Norway’s fjords have been named “the best unpolluted travel destination in the world,” with their extraordinary natural landscapes seemingly crafted by nature’s finest artistry. A diversity of stunning scenery, majestic and awe-inspiring fjords, and vibrant cityscapes make this enchanting kingdom attract a large number of domestic and international tourists every year.
Growing number of Chinese tourists, Norway’s fjords gain increasing popularity
In recent years, Norway has attracted more and more Chinese tourists with its unique natural scenery, and Norwegian tourism data shows impressive results. From January to May 2017 alone, the number of overnight stays by Chinese tourists in Norway increased by 70% compared to the same period last year. Mr. Wang Yu, Chief Representative of the Nordic Tourism Board for Greater China, stated that 2017 is a year full of opportunities for Norway, with expectations of further growth in tourist arrivals.
The magnificent Norwegian fjords are breathtaking all year round. Bergen is the gateway city to the fjords, where wandering through its ancient streets is both intriguing; the Sognefjord is the longest and deepest fjord in Norway, with captivating beauty that allows visitors to immerse themselves in its splendor, and its branch, the Nærøyfjord, has repeatedly been ranked among the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world; the Hardangerfjord is rich in produce, offering a chance to experience both natural and cultural essence; the Geirangerfjord is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, famous for its spectacular waterfalls along the route; the Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue) and Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) in the Lysefjord are popular among outdoor enthusiasts. Norway’s distinctive culinary culture is also highly favored by tourists. Delicious traditional dishes such as fresh salmon and cod, king crab, and goat cheese tempt the taste buds of every visitor.
Among the four major fjords, the Sognefjord is the most representative fjord in Norway, as well as the longest and deepest. Ten thousand years ago, a glacial valley flooded by seawater formed steep, towering cliffs on both sides, like natural barriers, gently taming the waters connected to the vast Atlantic Ocean into a serene expanse, cradling it undisturbed into a mirror. All the clouds in the sky and the scenery on both banks are reflected on the water surface, resembling a fairy-tale world, even more breathtaking than a paradise on earth.
It is this captivating Norway that, while receiving high praise from visitors, also makes more and more Chinese tourists eager to come and experience its tranquility and magnificence firsthand.
Norway Tourism Board launches the King of Fjords Competition
Now, to satisfy tourists’ curiosity about the fjords and to give more people the opportunity to experience and appreciate Norway’s fascinating natural scenery and fjord beauty that can be enjoyed all year round, the Norway King of Fjords Competition, organized by the Norwegian Tourism Board, will officially kick off on August 15. This event is one of the most grand-scale activities of the Norwegian Tourism Board this year.
From August 15 to September 24, anyone who reposts the Norway King of Fjords invitation letter on the official Weibo platform of the Nordic Tourism Board will have the chance to participate in the Norway King of Fjords Competition. Specific competition details can be found on the official Weibo and WeChat platforms of the Norwegian Tourism Board/Nordic Tourism Board.
Four fjords explored in depth—see who will ultimately reign as Fjord King
The final of the Norway King of Fjords Competition will select 2 contestants on September 25, who will then head to Bergen, the fjord gateway city of Norway, in early October for the ultimate showdown. Bergen is the most charming port city on Norway’s west coast, where undulating mountains and colorful urban life intertwine against the blue of the sea and sky, exuding a bright and delicate harbor atmosphere. Each contestant can stroll through its historic alleys and feel the centuries of history that Bergen has witnessed.
While traveling through Norway’s four major fjords, you can take the Flåm Railway in the Sognefjord, admire the wonders of nature from the Flydalsjuvet viewpoint (Geiranger Stone) in the Geirangerfjord, take a boat to enjoy the spectacular waterfall cascading down the mountain ridge, or challenge yourself by standing on the Kjeragbolten (one of the world’s most dangerous rocks) or the Preikestolen platform perched atop the cliffs of the Lysefjord.
In these four challenging and fun fjords, the competition to crown the Fjord King is sure to be thrilling. Who will rise to fame and claim the title of Fjord King? Let’s wait and see.