The 2025 "Shenwu Grand Canyon" international cultural tourism promotion recently launched at the "Dream of Wudang" complex in Wudang Mountain Special Zone, Shiyan City, Hubei Province. Co-hosted by the World Tourism Cities Federation (WTCF), Hubei Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, and Shiyan Municipal People's Government, with support from the China Tourism Association, this event unveiled China's premier ecological-cultural corridor to global audiences.

Mike Christensen, Secretary-General of the Danish Chinese Tourism & Cultural Exchange Association, representing European tour operators, presented insights on the "Shenwu Grand Canyon" route linking Shennongjia, Wudang Mountain, Yangtze Three Gorges, and Enshi Grand Canyon. He identified three drivers fueling historic China-Europe tourism growth: policy incentives, immersive experiences, and tech-enabled convenience. Christensen highlighted the route's strategic value as Europe's "Oriental Mystique" destination, offering immersive Tai Chi philosophy and contrasting European landscapes. To scale European market penetration, he proposed establishing an innovation lab, creating digital marketing ecosystems, and implementing talent development programs.

The Shenwu Grand Canyon Experience

This 386-km ecological corridor connects:

9 National 5A-level scenic areas

7 UNESCO natural/cultural landmarks

4 signature experiences:

• Wudang Mountain's Taoist wonders

• Shennongjia's primeval wilderness

• Three Gorges' engineering marvels

• Enshi's Tujia ethnic heritage

Each segment reveals Hubei's cultural essence and China's harmony-between-humanity-and-nature philosophy. The route exemplifies sustainable tourism development through its preservation of ecological integrity and cultural authenticity.

(Danish Chinese Tourism & Cultural Exchange Association is a member of IMTA)

Editor Ⅰ: Zhang Wenwen

Editor Ⅱ: Bao Gang

Editor Ⅲ: Liu Guosong