Ganlushan Resort Attracts 400,000 Visitors, Blending World Culture with China’s Festive Heritage

This year’s National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday transformed Ganlushan Resort in Wuhan’s Huangpi District into a lively center of cultural celebration. Over the eight-day “Double Festival” period, the resort welcomed nearly 400,000 visitors, merging the beauty of Chinese tradition with the creativity of global art, cuisine, and performance — creating a truly immersive holiday experience that captivated locals and tourists alike.

The celebrations began on October 1 with the launch of the Ganlushan International Street Art Festival, which filled the resort with color, music, and theatrical energy. The highlight was The Grand Magician — China’s first-ever fantasy stilt-walking show — brought to life by the renowned creative team behind the Wuzhen Theatre Festival. Performers portraying enchanting characters like the white-robed wizard Harry, the elegant mage Rachel, and the mysterious Heron moved gracefully among the crowd, captivating audiences with their dazzling costumes and magical storytelling.

“It was absolutely incredible — like watching a live fairytale,” said Zhao Yuyi, a tourist from Jiangxi. “I’ve never seen such a performance up close before!”

Wang Pengcheng, an actor from Chengdu who played the white wizard, said performing in Wuhan always feels special. “The audiences here are so warm and full of energy,” he shared. “Ganlushan’s natural beauty makes every show even more memorable. I can’t wait to explore nearby attractions like the Mulan scenic area after the festival.”

Adding to the excitement was the African Drum Circle, which brought together hundreds of visitors in a “hundred-person drumming party.” The rhythm and energy of the event created an atmosphere of unity and joy. One of the most heartwarming moments came when Martin, an African PhD student in Wuhan, performed I Love You, China, winning enthusiastic applause and emotional cheers from the audience.

Meanwhile, the International Gourmet Market offered visitors a global feast, featuring over 40 specialty food stalls from around the world. “Our Eastern European Kitchen booth has always been a favorite among Wuhan’s young people,” said Zhang Qibiao, one of the vendors. “Ganlushan’s festival gives us the chance to share our dishes and culture with an even larger crowd.”

On the evening of the Mid-Autumn Festival, the resort glowed with festive charm during the Blessed Moon Bunny Lantern Festival. Families and couples walked beneath the moonlight holding glowing rabbit-shaped lanterns, taking photos and exchanging wishes for happiness, health, and prosperity — a perfect reflection of the warmth and togetherness the holiday represents.

Ganlushan’s attractions also recorded impressive turnout numbers. The Ganlushan International Ski Resort, Central China’s largest indoor, competition-grade ski facility, was a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Zorica Stanković, Head Coach of China’s National Snowboard Parallel Giant Slalom Team, praised the venue, calling it “one of the top three indoor ski resorts in China,” and expressed optimism that Wuhan could one day host international snow sports competitions.

All four boutique hotels within Ganlushan were fully booked during the first six days of the holiday. Among the guests were newlyweds Mr. Wang and Ms. Jiang, who moved their wedding date from May to October 3 to celebrate at the newly opened Ganlushan Floral Hotel – Lanxue. Their ceremony — surrounded by mountains, lights, and music — became a highlight of the resort’s holiday season.

Developed by Wuhan Urban Construction Group, Ganlushan Resort is Central China’s first large-scale, ice-and-snow-themed cultural tourism complex. Since its opening, it has welcomed nearly 10 million visitors, offering year-round entertainment, relaxation, and cultural experiences that appeal to travelers of all ages.

According to the Huangpi District Bureau of Culture and Tourism, the district is accelerating efforts to establish a world-class “Mulan Tourism” destination. As one of its key pillars, Ganlushan continues to innovate with new attractions and immersive experiences that bring global attention to Wuhan’s cultural tourism.

The celebrations will continue later this month, as Ganlushan hosts the International Snow Friends Festival from October 24 to 26, featuring interactive snow-themed activities, competitions, and festive parties for winter sports fans. With its mix of artistry, heritage, and global inspiration, Ganlushan Resort is redefining how modern China celebrates — connecting the world through joy, creativity, and tradition.