Digital innovation spurs tourism growth in Quang Ninh

A panoramic view of the flower and light boulevard installation shimmering along the shore of the heritage bay. (Photo: VNA)

The northern coastal province of Quang Ninh on February 15 inaugurated a decorative flower boulevard combined with light-technology installations, a new symbolic cultural-tourism product that blends installation art with modern technology and reflects the province’s innovative approach to developing cultural industries and the heritage economy.

The boulevard stretches for approximately one kilometre along the route from the flower park and 30/10 square to the museum–library complex in Ha Long ward. The space is designed around six core local values: beautiful nature, distinctive culture, a civilised society, transparent administration, a developing economy and happy citizens. The attraction will remain open to visitors until February 22.

Nguyen Viet Dung, Director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said the highlight drawing tens of thousands of residents and visitors is the combination of the zodiac horse symbol for the incoming lunar year with vibrant flower islands interwoven with a “light pathway” using programmable LED technology and modern projection techniques. For many residents, the installation offers an entirely new experience reflecting the spirit of a smart and creative city.

Derek Blackwell, a visitor from the US, said the fusion of the Ha Long Bay’s natural beauty with high-tech lighting installations creates a cinematic and dreamlike atmosphere. He was particularly impressed by the way Quang Ninh tells the story of heritage through the language of light and the colours of flowers, describing it as a truly memorable cultural experience.

Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Ta Quang Dong described the boulevard as evidence of efforts to implement the cultural industry development strategy, creating momentum for Quang Ninh’s tourism to strengthen its position as a major regional events destination.

In 2025, the provincial tourism sector welcomed a record of more than 21 million visitors, exceeding its original target. Total tourism revenue was estimated at 57 trillion VND (2.19 billion USD), making an important contribution to the province’s GRDP growth. Average visitor spending reached approximately 2.7 million VND per trip. Tourism continues to affirm its role as a key economic sector, generating tens of thousands of jobs and promoting growth in services, trade and transport.

In 2026, Quang Ninh aims to attract more than 22 million visitors, including 5.2 million international arrivals, with total tourism revenue projected to reach at least 65 trillion VND. To achieve these targets, the province is positioning tourism not merely as sightseeing, but as an ecosystem built on the heritage economy, the night-time economy and the digital economy.

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