Yangzhou, a historical city in Jiangsu province, shines with its prominent night tours at Slender West Lake, Geyuan Garden, and Heyuan Garden. Recent data reveals that between January and July, these three tours collectively welcomed nearly 430,000 visitor arrivals, generating over 31.6 million yuan ($4.43 million) in ticket revenue.

Topping the ranking is the grand Tang poetry-themed night tour at Slender West Lake, where the allure of the prosperous Tang Dynasty (618-907) is woven into the fabric of the night through innovative light and shadow technology.

Renowned poets such as Li Bai and Du Mu are brought to life, casting familiar Tang poems in light and shadow upon the night sky. With the integration of sound, light, electricity, water, and mist, mesmerizing and visually stunning scenes emerge one after another.

A light show at Slender West Lake in Yangzhou. [Photo/WeChat account: yangzhou-fabu]

"The night tours and performances at Slender West Lake not only feature activities like excursions and flash mobs, which are popular among young people, but also blend unique elements such as intangible cultural heritages, folk traditions, and local cuisine," said university student Chen Yifei from Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, who visited Yangzhou along with several companions from Ningbo and Wenzhou.

As for the Geyuan and Heyuan gardens, their night tours intertwine Yangzhou's picturesque garden landscapes with traditional operas, such as Yangzhou Tanci (storytelling in the local dialect accompanied by stringed instruments), Yangzhou Opera, and Kunqu Opera.

An opera performance at Geyuan Garden in Yangzhou. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]

In response to the burgeoning influx of youthful visitors during the summer vocation, Yangzhou's scenic locales offers innovative nighttime experiences such as night performances, garden soirées, and scripted nocturnal excursions, tailored to the preferences of younger audiences. 

Looking ahead, Yangzhou remains steadfast in its commitment to providing round-the-clock enjoyment, fostering diverse dining and accommodation experiences, and embracing a holistic approach that encompasses both land and water activities, thereby propelling the city's night economy to new heights.