The State Council has officially designated Meishan, a city in southwestern Sichuan Province, as a national historical and cultural city. According to a notice released on March 19, 2026, the recognition highlights Meishan’s profound cultural heritage, well-preserved traditional features, and distinct regional identity. Known historically as Meizhou, the city is celebrated as the birthplace of Su Shi, a legendary poet of the Song Dynasty (960-1279), making it a significant destination for inbound tourism focused on Chinese literary history.
The approval requires local authorities to strengthen the protection and utilization of cultural relics while exploring the historical value of ancient Meizhou’s layout. This designation is expected to further boost inbound tourism by attracting international visitors interested in authentic traditional Chinese culture and heritage sites. By integrating historical preservation with modern tourism development, Meishan aims to showcase its unique charm to a global audience through specialized cultural tours and educational programs.
The city’s new status reinforces its role as a vital cultural landmark, inviting travelers to explore the legacy of Su Shi and the rich traditions of Sichuan. As part of its development plan, Meishan will enhance visitor facilities and multi-language services to better accommodate global guests. This strategic move aligns with China’s broader efforts to promote its historical resources as key drivers for the sustained growth of the international travel market.