Tonglu, a small county in east China's Zhejiang Province, has re-emerged as a popular tourist destination, particularly among young people, thanks to its picturesque landscapes, budget-friendly leisure activities, and vibrant local culture.
The county is home to the Hangzhou Equestrian Center, one of the largest and most professional equestrian clubs in China. It was also the venue for the 19th Asian Games' equestrian events, and since then, the center has become a magnet for equestrian enthusiasts. Here, visitors can experience horseback riding - a "noble sport" - at a fraction of the cost in major cities.
"The county is definitely much cheaper than the big cities. For us, one hour for a ride is around 300 yuan. In recent years, the Hangzhou Equestrian Center has increased its efforts to attract the horse industry, which is forming a siphon effect. For more investors, through horses, equestrian and the Hangzhou Equestrian Center, they will know and understand Tonglu, then choose Tonglu County," said Wu Yuefeng, general manager of Hangzhou Fuchun Horse Industry Investment Co., Ltd.
A visitor from Hangzhou shared, "It is convenient for me to learn equestrian here. Practicing equestrian in a small town is a very healing process for me. Compared with big cities, I really enjoy the local customs and its cost performance is relatively high."
Tonglu also benefits from its proximity to the OMG Heartbeat Paradise, drawing visitors in search of excitement and adventure.
"I heard about the Fuchun River, quite close to here, maybe because of the Chinese painting. So, maybe I recommend that," said a young man from Paris.
The Fuchun River, with its historical significance, inspired Huang Gongwang, one of the greatest painters of the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), to create his iconic landscape painting, "Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains," in 1350. While the river has changed over the years, its timeless beauty endures.
As the director of tourism bureau in Tonglu, Fang Jiyu has seen the rapid growth of local tourism in recent months.
"Tonglu was overcrowded during the National Day holiday. Tonglu has been a famous tourist city since ancient times. Since 1979, when Tonglu people opened the Yaolin Fairyland Cave, whether it is the state economy or the private economy, Tonglu people have been unremitting to develop tourist attractions. Many young people are also looking for a sense of difference. As a small county, it can carry some of the industrial benefits of the overflow from the big cities, we could take over," she said.
Street markets in Tonglu are a great way to experience local life. Despite the rain, crowds gathered at the Tong Le Hui Market, enjoying a laid-back atmosphere.
Xia Min, chairman of the Tonglu County Tourism Group, shared insights into the growing appeal of county tourism. He explained that small counties like Tonglu have the advantage of beautiful surroundings, efficient transportation, and affordable accommodation. The area's nostalgic charm and leisurely pace also draw many young people, who love escaping to the suburbs for a day or two to "steal half a day off" and unwind.
Travel booms in east China county
