In 2024, Xi'an advanced toward its goal of becoming a world-renowned cultural city by preserving its rich heritage and promoting cultural innovation.

With over 306 million visitors and total tourism revenue of 376 billion yuan ($51.73 billion) – up 10.3 percent and 12.3 percent year-on-year, respectively – Xi'an maintained its position among China's top cultural tourism destinations.

The Grand Tang Mall in Xi'an is brightly lit. [Photo/Xi'an Daily]

Innovation played a key role in boosting cultural tourism. The deep integration of technology and culture brought history to life with immersive digital experiences like Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty II.

The city also saw a surge in cultural performances, with new shows like The Great Qin and The Wordless Stone Stele making their debut. Established performances such as The Song of Everlasting Sorrow and Resurrected Legion gained international recognition, earning spots on the Guinness China Charm List. Additionally, the acrobatic ballet Swan Lake premiered in Oman, marking a milestone in cultural exports.

A large-scale performance of The Song of Everlasting Sorrow is staged at Huaqing Palace in Xi'an. [Photo/Xi'an Daily]

Xi'an continued to invest heavily in cultural infrastructure, signing agreements on 85 cultural tourism projects worth 34.5 billion yuan and allocating over 50 percent of its planned investment in 16 key projects. Civic projects like the Chang'an Academy Library and the Xi'an Youth Activity Center were completed and put into operation.

On the international stage, Xi'an hosted high-profile events such as the 14th China-US Tourism Leadership Summit and the 11th Silk Road International Film Festival. The city also gained national recognition, with rural tourism destinations like Fucha town selected as top-tier attractions. Xi'an's global media influence climbed to 5th among Chinese cities.

The 11th Silk Road International Film Festival takes place in Xi'an on Sept 21-25, 2024. [Photo/Xi'an Daily]

Moreover, smart tourism services were strengthened through digital monitoring, offering an improved visitor experience and ensuring Xi'an remains a top-tier cultural destination.