Travellers hoof it in China as horseback tourism makes strides
As Year of the Horse approaches, tourism operators are saddling up to capture enthusiasm for equestrian activity
Hong Kong-based entrepreneur Chan Shan Shan is a frequent traveller to mainland China. But rather than the usual activities or sightseeing spots that fill the days of most tourists, Chan has something else on her itinerary: horse riding.
Horse riding for leisure, a nascent pastime in mainland China, is getting more attention domestically and offshore, largely because it provides access to unique grassland and mountain scenery. And there are hopes the coming Year of the Horse could provide a further boost.
“Horse trips across the country’s diverse landscapes offer a wide variety of scenic experiences,” said Chan, who works in the food and beverages sector. “In recent years, the rise of equestrian sports has led many travel destinations to offer horse riding experiences.”
Travel platform Trip.com said it had recorded a 27 per cent year-on-year increase in domestic bookings for horse riding “products” over the past 12 months, with day tour packages the most popular choice.
Equestrian tourism has gained popularity because it opens “scenic sights and untapped areas for adventure in the wilderness”, according to a report posted on a website run by TravelDaily China, a publisher and event organiser.
Horse riding tours are becoming a distinctive way for travellers to explore lesser-known regions
Trip.com said the rugged landscape of the Siguniang Mountain region and the alpine lake scenery of Jiuzhaigou, both in Sichuan province, were also attracting horse riders.
“Authentic excursions such as horse riding tours are becoming a distinctive way for travellers to explore lesser-known regions,” it said.