HAIKOU /China/, February 27. /TASS/. The resort city of Sanya in South China's Hainan Province has gained popularity among foreigners visiting the island this year, Sanya Daily reported.

The paper interviewed foreign visitors who experienced Hainan's traditional culture and took part in numerous events on the Lantern Festival celebrated in China. This was possible mainly due to official measures designed to create a tourist friendly environment.

City authorities encourage all kinds of colorful entertainment events, as they leave lasting impressions on visitors. Many visitors to the island are noted to have been inspired by the sense of joy and festivity and are eager to come back to enjoy the tropical climate.

Many Russians have come to Hainan for vacation this winter. According to Sofia, a Russian tourist quoted by the newspaper, everyone "should come to Sanya to feel its charm."

Chinese residents celebrate the Lantern Festival (Yuan Xiao Jie) on the 15th day of the first month of the lunar calendar (February 24 this year). It marks the end of Lunar New Year celebrations. It is customary to take walks in parks and recreation areas bordering water bodies on this date.

Sanya is China's leading resort, home to more than 1 million people. In 2023, its gross product amounted to 97.13 billion yuan (approximately $13.66 billion), an increase of 12%. Its average annual temperature reaches 25.4 degrees Celsius, and its coastline is over 200 kilometers long. There are 19 bays and about 40 islands suitable for tourism in surrounding waters, all of which make it possible to explore the city's coastline.