In a fascinating evolution of travel trends, China is witnessing a surge in industrial tourism - where citizens flock to cutting-edge factories not just for entertainment, but to witness the machinery of progress firsthand. Unlike traditional sightseeing, this phenomenon turns robot-powered assembly lines into immersive attractions, complete with guided tours, interactive exhibits, and even themed hotels.
As the world's manufacturing powerhouse pivots toward high-tech innovation, these sites symbolize national pride and technological ascent, drawing millions annually. But what sets China's version apart from global counterparts? It's less about individual landmarks and more about celebrating the collective march toward modernization.
The Rise of Factory Tours: From Assembly Lines to Tourist Hotspots
Industrial tourism in China has exploded in popularity, blending education, patriotism, and leisure. Factories equipped with advanced robotics and automation have become must-visit destinations, particularly for families and school groups.
For instance, Xiaomi's electric vehicle (EV) factory in Beijing, which opened to the public in April 2024, welcomed its 100,000th visitor in 2025, with demand so high that over 150,000 applications were received between launch and mid-year. This site alone hosts 111 monthly tour sessions, accommodating the influx of curious locals eager to see EVs roll off automated lines.
The trend extends beyond Xiaomi. BYD's EV plants, CATL's battery facilities, Huawei's tech hubs, Siasun's robotics factories, Haier's and Midea's appliance lines, CRRC's high-speed train assembly, and ultra-automated ports in Shanghai and Qingdao are all drawing crowds.
These locations often spawn entire tourist ecosystems: robot-themed restaurants, immersive VR experiences, and hotels tailored for "tech pilgrims." In Shenzhen, China's industrial capital, one such base opened in 2023 and is projected to attract 50,000 visitors in 2025 - double the previous year's figures - highlighting the rapid growth.
Nationwide, the scale is staggering. By the end of 2024, China had designated 122 national industrial tourism demonstration bases, 232 national industrial heritage sites, and 10 large industrial tourism cities, setting the stage for millions of visitors in 2025. Social media tags like "factory tours" and "industrial tourism" have gone viral, with one factory receiving over 7,000 applications for limited slots since January 2025.
While many participants are schoolchildren on free excursions, adults and families make up a significant portion, turning these trips into educational vacations.
A Uniquely Chinese Phenomenon: Process Over Place
What makes China's industrial tourism distinct is its focus on the broader narrative of national transformation rather than isolated icons. Visitors aren't just touring a factory; they're immersing in the story of China's high-tech evolution - from EVs symbolizing green innovation to robotics representing manufacturing dominance.
This aligns with government efforts to foster public appreciation for technological advancements, as seen in the "industry + tourism" integration initiatives across localities.
Contrast this with global examples. In Germany, Volkswagen's Wolfsburg factory embodies "German engineering excellence," attracting fans of automotive precision. Japan's Toyota City celebrates the post-war economic miracle, while the Netherlands' Heineken Experience museum offers a branded dive into brewing history.
Scientific sites like Switzerland's CERN or Japan's Tsukuba Science City draw crowds for their aura of mystery and cutting-edge research. Even "dark tourism" spots like Chernobyl appeal to thrill-seekers exploring industrial tragedies.
These international attractions anchor on specific symbols or stories, often targeting foreigners.
In China, however, the draw is the process itself - the seamless orchestration of robots, AI, and human ingenuity fueling the nation's rise. And crucially, it's a domestic affair: Locals dominate the crowds, reflecting a cultural emphasis on collective progress and self-education.
Broader Implications: Pride, Education, and Economic Boost
This boom isn't just recreational; it's economic. Industrial tourism ignites consumer markets, with factories morphing from production hubs into revenue-generating attractions. Companies like BYD and Huawei, which ranked in the top 100 of the 2025 Fortune Global 500, leverage these tours for branding, while Xiaomi jumped 100 spots in the rankings partly due to its innovative public engagement.
For China, it's a tool for inspiring the next generation amid a push for technological self-reliance. As one observer noted, these tours instill a sense of "this is our new reality - embrace it." With visitor numbers in the millions and clusters expanding, industrial tourism could redefine how nations showcase their industrial might.
In a world racing toward automation, China's model offers a blueprint: Turn factories into classrooms, and watch national identity evolve alongside the machines. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a curious traveler, these sites promise a glimpse into the future—one robot at a time.
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Author: Slava Vasipenok
Founder and CEO of QUASA (quasa.io) - Daily insights on Web3, AI, Crypto, and Freelance. Stay updated on finance, technology trends, and creator tools - with sources and real value.
Innovative entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in IT, fintech, and blockchain. Specializes in decentralized solutions for freelancing, helping to overcome the barriers of traditional finance, especially in developing regions.
