The alliance of Qingdao, Yantai, Weifang, Weihai, Rizhao and Dongying is launched on Nov 17, in Yantai. [Photo/ ytta.gov.cn]

In a significant move, that can boost tourism, six cities of Shandong peninsula reached an agreement to set up a Shandong peninsula tourism cities alliance.

The alliance comprises of Qingdao, Yantai, Weifang, Weihai, Rizhao and Dongying was launched on Nov 17 in Yantai and more than 200 delegates from the six cities attended the launching ceremony.

"The largest peninsula in China, Shandong is a key part of the Northeast Asia economic circle. The six cities in the peninsula should spare no effort in combining tourism resources and collectively promoting Shandong's tourism brand and accelerating maritime economy," said Sun Shu'e, vice director of Shandong tourism bureau.

Tourism authorities of the six cities pledged to jointly hold festivals annually, promote unified slogan and image, develop tourist routes and share their resources.

A Chinese and overseas tour operators purchasing conference was also held during the ceremony. Over 80 tour agencies, scenic spots, hotels and airline companies signed 920 agreements worth 90 million yuan ($14.04 million).

Over the years, Shandong has strived to build a world-class tourist coast "Wonderland Coast" to be at par with the Gold Coast (Australia), Côte d'Azur (Blue Coast- Paris) and Costa de Sol (Spain).