During this year’s peak summer travel period, many of China’s favorite tourist destinations were awash with eager travelers, leading to a pressing demand for tickets and entry. To address this influx and enrich the tourist experience, numerous cultural sites across the country have innovatively extended their operational hours, allowing tourists the unique opportunity to embark on nighttime adventures.
In the heart of Shaanxi, the renowned Shaanxi History Museum, for example, has now opened its doors to the public till 8 pm every Sunday since the middle of July. Not too far away in Beijing, the illustrious National Museum of Classic Books too, has extended its timings till 8 pm from July 18 to August 27. These extended hours aren’t just about accommodating more visitors; they also introduce a variety of nighttime activities, giving travelers a taste of authentic Chinese traditions.
Historically, nighttime was a special occasion in ancient China. The veil of the night bore witness to myriad activities, from the recitation of poems and moonlit soirees to invigorating conversations over tea. Reflecting on this age-old tradition, Wang Bin, the curator of the Tang West Market Museum in Xi’an, notes that the institution’s offerings seamlessly blend these cultural elements. Located at the original West Market site, symbolic of the iconic Silk Road, the museum crafts experiences where young ones can delve deep into the nocturnal practices of ancient Chinese civilizations. Such initiatives have garnered widespread appreciation, striking a chord with both children and their parents.
Highlighting the advantages of nighttime excursions, Cui Yan, a distinguished professor at Xi’an University of Science and Technology specializing in cultural tourism research, points out the climatic comfort. The scorching heat of the summer day makes way for cooler nights, making evening explorations a preferred choice for many. This shift to night-time tourism isn’t just a seasonal adjustment; it caters to both locals and tourists, offering them a fresh perspective on enjoying their surroundings.
Responding to the ever-growing demand for nocturnal tourism, various regions in China have been diligently fostering a robust night culture. The evolution is evident in the lively night fairs and captivating performances that have become the hallmarks of many cities. As late as 10:30 pm, a vibrant energy continues to pulse through China’s urban hubs, evident in the packed subways and bustling night markets filled with eager diners.
As Professor Cui Yan aptly observes, this drift towards nighttime cultural activities is slowly reshaping the traditional tourism blueprint. It’s challenging the age-old norm of ‘daytime exploration followed by nighttime rest’, bringing a renewed vigor to the way people experience nightlife, embedding it with rich cultural tapestries and experiences.
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