China’s Two Most Tourist-Trapping Destinations: One a Famous Man-Made Attraction, the Other Fenghuang Ancient Town
In recent years, a thriving industry has emerged within China – the tourism industry. It's undeniable that the tourism industry's rapid development in China is due to several key factors, most importantly, the country's vast territory and the incredibly rich variety of domestic tourist attractions and resources.
Notably, the well-known Hengdian Water Town is a frequent backdrop for many television dramas. As a popular man-made attraction, Hengdian Water Town features largely fabricated or 'knock-off' buildings, making it a decent destination for those interested in ancient architecture and filming locations.
However, the high ticket prices for this attraction are a major source of complaint. Individual attraction tickets already cost 100 yuan, and combination tickets are even more expensive. Moreover, many items within Hengdian Water Town are overpriced, leading many visitors to perceive the attraction as exploitative.
Another infamous tourist destination is Fenghuang Ancient Town. Once a popular 'internet celebrity' destination, Fenghuang Ancient Town has lost some of its appeal. Despite its historical significance as a classical tourist site and ancient town, the area has suffered from considerable commercialization. Most frustratingly, residents within the town are required to pay entry fees to access various areas, which many find outrageous.
