reservations, and restricting peak hours.

Huong Thao