The Dec 30-Jan 1 holiday break saw 690,600 New Year's celebrants visit Zhuhai, an increase of 15.7 percent over the previous year. They added 513 million yuan ($75 million) to the city's economy, a 26.7 percent year-on-year rise.

They reportedly were attracted by bountiful travel options ranging from sports to culture and family reunions. About 233,300 stayed overnight, an increase of 7.5 percent, according to the Culture, Sports & Tourism Bureau.

Highlights included the 2018 Hengqin Marathon as well as a New Year's Eve party with fireworks and classic performances at Chimelong International Ocean Tourist Resort, which also offered close encounters with friendly animals. Nearby, cycling, hiking, and carnival events were organized by Jinwan District. In Xiangzhou, a rainbow run allowed participants to spray others with an array of pigments before a large crowd at the Zhuhai Agricultural Paradise in Qianshan.

2018 Hengqin Marathon [Photo by Zhang Zhou]

There were also hot spring experiences, gourmet food, art performances, and other entertainment.

Road trips were taken by many tourists who designed their own short routes to places to pray for blessings and to appreciate Zhuhai's landscapes.

Meanwhile, rural scenic areas such as Shili Lianjiang Scenic Spot and Huatian Water Village in Doumen District thronged with reunited families.

The 2018 Guangdong (Zhuhai) Seed Expo, which is being held through Jan 12 at Taiwan Farmers Venture Park in Jinwan, drew crowds as well and proved a good place for demonstrating Zhuhai's modern seed industry.