Photo: Courtesy of organizers

Lianyugang, a city in East China's Jiangsu Province known as the birthplace of the legendary Monkey King, is expecting a growing number of tourists thanks to recent efforts to promote the city's rich cultural heritage and vibrant travel opportunities.  

Zhu Xingbo, a local official, underscored the city's allure as a popular tourist destination.

"Lianyungang, renowned as the birthplace of the beloved Monkey King from the ­classic Chinese tale Journey to the West, captivates visitors with its enchanting blend of history and mythology," said Zhu at a ­promotional event held in ­Beijing on Tuesday.

Lianyungang offers a wide range of cultural experiences and breathtaking vistas for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the essence of Chinese folklore and scenic beauty. 

From the legendary Mount Huaguo, believed to be the abode of the mischievous ­Monkey King, to the enigmatic charm of ancient grottoes dating back millennia, the city captivates visitors with its blend of history and myth.

The natural landscape, characterized by the harmonious convergence of mountains, sea, islands, and harbors, presents an idyllic setting for exploration and relaxation. 

With attractions like the ­renowned Lian Island, adorned with pristine beaches and teeming with avian biodiversity, and the tranquil haven of the Yuntai Mountain Forest Park, travelers are treated to an array of experiences that embody the city's moniker as the "Romantic Capital of the East Sea."

Paola Caballero, cultural counselor of the Embassy of El Salvador in China, noted at the event that Lianyungang is one of China's first batch of open coastal cities and boasts a strategic position as the eastern starting point of the New Eurasian Land Bridge. 

She underscored the city's pivotal role in Jiangsu's Pilot Free Trade Zone and its reputation as one of China's popular tourist cities.

A promotional event for Lianyungang is also set to be held in Almaty, Kazakhstan, in May.