The Xi'an International Horticultural Expo 2011 unveiled its appeal at a promotion on Tuesday in Beijing to attract tourists from the capital city.

The Expo is another important international gala being held in China after the Olympic Games in 2008 and Shanghai Expo in 2010. The 178-day Expo started on April 28 and is being held until Oct. 22 at the Chanba Ecological Zone in Xi'an. It has 109 outdoor gardens, where between 5,000 and 7,000 variety shows will be held during the Expo.

At the promotion yesterday, the organizing committee announced its preferential policies for attracting individual visitors. Also as part of the promotion, the organizing committee said a lucky draw would be held for visitors.

About 144 scenic spots from 20 cities in the areas around Xi'an were also introduced at the promotion to lure visitors from Beijing.

Big-name travel agencies, including China International Travel Service and China Travel Service were invited to the promotion. According to the organizing committee, many Beijing-based travel agencies have made the trip to the Expo in Xi'an their main attraction for tourists this year. Managers from the travel agencies said they would launch more tour products to Xi'an in connection with the Expo this year.

The Expo covers a total area of 418 hectares, with 188 hectares of water. Architectural landmarks in the area include the Changan Pogoda, Creative Hall and Nature Hall. Visitors will enjoy the art of gardening and architecture during the visit. They will also have the chance to enjoy close contact with giant pandas.