TOURISM DEVELOPMENT

       Linyi has a long-standing history and mountains,rivers,scenic spots and historical sites. The Mengshan Mountains, Lying Dragon Lake, Yinqueshan Museum of Bamboo Slips (Sun Zi's Art of War and Sun Bin's Art of War) from Han Tombs, the Former Residence of Wang Xizhi -- sage of calligraphy, Zhu ge Liang's Memorial Hall,Yinan's Beizhai Stone Relief Tomb of the han Dynasty, the Ancient Battlefield of "Maling Battle" have become hot tourist attractions. In Linyi City proper the longest rubber dam (which has been listed in Guinness World Records) is built across the Yihe River, which forms the largest fresh water lake --Lying Dragon Lake (8.24 sq km) in the urban areas of the domestic cities. It heralds market prospects to develop lake-oriented sightseeing and water amusement. The Mengshan Mountains,1,156 m above sea level,abounds in natural vegetation and plant varieties. Its atmosphere contains 21.03% oxygen, as has brought it the name --"natural oxygen bar" and "mountain resort of longevity" and is listed as a national forest park. The Mengshan Giant Statue of the God of Longevity,217m high, carved on a piece of 300m-high exposed mountain rock, is the largest one in the world. 

　　Mountains ,waters and commercial markets are leading tourist projects of Linyi City.In 2001,Linyi received domestic and foreign tourists of 4,780,000 persons-times, earned tourism revenue of 2,452 billion yuan.During the May 1 golden week holiday tourism in 2001 alone,Linyi City received tourists of 704,500 persons-times, earning tourism revenue of 129 million yuan.Among others,the Mengshan Mountains received 330,600 persons-times, ranking third place in the tourist areas in Shandong Province.