During the two sessions, the Shanxi delegation to the National People's Congress (NPC) contributed insights and suggestions for the high-quality development of Shanxi's cultural and tourism sector during the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-30), outlining a clear path for cultural and tourism integration.

Hang Kan, an NPC deputy and director of the Yungang Grottoes Research Institute, proposed using new media forms such as games and animation to unlock the potential of cultural heritage. Personalized services for different groups, the development of digital exhibition centers, and the creation of recognizable cultural and tourism symbols were highlighted to enrich product and service offerings.

The Yungang Grottoes in Datong city. [Photo provided to goshanxi.com.cn]

Chang Shuming, an NPC deputy and Party secretary of Jinzhong city, stated that developing the cultural and tourism industry must prioritize protection and inheritance. This involves advancing standardized protection for cultural relics and achieving comprehensive network management for immovable cultural relics. He also advocated for the technology-driven development of "digital architecture" and "digital collections" to rejuvenate Shanxi merchants' culture in the digital era.

Chen Xiaoshuan, an NPC deputy and chairman of the House of the Huangcheng Chancellor Group, witnessed the house's transformation from a tourist attraction into a comprehensive cultural and tourism complex offering new experiences and learning opportunities.

The House of the Huangcheng Chancellor in Jincheng city. [Photo/Shanxi Daily]

While acknowledging progress, Chen also noted challenges in rural cultural tourism development, including inadequate infrastructure and public services. He recommended enhancing rural infrastructure, lowering financing barriers and costs for tourism enterprises, and tapping into local unique resources to create differentiated development momentum, positioning rural areas as key arenas for cultural and tourism integration.