China’s Industrial Tourism Boom: Discover High-Speed Trains in Changchun, Smart Factories in Beijing, and Cultural Hubs in Foshan and Yunnan, Updates for Tourists

Published on November 1, 2025

In recent years, China has seen a significant rise in industrial tourism, where visitors explore the country’s cutting-edge factories, heritage sites, and interactive manufacturing experiences. This new travel trend, which appeals particularly to younger generations, allows tourists to dive into the world of high-tech production and scientific innovation. Factories, once purely functional production sites, are now becoming sought-after destinations for hands-on learning and immersive encounters. From visiting smart factories in Beijing to exploring heritage sites in Foshan and Baoshan, the scope of industrial tourism is expanding rapidly, offering unique and engaging travel experiences.

The Growing Popularity of Industrial Tourism in China

In a remarkable shift, China’s factories are attracting tourists eager to learn about the high-tech processes behind some of the country’s most advanced products. For instance, the Xiaomi automobile factory in Beijing saw more than 150,000 applications to visit between April 2024 and mid-2025. This surge in interest highlights how factories that were once seen as strictly industrial spaces are now becoming destinations for education and leisure. Many of these tours focus on smart factories and heavy industries, where visitors get an inside look at the processes behind high-speed trains, cutting-edge electronics, and more.

Educational and Interactive Experiences

One of the key factors driving this trend is the educational value offered by industrial tourism. Young people, in particular, are drawn to these hands-on experiences that complement their academic studies. During a summer vacation, over 1,000 students visited the manufacturing base of CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles in northeast China, where they observed the intricate steps of building high-speed trains. Such experiences allow students to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, making abstract concepts come to life in front of their eyes.

Beyond just watching the manufacturing process, tourists also have the opportunity to engage in interactive activities. A dairy factory in Nanjing allows children to wear lab coats, milk cows, and package products, creating an educational experience that also encourages them to think about science and technology in everyday life. Similarly, visitors at a beer museum in Qingdao can participate in theatrical tours, learn about the brewing process, and taste traditional products made with heritage yeast.

Industrial Tourism as a Blend of Technology, Culture, and Lifestyle

In addition to offering a deep dive into manufacturing, industrial tourism is also evolving to blend technology with local culture and lifestyle. In Baoshan, Yunnan province, coffee lovers can experience the entire journey of coffee, from picking beans to watching the roasting process, offering a full-circle experience of how their favorite beverage is created. This fusion of industrial practices with local flavors is exactly what younger generations are seeking in their travels.

The shift in the tourism landscape has prompted the development of co-creative tourism experiences, which merge manufacturing with elements of lifestyle and culture. Visitors are no longer just observers; they are part of the creative process, whether it’s crafting pottery in Foshan or taking part in hands-on exhibits at a high-tech factory. This evolution ensures that visitors leave not only with a deeper understanding of industry but also with a new appreciation for the role these industries play in daily life.

Breathing New Life into Historic Industrial Sites

Former industrial zones in China, once abandoned after the shutdown of manufacturing plants, are being revived and transformed into cultural hubs. For example, in Huaibei (Anhui province), a decommissioned power plant has been turned into a mechanical park, where visitors can interact with a large, mythical-inspired “Leilei” sculpture. This immersive experience combines industrial history with modern technology to offer a glimpse into the past while looking forward to the future.

Similarly, in Foshan (Guangdong province), the raw material workshop of a 20th-century ceramics factory has been repurposed into an artistic space where visitors can witness pottery exhibitions, talent incubators, and artistic workshops. These revitalized spaces not only preserve the history of industrial operations but also serve as platforms for cultural creativity and innovation.

Key Developments in Industrial Tourism

As of 2024, China had approved 122 national industrial tourism demonstration bases and 232 national industrial heritage sites, including 10 national industrial heritage tourism bases. These sites range from factory tours and museum exhibitions to heritage site explorations, all providing opportunities to learn about China’s industrial evolution. This expansion reflects the growing importance of industrial tourism in the country’s overall tourism strategy.

Experts suggest that for industrial tourism to continue to thrive, it must move beyond simply offering factory tours. Future growth in this sector will depend on creating emotionally engaging and memorable experiences that resonate with visitors. This focus on emotional connection will ensure that industrial tourism becomes a lasting and impactful part of China’s tourism industry.

What Travelers Can Expect from Industrial Tourism

For travelers interested in industrial tourism in China, there are plenty of options to explore. Here’s what to expect:

• Educational Experiences: Tours often feature in-depth explanations of manufacturing processes, scientific principles, and technology innovations.
• Hands-on Activities: Many factories offer interactive experiences, like assembling products, testing equipment, or participating in the creation of goods.
• Cultural Insights: Many sites integrate local culture and history, blending industrial history with artistic exhibits and creative workshops.
• Family-friendly Activities: Whether it’s milking cows at a dairy farm or brewing beer, there are plenty of engaging activities for children and families.

Travel Tips for Industrial Tourism in China

• Plan ahead: Some factories and heritage sites require advance booking, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Check for age restrictions: Certain industrial tours may have age limitations, especially for hands-on activities like working with machinery.
• Dress appropriately: Many factory tours require visitors to wear specific attire for safety, such as lab coats or sturdy shoes.