Targeting summer travel demand, China is expanding dedicated trains that combine culture and sightseeing. State media said such 'culture-tourism specials' are supporting summer spending.

The trains treat the rail journey itself as part of the trip, bundling scenic spots, cultural experiences and local specialties along the route. Interior regions and smaller cities with weaker transport links are seen as chief beneficiaries.

The approach draws attention for breaking from air- and high-speed-rail-centered big-city tourism, turning long routes instead into 'experiential travel.' Response is said to be strong among middle-aged and family travelers.

Local governments are courting these routes to raise tourism revenue and employment, hoping related spending on lodging, food and souvenirs will rise alongside.

The travel industry cautions that, as a seasonal product, sustainability and service quality are decisive: to avoid a one-off boom, the appeal and convenience of routes must be steadily refined.

For Sinophone travel-industry workers in Korea, the trend is a reference point, since a recovery in China's interior tourism is one gauge of the direction of Korea-China travel exchange.

Chinese authorities are continuing a range of policies to spur summer tourism and consumption.