Over 400 million people in China are embracing outdoor sports, highlighting the immense potential of the country’s outdoor industry. Inspired by a growing desire to connect with nature, various Chinese provinces are integrating their cultural, sports, and tourism resources to foster new economic growth.
This initiative aligns with a notice issued in April by several government departments, including the National Development and Reform Commission and the General Administration of Sport, encouraging local governments to develop high-quality outdoor sports destinations.
Pengzhou, a city in southwest China’s Sichuan Province, serves as a prime example. Leveraging its unique geographical advantages, Pengzhou is cultivating an all-terrain outdoor sports hub nestled amid lush mountains and clear waters. The city has established a diverse sports matrix encompassing activities like paragliding and zip-lining. It is also accelerating the development of emerging sports such as rafting, rock climbing, and rappelling.
“In the past, our outdoor activities were quite traditional, mainly hiking,” said Huang Xiaolong, a resident of Baoshan Village in Pengzhou. “Now, with the development of outdoor sports, there are many more projects available. As a result, many young villagers are returning home to work.”
Similarly, Jiuquan in northwest China’s Gansu Province is attracting a growing number of outdoor enthusiasts with its distinctive desert scenery. The city has gained popularity following the launch of a series of epic endurance events in the stunning Gobi Desert about two decades ago.
“We are not just organizing an event; we hope to leave something meaningful for this land,” said Qu Xiangdong, founder of the Gobi Challenge event.
The Gobi Challenge events have even inspired a new film project centered on contemporary young entrepreneurs who undergo rigorous training and participate in races to strengthen their bodies and minds in the face of adversity. Involving nearly 100,000 participants from various walks of life, the film also has nearly 200 of them serving as honorary producers.
China boasts abundant outdoor sports resources. By 2030, the country plans to build around 100 outdoor sports destinations that combine ecological value, sports functionality, and economic benefits.
