As county and small-city tours become more popular, many treasure regions in Shandong are attracting visitors by using their unique resources and local character to build strong cultural and tourism brands.

Laoling in Dezhou, Shandong province, has adopted a culture, tourism, and film model to boost its local economy. During the Golden Week holiday, Laoling World Studios welcomed 201,700 visitors, with over 60 percent from outside the province, generating 120 million yuan ($16.9 million) in tourism revenue.

"In the upcoming November, four new short dramas are set to begin filming here," said Li Xu, the marketing director at Laoling World Studios.

Located along the junction of the Grand Canal, Linqing, a county-level city in Shandong, has used its rich Grand Canal culture to develop a distinctive culinary tradition, which attracts tourists.

"The average spending per person is around 50 to 60 yuan, featuring local specialties such as sesame lamb and braised beef," said Wu Lihan. He noted that Linqing's distinctive cuisine has become a major attraction, with some restaurants serving more than 150 tables a day during the National Day holiday.

Tourists enjoy a breakfast featuring local Linqing specialties at a restaurant. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

In Boshan district in Zibo, Shandong province, exquisite and vibrant glass art is attracting a steady flow of visitors.

Xu Yiqun, marketing manager of Yenscheng Tschann (an alternate spelling of Boshan's former name), said university students in Zibo can visit for just 1 yuan, or get a 9.9-yuan ticket that includes a craft experience.

The scenic area is also introducing character player interactions and promoting lodging to attract more young visitors.

"I stayed with my wife in a glass-themed suite for 300 yuan a night and enjoyed Boshan cuisine for 40 to 50 yuan per person — very cost-effective," said Zhang Chuanwei, a tourist from Qingdao.

A craftsman at Yenscheng Tschann demonstrates the process of making glassware. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

A tourist takes photos along Tai'an's Dongping Lake, Shandong's second-largest freshwater lake that combines natural beauty with cultural charm. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]