GUANGXI, China: Yangshuo county in Guangxi, China is known for its natural beauty and is attracting an increasing number of tourists.

And while it has traditionally been overshadowed by attractions such as the scenic Guilin city, Yangshuo attracted over five million visitors last year.

The new tourism hotspot pulled in revenue from tourist visits of about S$260 million in 2007, up 45 per cent from 2006.

A show, which has been choreographed by famed director Zhang Yimou, and which is performed "live" everyday, has been drawing the crowds to Yangshuo.

Steven Yin, rooms director, Yangshuo Tangrenjie Hotel, explained: "At night, after they watch the show, many will choose to stay overnight in Yangshuo. So that has helped to boost the hotel industry.

"Previously, the tourists will just sail along the Li River and shop on West Street before returning to Guilin."

There are over 380 hotels in Yangshuo to cater to the growing number of local and foreign tourists.

More visitors from Europe, the United States and Southeast Asia are holidaying at the scenic destination.

However, it is not expected to escape unscathed by the global economic downturn. Hoteliers there are already expecting an 11 percentage point drop in occupancy rate this month, compared to the same period last year. - CNA/ms