More than just scenery: Yunnan emerges as global sports tourism powerhouse

Runners compete in the SCO Kunming Marathon

2023 on Dec. 31. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

From ambitious development plans to world-class facilities, Yunnan is strategically positioning itself as a "high-altitude training ground, outdoor sports paradise and four-season sports park." This initiative is attracting both domestic and international visitors with its unique blend of natural beauty and sporting excitement.

As the SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organization) Kunming Marathon 2023 unfolded along Yunnan's Dianchi Lake on Dec. 31, about 15,000 participants embraced the year's end with spirited strides. This set the tone for a festive period brimming with athletic energy. On the same day, the China-Myanmar Ruili-Muse Cross-Border Marathon strengthened ties between the two nations and demonstrated Yunnan's ability to connect diverse cultures through sport.

In addition to the marathon, Yunnan hosted a variety of sporting activities throughout the festive period. In Wenshan, Kaiyuan and Longchuan, locals welcomed the New Year by walking or running through their cities, marking a fresh start for the year ahead.

In the breathtaking Nujiang Grand Canyon, athletes from around the globe navigated the challenging rapids by kayak, forging deep bonds while immersing themselves in the awe-inspiring beauty of the natural landscape.

And in Kunming, the inaugural Winter Games of Yunnan Province painted the southern metropolis with a touch of icy magic. The event proved that even in warmer regions of China, winter sports can still thrill.

Yunnan's burgeoning sports scene is no coincidence. The province boasts unique geographical advantages: a low-latitude plateau averaging 2,000 meters in elevation, with its highest point reaching a staggering 6,740 meters. This results in a diverse landscape, including snow-capped mountains, verdant valleys, lush rainforests, and vast grasslands, creating perfect conditions for a wide array of sports.

But Yunnan's ambition extends beyond natural beauty. The province has carved a niche as a premier destination for sports tourism, drawing both domestic and international visitors with its expanding lineup of events and top-tier facilities. Supported by a domestic market of 1.4 billion people and a strong international market of 685 million people in Southeast Asia, Yunnan is poised to become a global sports tourism hub.

Young people play ice hockey. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

The province's dedication is evident in its "high-altitude training ground, outdoor sports paradise, and four-season sports park" vision. The provincial government has implemented a series of initiatives, including the "Yunnan Province Outdoor Sports Industry Development Three-Year Action Plan" and the "Yunnan Province Sports and Tourism High-Quality Integrated Development Three-Year Action Plan (2023-2025)," to further bolster its sports infrastructure and service system.

With over 6,200 kilometers of dedicated fitness trails, hiking paths and cycling routes, coupled with a growing network of outdoor sports camps and facilities, Yunnan is rapidly becoming a year-round haven for sports enthusiasts. The province is constantly enhancing its event organization, information services, professional guidance and emergency response capabilities, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Beyond marathons and races, Yunnan offers a wide range of activities for all fitness levels. The province's stunning landscapes provide an idyllic backdrop for all kinds of adventures, ensuring memorable experiences that extend beyond the thrill of competition.