Hechi's Du'an becomes model of cultural tourism development

Du'an Yao autonomous county in Hechi, South China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, has emerged as model of cultural tourism, capitalizing on its unique natural features and rich ethnic culture.

Underground river skylights resemble sapphires inlaid in the earth. [Photo/Hechi Daily]

In the first half of 2025, Du'an welcomed nearly 2.6 million tourists, marking a 17.16 percent increase from the previous year. The total tourism revenue reached over 2.7 billion yuan ($384 million), a 15.48 percent growth year-on-year, establishing the cultural tourism industry as a new engine for the county's high-quality economic development.

Du'an's location advantages fuel development momentum. [Photo/Hechi Daily]

Known as a "Natural Museum of Karst Landforms", Du'an boasts significant ecological advantages, with a forest coverage rate of 70.85 percent. The high concentration of negative oxygen ions makes it a natural wellness destination.

The county's strategic location is transforming its geographic advantages into developmental momentum. The improved transportation network has expanded its tourism brand offerings, including the Chengjiang National Water Conservancy Scenic Area and the Du'an Underground River National Geopark.

Jiudun Skylight earns the title "Everest Underwater" for setting a world record in underwater cave diving. [Photo/Hechi Daily]

As the autonomous county with the largest Bunuo Yao population in China, Du'an's ethnic culture forms the heart and soul of its cultural tourism. This cultural empowerment has heated up the tourism market, with 153 hotels, 136 guesthouses, and 3,972 food service businesses now operating across the county.

Mountains, sunset glow and urban night scenery interweave beautifully. [Photo/Hechi Daily]

From a karst wonderland to a cultural tourism hotspot, Du'an is developing under the philosophy of "mountains and waters are the foundation with culture as the soul." This approach ensures protection while fostering innovation, unveiling a new vision of "beautiful ecology, thriving industries, and prosperous people" in this Yao homeland.