How has the virus lockdown affected tourism in Jingzhou?

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The virus lockdown has severely impacted tourism in Jingzhou, leading to a sharp decline in visitor numbers and business for local vendors.

The lifting of travel restrictions in Jingzhou has allowed some businesses to reopen, but the lingering effects of the coronavirus lockdown are evident in the drastically reduced tourist activity. Li Yu, a roasted corn seller who has operated near the city's ancient wall for seven years, reopened her stall but reported that business is at its worst. The usual peak season during the Chinese Lunar New Year in February was cancelled due to lockdowns, and even the upcoming flower blooming season, a traditional high point for tourism, is expected to suffer significantly.
Reduced Foot Traffic and Business Operations

On the day Reuters spoke with Li Yu, only two out of seven stalls in her section of the ancient wall were open, and by the following day, all stalls were closed, with only a few individuals observed strolling through the area. This starkly contrasts with normal periods, where Li Yu would typically earn 4,000 yuan per month. Currently, selling six corn cobs yields a mere 12 yuan, highlighting the minimal economic activity.
Stigma Affecting Hubei's Tourism

Residents of Hubei province, the epicentre of the outbreak, are facing a stigma that deters visitors. Li Yu noted that people from outside Hubei are hesitant to travel to the region, and when they learn someone is from Hubei, they tend to keep their distance due to fear. This perception further exacerbates the challenges faced by tourist attractions in Jingzhou, as fewer outsiders are willing to visit.
Government Support and Business Challenges

While Chinese authorities are implementing measures to stimulate consumer spending and encourage visits to tourist sites, such as distributing discount vouchers, their impact on the ground remains to be seen. The Hubei government has also pledged support for small businesses through policies like value-added tax exemptions. However, for some business owners, like restaurant owner Zhou Yanjun, these measures offer little immediate relief, as her establishment remains shut, yet she is still obligated to pay rent.
Personal Impact on Residents

The lockdown has also had a personal impact on individuals seeking employment and returning to work. Friends Wang Jue and Xiao Man, both 25, met at the Jingzhou ancient wall tourist area for the first time since the lockdown. Wang is awaiting her return to her job in Wuhan, which was scheduled to remain under lockdown until April 8. Xiao is actively applying for jobs but has not received any responses recently, illustrating the broader economic uncertainty affecting individuals.

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How has the virus lockdown affected tourism in Jingzhou?

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