The Kazanqi folk tourism area in Yining city in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region's Ili Kazak autonomous prefecture, is known for the ubiquitous blue color that adorns its doors, windows, columns, porches and walls.

Tourists can see some 300 old buildings in different styles, some of which date back to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), and choose from 88 designated tourist home visits, where residents welcome guests.

They can also sample flower tea and dried fruits, and have cultural experiences that include learning how to make fruit preserves and traditional Uygur snacks.

The local government has added parking space and public restrooms in scenic areas, including one underground parking lot which has capacity for 700 vehicles. Tourists driving their own cars can also park in the downtown area, where more parking spaces are available.

"Local residents can benefit from tourism on their doorstep. ... People are proud to share their culture and hometown, and provide generous hospitality. This gives visitors a more immersive experience instead of just a cursory glance," says Kanarya Yarmamat, deputy director of the city's culture, sports, radio, television and tourism bureau.

During the recent National Day holiday from Oct 1 to 7, Yining city received 896,100 domestic tourists, an increase of 23.99 percent over the same period last year and generated tourism revenue of 614 million yuan ($86.44 million), a 31.97 percent year-on-year increase.