In a bold move toward the future of tourism, Zhejiang Province in China has launched the country’s first AI-powered provincial-level tourism platform, “Zhejiang Travel,” on June 26, 2025, in Hangzhou. This innovative platform, developed in partnership with the Zhejiang Provincial Department of Culture, Radio, Television, and Tourism, promises to transform how tourists—both domestic and international—explore and experience Zhejiang. By integrating advanced artificial intelligence technology with travel services, Zhejiang positions itself as a trailblazer in smart tourism, setting new standards in seamless, personalized travel.
A Milestone for Smart Tourism in China
The “Zhejiang Travel” platform harnesses the power of two cutting-edge AI models—Alibaba Tongyi Qianwen (Qwen) and DeepSeek—to deliver an integrated travel experience that goes beyond conventional planning tools. This platform offers real-time updates, personalized recommendations, and dynamic itineraries, enabling visitors to craft their journeys with unprecedented ease and precision.
Zhejiang Travel stands out as China’s first provincial AI-driven inbound tourism system, showcasing the province’s ambition to lead in tourism innovation. Its launch at the World Tourism Alliance headquarters in Hangzhou highlights the city’s growing role as a hub where tradition meets cutting-edge technology.
Four Specialized AI Modules for Enhanced Travel Experiences
The platform features four core AI agents, each tailored to meet different traveler needs:
- Tour Guide: Curates personalized scenic routes that weave Zhejiang’s rich cultural and historical narratives into engaging travel experiences. This agent enhances visitors’ understanding of iconic sites through immersive storytelling.
- Hotel Consultant: Offers tailored accommodation suggestions based on traveler preferences, group size, and length of stay, eliminating the hassle of searching through numerous options.
- Budget Planner: Provides real-time expense forecasts and detailed budget breakdowns, helping tourists manage costs effectively throughout their trips.
- Neighborhood Assistant: Connects travelers with local food, shopping, and cultural events, fostering authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences within Zhejiang’s diverse communities.
Seamless Travel Enabled by “Easy GO” Smart QR Code
One of the platform’s most innovative features is the “Easy GO” smart QR code, designed to streamline multiple travel processes into one unified code. This QR code facilitates:
- Visa and Immigration: Simplifies entry procedures by expediting visa submissions and customs clearance, reportedly cutting wait times by over 60% for international visitors.
- Hotel Check-Ins: Enables contactless, rapid check-ins at accommodations, reducing queues and enhancing convenience.
- Attraction Access: Allows entry to museums, scenic spots, and cultural venues via QR scanning, eliminating ticket lines.
- Public Transport Payments: Supports major payment platforms for hassle-free transactions on buses, trains, and taxis.
This integrated approach eliminates many traditional pain points in travel, promoting a smoother visitor flow across Zhejiang.
Real-Time Multilingual Support and Added Services
The platform’s “Gummy” AI translation model offers live translation across multiple languages, breaking down communication barriers that international travelers often face. Beyond translation, Zhejiang Travel provides additional high-tech amenities, including:
- AI-assisted ride-hailing and car rentals for efficient intra-provincial transport.
- AI-powered photography tools to help travelers capture memorable moments effortlessly.
- Luggage transfer services, allowing tourists to move baggage conveniently between key locations.
- Dynamic route generation that adjusts itineraries based on real-time data, optimizing travel time.
Zhejiang’s Tourism Boom and Strategic Growth
Zhejiang’s launch of this AI-powered platform aligns with a dramatic surge in tourism growth. In 2024, the province experienced an 873% increase in visa-free foreign arrivals, welcoming approximately 131,000 international visitors. The government has also introduced themed tours, tax refund incentives, and developed pilot tourism zones to elevate Zhejiang’s appeal.
By blending rich traditional culture with advanced technology, Zhejiang aims to become a global tourism hotspot. Its integrated AI platform not only improves visitor satisfaction but also enhances Zhejiang’s competitiveness on the international stage.
The Future of Global Smart Tourism Begins in Zhejiang
Zhejiang Travel symbolizes a leap forward in the evolution of tourism worldwide. By fusing cultural insights with AI-powered logistical solutions, Zhejiang offers travelers a uniquely immersive and stress-free journey. The platform’s multilingual support and smart services set a new benchmark for how technology can enrich travel experiences.
As the platform continues to develop and inspire, it is expected to influence other provinces and countries to adopt intelligent tourism solutions, positioning Zhejiang as a pioneer in this emerging global trend.
Conclusion
The launch of Zhejiang’s AI-powered travel platform marks a turning point for smart tourism in China. Through seamless integration of AI-guided services, innovative QR code systems, and real-time support, Zhejiang provides a model for the future of personalized, efficient, and culturally rich travel. For visitors exploring Zhejiang in 2025 and beyond, this platform promises to deliver an unparalleled travel experience that marries technology and tradition in perfect harmony.
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