World-class concerts and operas set to enhance Shanghai’s attractiveness as an international tourist destination

Shanghai is enhancing its status as a must-visit international destination by hosting world-class artistic events. These events are designed to draw in fans of opera and music from around the globe. The city's cultural tourism strategy includes showcasing sophisticated performances in opera, drama, orchestral, and dance. Yang Jialu, a leader at the Shanghai International Arts Festival, believes that these high-quality events are key to boosting Shanghai's tourism. nnThe Shanghai International Arts Festival has become a significant cultural event since its inception in 1999. This year, it featured 72 productions, including 12 international premieres, with around 1,000 performances that captivated an audience of six million. The festival's success is a testament to Shanghai's growing popularity in classical music, especially among the youth. Renowned artists like Anna Netrebko have performed to sold-out audiences, indicating a positive trend in cultural tourism. nnDespite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Shanghai's classical art scene is recovering. In the first half of 2023, the city hosted 22,000 shows with 12 million attendees, a significant increase from pre-pandemic levels. The city's efforts to revive tourism include launching a new cruise ship and revitalizing Suzhou Creek with a cruise service. These initiatives are part of Shanghai's broader plan to stimulate economic growth through cultural and tourism integration.