Gulangyu Island To Become A "Honeymoon Island"

The Gulangyu-Wanshi Mountain Scenic Spot Committee recently announced a plan to develop Gulangyu Island into a "Honeymoon Island" and has launched a series of honeymoon-themed activities on the island.

Under the new plan, construction will start on 10 honeymoon-themed hotels in 2011, and wedding photo-shooting settings will be built. During the period from December 20, 2010 and February 14, 2011, an unplugged live music show and a competition to select the country's best bride will be launched.

Ye Xizhi, the director of the committee, said that Gulangyu Island's resources are unique and scarce, due to its long history, and tourists from home and abroad actually enjoy the sea, sandy beach, old exotic buildings, paved roads and the beautiful sounds of pianos on the island.

In 2010, Gulangyu Island has became the second-most popular destination for couples to spend their Valentine's day, following Sanya on Hainan Island: according to a survey conducted by a group of domestic tourism websites. Statistics show that an average of 50 newlyweds have their wedding photos taken on the island each day, and this is a sign of great market potential.

Gulangyu Island is now applying for World Cultural Heritage status and it needs protection, according to the committee. As a result, the maximum number of newlyweds taking photos on the island each day will be limited to 100, in a bid to protect the island's environment and resources.