At 5:00 PM Japan Time on September 19th, during the 4th Asia-Pacific Geoparks Network Symposium held at the San’in Kaigan Global Geopark in Japan, the Zhijindong National Geopark was officially approved by UNESCO to join the Global Geoparks Network, becoming a new member of the global geopark family. With this, Zhijindong has stepped onto the world stage, adding another world-class brand to Guizhou, known as the “Province of Parks,” while also filling the gap of Guizhou having no global geopark.
——Zhijindong Steps onto the World Stage, Guizhou Achieves Its First Global Geopark
Focusing on the unique science outreach advantages of a geopark, in recent years, Zhijindong Cave has also launched various science education activities in enterprises, villages, schools, and communities, continuously expanding the reach of its interpretive programs. These initiatives have not only attracted more visitors to the scenic area but have also drawn in a large number of volunteers. On the very day that Zhijindong Cave was announced as a UNESCO Global Geopark, a hundred university students were participating in a science journey through the cave. While walking, observing, listening, and learning, the students also wore science education T-shirts and “Protect the Earth, Start with Me” sashes, voluntarily serving at the scenic area service zone and in the ancient city of Zhijindong. They invited fellow tourists and local citizens to sign petitions advocating for civilized tourism and heritage protection. The enthusiasm of the students also inspired other visitors, and a massive signature wall for tens of thousands of people quickly filled up with names and messages of goodwill.
The steady stream of visitors has brought tremendous business opportunities to Zhijindong Cave, even radiating to surrounding areas. Today, leveraging the booming popularity of Zhijindong Cave, nearby villages have gradually developed rural tourism with local characteristics, as well as tourism merchandise and guesthouses.
Riding the Momentum: Zhijindong Tourism Poised for a Glorious “Metamorphosis”
During interviews, reporters learned that with its approval into the Global Geoparks Network, both Zhijindong County and Zhijindong Cave will further capitalize on this opportunity. Building on the brand image of “A Blessed Land of Caves and Beauty – Magnificent Zhijindong,” they aim to promote the development of a broader Zhijindong cultural tourism industry led by Zhijindong Cave. Efforts will focus on transitioning from refined management to standardized management, from single-type tourist attractions to comprehensive tourism destinations, from simple sightseeing spots to science education parks, and from an integrated enterprise-administration management system to a new model of separation between operation and management. This will reshape the tourism image of Zhijindong and Zhijindong Cave. While continuously improving itself, it seeks to set a benchmark for geoparks in Guizhou, contribute to the vibrant tourism industry of Colorful Guizhou, and achieve new glories.