Published on
December 23, 2025
China’s Heyuan has rapidly emerged as a top tourism destination, generating over forty billion yuan in revenue, driven by its exceptional blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in northeastern Guangdong, the city is renowned for its lush landscapes, diverse water systems, and the world’s largest collection of dinosaur egg fossils, making it a unique spot for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers. Heyuan’s success can be attributed to strategic development efforts under China’s 14th Five-Year Plan, which have significantly boosted its tourism sector, enhancing its appeal with expanded attractions and a commitment to sustainable growth. This transformation has positioned Heyuan as a key player in China’s tourism industry, contributing both to local economic growth and the broader regional development of Guangdong.
Heyuan, a scenic city in northeastern Guangdong, has emerged as a leading tourism destination, with its thriving cultural, ecological, and historical landscape drawing visitors from around the world. Under the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025), the city has witnessed remarkable growth in its tourism sector, generating over 42 billion yuan in revenue—a milestone that highlights its transformation into one of China’s most attractive and unique travel hotspots. This significant achievement reflects not only Heyuan’s natural beauty but also its strategic development efforts aimed at boosting tourism and enhancing the local economy.
The city’s charm lies in its lush greenery, impressive water systems, and the deep cultural roots of its Hakka heritage. Heyuan is also home to the world’s largest collection of dinosaur egg fossils, a unique feature that has put it on the map as a must-visit destination for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. The city’s tourism boom is closely tied to the goals outlined in China’s 14th Five-Year Plan, which emphasized the importance of cultural and ecological development. Over the course of this period, the number of cultural, sports, and entertainment businesses skyrocketed from 446 to 1,739—a staggering increase of 389%. This growth aligns perfectly with the city’s tourism surge, as Heyuan welcomed over 43 million tourists during this time, generating a total of over 42 billion yuan in revenue.
A testament to Heyuan’s rising status as a key tourist hub is the growth of its rated tourist attractions. The number of 4A-level sites, China’s second-highest classification, increased from 7 to 10, while the 3A-level attractions surged from 6 to 21. The city also developed nine villages recognized for their unique cultural contributions, adding to its diverse appeal. These attractions, coupled with Heyuan’s strategic efforts to enhance its cultural offerings, have contributed to the city’s rising prominence on the global tourism map.
Heyuan’s tourism boom is deeply connected to its favorable ecological environment. Known for its pristine water quality and clean air, the city is one of the top performers in Guangdong when it comes to environmental sustainability. The local government has made significant strides in forest conservation and ecosystem management. Heyuan leads the province in forest stand optimization and the cultivation of new forests, ensuring that its rapid development does not come at the expense of the environment. With its forest stock volume and coverage rate ranking among the top three in Guangdong, Heyuan is setting a strong example of how economic growth and environmental protection can go hand in hand.
A highlight of the city’s tourism development is Wanlv Lake, which has earned the prestigious 5A-level rating—the highest possible recognition for tourist attractions in China. Wanlv Lake has become a focal point for visitors, drawing tourists with its serene beauty and recreational opportunities. The lake’s annual growth in both visitor numbers and tourism revenue has been impressive, with increases of 14% and 22%, respectively. This success is a reflection of Heyuan’s commitment to enhancing its tourism infrastructure and promoting natural landmarks as major attractions.
In terms of economic impact, the city has made significant strides. Heyuan’s regional GDP reached 140.77 billion yuan in 2024, a 27.7% increase compared to 2020. This economic growth is not only driven by tourism but also by the city’s expanding industrial base, improvements in urban-rural integration, and advancements in public welfare. As the city continues to expand its tourism offerings, it is also investing in infrastructure projects and policies that aim to improve the overall quality of life for its residents and visitors alike.
Heyuan’s tourism sector, with its combination of natural beauty, rich history, and commitment to sustainable growth, has made it a key player in Guangdong’s broader economic development. The city’s success in leveraging its cultural and ecological assets to boost tourism while maintaining environmental balance is a model for other cities to follow. Looking ahead, Heyuan is well-positioned to continue attracting visitors from around the world, with its diverse range of activities, historical sites, and eco-tourism opportunities contributing significantly to both its local economy and Guangdong’s future prosperity.
China’s Heyuan has become a premier tourism destination, generating over forty billion yuan in revenue, thanks to its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This growth is driven by strategic development efforts that have positioned the city as a key player in Guangdong’s tourism industry.
With a strong foundation in place, Heyuan is on track to become a major tourism destination in China, and its ongoing development promises to further elevate its status in the coming years. As more travelers seek out unique and sustainable destinations, Heyuan’s blend of natural wonders, cultural richness, and forward-thinking policies makes it an ideal choice for those looking to explore a city that offers both relaxation and adventure. The city’s tourism industry is not only shaping the local economy but also contributing to Guangdong’s broader efforts to become a global leader in sustainable and inclusive tourism development.
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