China's space launch facility experiencing growth due to lunar mission and space program.
Visitors from across China are heading to Hainan these days for a unique experience: exploring space. Hainan's city of Wenchang is home to a rocket launch center, which has sparked a new tourism industry catering to those intrigued by everything space-related.
China is hoping to mirror Florida's Cape Canaveral, a renowned launchpad for NASA missions, by developing this sector in Wenchang. To experience the excitement before the May 3 Chang'e-6 probe mission to explore the moon, CNN visited Wenchang on the northeast coast of Hainan.
The Hilton Wenchang embodies the cosmic atmosphere, with celestial-themed corridors and a breakfast buffet featuring a rocket. The hotel shops sell space-themed toys, stuffed animals, and models. Previously, they offered an aerospace-themed afternoon tea with planet-inspired cakes, chocolate planes, astronauts, and a mousse-filled rocket topped with blue and pink sugar crystals.
The space theme prevails across Wenchang. Rocket designs adorn light poles, and there are displays of Chinese spacecraft - ideal for a selfie or family portrait. Even the bottled water in local stores comes in rocket-shaped containers.
The growth of China's space program has intensified interest in all things aeronautic. Hotel representatives confirm that room rates at the Hilton Wenchang quadruple during launches, while guests can witness the lift-off from the hotel's beach. According to Chinese state media, 1.5 million people have visited Wenchang in the last two years, with hotel numbers skyrocketing from five to over fifty.
The country's prestigious space program has instilled a sense of national pride in China. Yan Zehua, a photographer with a stall in Wenchang, expressed his excitement despite attending 24 launches. He sells his work as postcards.
Families, too, find excitement in the space program. A mother said, "This is our first time collecting lunar soil from the far side of the moon, so we're happy to witness it." She also added that she brought her daughter to share the experience together.
Space-related attractions add diversity to Hainan's tourism offerings beyond the beaches. A Hello Kitty-themed resort and park are scheduled to open in 2025. In addition, traveling to Hainan is easier for people worldwide since it's visa-free for citizens of over 50 countries, including the US, Canada, France, New Zealand, Malaysia, and Japan.
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Source: edition.cnn.com
