Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region in South China experienced a tourism boom during the May Day holiday from May 1 to 4. A total of 15.08 million visitors visited Guangxi, and generated tourism revenues of 11.33 billion yuan ($1.66 billion).

A stunning view of Yangshuo in Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region [Photo by Bian Zhiwu/provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

During this year's May Day holiday, many cities across the region introduced a variety of cultural activities and offered visitors unique insights to experience authentic Guangxi culture. Rural tourism also showed great potential thanks to the high standard services, as well as rich and colorful tourist activities offered, such as fishing, barbecues, and fruit-picking.

In addition, border cities like Fangchenggang and Pingxiang experienced a sharp growth in its tourism industry, and tourism attractions like the Detian cross-border waterfall and the Pingxiang Friendship Gate were hot destinations among visitors. 

The Matzu Cultural Festival kicks off in Pingle county, Guangxi, and attracts more than 160,000 visitors. [Photo by Su Gui/provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Over the past year, Guangxi has witnessed a surge in cross-border tourism, and the number of visits to the region's border cities totaled 53.3 million, increasing 25.8 percent year-on-year, according to the regional government.

A large-scale gourmet competition is held in Nanning on April 22, providing visitors a chance to have a taste of Guangxi flavors. [Photo/ngzb.com.cn]