The old gold mine attracts tourists.

By shifting from a mining industry to an experiential tourism model, localities not only preserve their heritage but also create a new economic "gold mine."

The goal of this strategy is clear: to create new jobs for the former miners and attract domestic tourists eager for unique and different experiences. The most appealing aspect of this model is the hands-on interactive activities. Tourists, from children to adults, have the opportunity to become real gold prospectors under the meticulous guidance of veteran miners. The tiny pieces of gold they find are priceless souvenirs that tourists are allowed to take home.

Tourists experience the process of sifting for gold from the mine. Photo: DW

In addition, the journey of exploring the underground also brings a sense of excitement. Fully equipped with protective gear, visitors will venture deep into the cave and mine system, bearing witness to the arduous labor of generations of miners. Here, historical exhibits on mining techniques throughout different periods not only provide educational knowledge but also help the public better understand the contribution of this industry to community development.

The impact of the mining tourism model on the socio-economic landscape is overwhelmingly positive. Many villages that were once on the verge of becoming "ghost villages" due to the decline of the mining industry have now become vibrant again. Homestays, restaurants, and souvenir shops have sprung up, providing sustainable livelihoods for the communities. Instead of erasing industrial traces, this transformation has helped preserve the cultural heritage of mining, turning outdated infrastructure into valuable assets.

This wave of tourism is taking place at a time when world gold prices are constantly reaching record highs, making Chinese people increasingly interested in this precious metal. It's a combination of a vacation, learning about gold, and satisfying the desire to see gold as a safe investment channel.

In particular, the trend of purchasing small, individual "golden bean" products is becoming increasingly popular among young people, further boosting the appeal of gold-related tourist destinations. The combination of recreational tourism and historical education has created an irresistible attraction for this model. Instead of dry theoretical lessons, visitors can directly witness the complex ore extraction process and the evolution of technology from rudimentary to modern. This helps them understand the true value of labor and the contribution of the mining industry to the nation's prosperity over the decades.

In the context of a volatile economy, young people are gradually shifting from luxury consumption habits to a trend of accumulating real value. Visiting gold mines is not just for "checking in" but also to satisfy the need to learn about the safest asset class currently available.

According to analysts, the economic restructuring strategy being implemented by localities in China, shifting from an industrial past to a service-based future, is a smart example of flexibility. Transforming depleted gold mines into attractive destinations not only helps maintain livelihoods for locals but also makes the dream of experiencing a symbol of wealth more accessible than ever for tourists.

KHANH MINH

Source: https://www.sggp.org.vn/mo-vang-cu-thu-hut-du-khach-post832936.html