‘They watch and leave’: China’s rocket hub Wenchang wants launch-day crowds to stay longer, fuel tourism
As rocket launches draw crowds to Wenchang, the coastal city in Hainan is trying to turn the spectacle into something more lasting - from tourism and manufacturing to satellite data, businesses and jobs.
Days before a rocket launch, young enthusiasts in Wenchang, China, follow the vehicle as it travels overland to the launch pad. Chen Huanpeng, a 23-year-old enthusiast, captures the view as the rocket passes through coconut trees and grazing cattle, showing that launches have become part of everyday life in the coastal city. After filming, the group gathers for tea and discusses business opportunities, reflecting Wenchang's aim to turn rocket launches into a lasting source of tourism, manufacturing, and employment.
The city's location near the equator provides a boost to rocket launches, and its coastline offers an advantage for transport. Wenchang, known for its coconut groves and Wenchang chicken, is now focusing on becoming an internationally recognized aerospace city with a cluster of companies, hotels, and aerospace-related industries.
Written by urgent.news from Channel News Asia's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
