Chongqing - Since February, scenic spots across Chongqing have seen an 81.8% year-on-year increase in sales revenue, fueled by a surge in spring flower tourism, according to data from the Chongqing Municipal Taxation Bureau.
The vibrant spring landscape has drawn travelers eager to enjoy the season’s blossoms, giving a significant boost to the city’s cultural and tourism sectors. Value-added tax (VAT) invoice data shows that from February onward, revenue from leisure sightseeing activities rose 31.5% year-on-year, while travel agencies reported a 14.3% increase, reflecting the growing economic impact of flower-themed tourism.
At the Maoshan Sakura Expo Park in Jiangjin District’s Caijia Town, 7000 mu (approximately 467 hectares) of cherry blossoms have been drawing crowds since the park opened in February. A representative from the park said it has received nearly 150,000 visitors, with sales revenue growing by 10% compared with the same period last year.
During the Cherry Blossom Festival at Maoshan Sakura Expo Park, tax officials visited the scenic area to promote tax policies. (Photo/Chongqing Municipal Taxation Bureau)
Meanwhile, the Tongnan Chongkan Flower Sea Scenic Area, which opened on February 25, now welcomes over 40,000 visitors a day. The site has upgraded its attractions - adding a pink floating bridge, a sightseeing train, and boat tours - to offer a multi-dimensional experience that combines sightseeing on land, water, and from the air.
More than blossoms: integrated experiences extend the value chain
Chongqing’s flower economy is extending beyond flower viewing, integrating scenery with culture, creative products, and agriculture. The model has helped drive growth in hospitality, dining, and local retail.
At Meixin Wine Town in Fuling District, pear blossoms at the Liyuan Reservoir have become a major draw. The area’s cable car and Chongqing’s highest Ferris wheel offer aerial views of the blossoms, and the surge in visitors has boosted revenue for local restaurants, homestays, and rural businesses.
Meixin Wine Town Scenic Area with pear blossoms in full bloom. (Photo/Meixin Wine Town Scenic Area)
In Dazu District, Shiwanzhen’s Colorful Farmland has introduced a hot pot dining experience set among the flowers, blending agritourism with gastronomy. The town has seen a 20.8% year-on-year increase in leisure sightseeing revenue, with catering industry sales rising 24.8%.
Tax services support small businesses amid tourism boom
To support the growth of the flower economy, local tax authorities have been reaching out to scenic spots, tourism operators, and agritourism businesses. They are providing guidance on tax policies, invoicing procedures, and compliance to help mitigate risks and ensure smooth operations.
Tongnan Chongkan Flower Sea Scenic Area, where visitors enjoy the blossoms. (Photo/Chongqing Municipal Taxation Bureau)
A related “Invoice Lottery” campaign has also spurred demand for invoices from food and lodging businesses. Tax officials have been assisting merchants in applying for higher invoice caps through the e-tax platform and in adapting to digital invoicing.
According to tax data, in the first month of the campaign, sales revenue in the eight participating sectors - including retail, dining, and tourism - rose 4.8% year-on-year. Across all industries in Chongqing, more than 38 million invoices were issued, a 46.6% increase year-on-year and a 17% rise from the previous month.