Chongqing—In the hills of Chongqing’s Beibei District, a new kind of tourism is taking root—one that brings pets, their owners, and rural communities together. Wangzaixing Pet Tourism Park has become a popular destination for animal lovers and a symbol of how the “pet economy” can boost countryside tourism in Chongqing.

Chongqing Wangzaixing Pet Tourism Park is located atop the remote mountains of Beibei District, far from the urban hustle and bustle. (Photo provided by the interviewee)

From Personal Need to Pet Paradise

Founder Li Linjun, whose journey began with a simple need years ago, couldn't find a suitable boarding place for his dog, so he started his own business. Over a decade ago, he launched his first pet park in Chengdu and chose Beibei in Chongqing for his next project, drawn by its ideal environment for dogs.

The Chongqing park is much larger, spanning over 600 mu (about 100 acres), and now offers camping, boutique lodges, and diverse dining options alongside top-tier pet care. Construction went smoothly, thanks to strong local government support, with the main challenge being the remote location and finding enough workers.

Dogs playing at Wangzaixing Pet Tourism Park in Chongqing. (Photo provided by the interviewee)

The dog boarding area at Wangzaixing Pet Tourism Park in Chongqing. (Photo provided by the interviewee)

The biggest test, however, has been personal. For years, Li and his wife have managed parks in different cities, often apart from their family. "Family entrepreneurship is hard to balance with caring for children," he admits. But their shared love for dogs and commitment to animal welfare keep them going. "Every time I see the dogs, I feel happy again," says Li.

A Resort Experience for Pets and Owners

Wangzaixing Park goes far beyond traditional pet boarding. To meet the diverse needs of both pets and their owners, Li Linjun and his team have created a wide range of activities—outdoor adventures, interactive experiences, and livestreams. Daily livestreams of dogs' outdoor activities allow owners to check in on their pets, building trust and transparency. "The core value of this ‘accompaniment-style' foster care is simple—making the dogs happy and giving owners peace of mind," says Li.

The park offers camping, afternoon tea, barbecue, and other leisure experiences to ensure that pet owners enjoy their stay as much as their pets. This resort-like setting transforms a routine pet drop-off into a relaxing getaway for the whole family, where people and their pets can enjoy rural life together.

Visitors camping at Wangzaixing Pet Tourism Park in Chongqing. (Photo provided by the interviewee)

The innovative approach and real-time livestreaming have received enthusiastic feedback, reassuring owners about their pets' well-being and helping new customers understand the park's attentive care.

Pet Parks Fueling Rural Vitality

The opening of Wangzaixing Pet Tourism Park has brought new visitors and opportunities to Beibei District's Tianfu Town. "We've definitely increased local foot traffic, and at times hired many villagers for events and services," Li notes. The park is now considered a "2.0 version" that integrates pet care with rural tourism, helping drive visitor spending and local employment.

Beyond the park itself, nearby farmers have adapted, offering "pet-friendly" country cuisine and agricultural products. What was once idle land and sparse farmland has become a hotspot for pet owners and rural tourism.

Dogs and their owners participate in activities organized by Wangzaixing Pet Tourism Park in Chongqing. (Photo provided by the interviewee)

After more than a decade in the business, Li is bullish on the future of China’s "pet economy." He sees it as one of the most promising sectors, especially as families become smaller and pets increasingly fill emotional needs. "Many owners and their dogs have become lifelong friends. That's been my biggest reward," he reflects. "My motivation has always been my love for dogs and the desire to improve their welfare, step by step."