China to promote civilized tourism

Don't dispose of any garbage while on the road. Take your trash with you until you can dispose of it at an appropriate place. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

From its first national tourism law in 2013 to today's industry regulations, China is the first country in the world to include tourists' behaviors in laws and regulations.

The ongoing "toilet revolution" launched earlier in January to improve the toilets at tourist sites that have long been complained of their insufficient numbers, unhygienic conditions, and lack of management, is another example of legal regulation.

China rolled out its first national tourism law in 2013 aiming to promote sustained industry growth. Tourist behavior is singled out in the law, which asked tourists to observe public order and respect social morality, respect local customs, cultural traditions and religious beliefs, care for tourism resources, protect the ecological environment, and abide by the norms of civilized tourist hebaviors.