Source: CCTV.com

08-05-2008 14:09

Special Report:   Post-quake reconstruction

Reconstruction is now well in progress in Sichuan Province and -- less than three months after the deadly Wenchuan earthquake -- tourists are returning. Sichuan is one of China's most popular tourist areas -- recognized for its exotic scenery and the colourful diversity of cultures.

A German tour group arrived in the capital, Chengdu, Monday. It's the largest tour group to arrive since the May 12th earthquake. But these travellers were drawn to visit the internationally renowned vistas, sample the distinctive Sichuan cuisine and to enjoy the leisurely pace in Chengdu.

Here, in what is widely regarded as the home town of the giant panda, the German travellers were able to enjoy close contact with the delightful animals that have become an iconic symbol of China.

The famous Jiuzhaigou scenic spot has been closed to tour groups since the quake. Individuals have continued to visit the area but in greatly reduced numbers. Local authorities say Jiuzhaigou welcomed over 27 thousand tourists between May 13th and July 31st. That's a drop of 760 thousand over the same period last year.

Dai, Chuan, Manager of Sichuan Jiuzhaigou Huanglong Airport "Flights to the scenic area were reduced to just one after the earthquake. That continued through June. Now we have ten flights and the occupancy rate has climbed to between 70 and 80 percent. About two thousand visitors come here every day. 80 percent of them are tourists."

The provincial tourism authority says Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong scenic areas will re-open to group tours, from Wednesday.

 

Editor:Yang Jie