Ganlushan Resort Welcomes 400,000 Visitors, Showcasing a Global Twist on Chinese Holiday Traditions
During this year’s National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday, Ganlushan Resort in Wuhan’s Huangpi District became one of China’s most vibrant celebration hubs. Over the eight-day break, the resort welcomed an impressive 400,000 visitors, blending modern artistry, international culture, and traditional Chinese customs into a dazzling display that redefined the festive experience for locals and tourists alike.
The celebrations began on October 1 with the launch of the Ganlushan International Street Art Festival, where creativity met performance on every corner. The standout act, The Grand Magician — the nation’s first stilt-walking fantasy show — was produced by the original creative team behind the renowned Wuzhen Theatre Festival. Dressed as characters from a magical realm, including the white-robed wizard Harry, elven mage Rachel, and the dark-cloaked Heron, performers mesmerized audiences with their theatrical storytelling and towering stilt movements.
“This was my first time seeing a stilt show up close — it was truly unforgettable!” said Zhao Yuyi, a visitor from Jiangxi Province.
Wang Pengcheng, a Chengdu-based performer who played the white wizard, praised Wuhan’s spirited audience. “The energy here is always inspiring,” he shared. “Ganlushan’s scenic beauty makes it even more special — it’s the kind of place that invites you to explore every corner, especially nearby attractions like the Mulan area.”
The festival’s African Drum Circle was another major highlight, uniting hundreds of participants in a rhythmic celebration of sound. The lively “hundred-person drumming party” allowed visitors to experience African beats firsthand. Martin, an African PhD student in Wuhan, delighted the crowd by performing I Love You, China on the drums, earning thunderous applause and smiles from the audience.
Running alongside the performances was the International Gourmet Market, offering a taste of the world through more than 40 specialty food stalls. From European delicacies to Asian street food, it became a hotspot for food lovers. “We’ve always been popular with young people in Wuhan,” said Zhang Qibiao, owner of the Eastern European Kitchen booth. “Being part of Ganlushan’s festival helps us connect with even more visitors and share our flavors with a wider audience.”
The magic continued on the Mid-Autumn Festival night, when families and couples gathered for the Blessed Moon Bunny Lantern Festival. Under the glowing moon, guests carried adorable rabbit-shaped lanterns, took photos, and exchanged wishes of happiness and prosperity — a heartwarming blend of nostalgia and joy.
Beyond the festive charm, Ganlushan’s cultural and entertainment zones saw a massive surge in activity. The Ganlushan International Ski Resort, Central China’s largest indoor, competition-grade ski facility, became a favorite among sports lovers. Zorica Stanković, Head Coach of China’s National Snowboard Parallel Giant Slalom Team, commended the world-class venue, calling it “one of the finest indoor ski resorts in the country — definitely among the top three.” She also expressed hopes that Wuhan could one day host international winter sports events.
Ganlushan’s four boutique hotels reported full bookings for the first six days of the holiday. Among the guests were newlyweds Mr. Wang and Ms. Jiang, who moved their wedding from May to October 3 to celebrate at the newly opened Ganlushan Floral Hotel – Lanxue, creating lifelong memories with their loved ones in a scenic mountain setting.
Developed by Wuhan Urban Construction Group, Ganlushan Resort stands as Central China’s first large-scale, ice-and-snow-themed cultural tourism complex. Since opening, it has welcomed nearly 10 million visitors, evolving into an all-season, multi-format destination for travelers of all ages.
According to the Huangpi District Bureau of Culture and Tourism, the district is accelerating efforts to develop a world-class “Mulan Tourism” destination. As one of its three main pillars, Ganlushan Resort continues to introduce new attractions and creative events, bringing the “Mulan Tourism” brand to a global audience.
And the celebrations are far from over — from October 24 to 26, the resort will host the International Snow Friends Festival, featuring interactive snow events, competitions, and themed parties designed for winter sports fans. With creativity, culture, and community at its core, Ganlushan continues to shine as a symbol of Wuhan’s evolving holiday tourism experience.
