ABSTRACT
The impact of the backpacker culture on the development of China’s tourism industry cannot be underestimated. Most of the popular tourist attractions now visited by throngs of foreign tour groups, and by millions of Chinese tourists, were until only a few years ago secluded and idyllic backpacker destinations. They provided only basic accommodation in guest houses and simple restaurants selling local food. The inclusion of certain spots in the Rough Guide or similar guidebooks brought about interest from package tourists and groups, along with a demand for better accommodation.
