After 15 years of evolution, the Jinji Lake Dragon Boat Festival has transformed from a mere sports event into a comprehensive one integrating cultural inheritance, international exchange, and consumption. Recognized as an exemplary “sports plus tourism” project in China, it has become a vital showcase of Jiangnan (the region south of the Yangtze River) culture.

“Based on the dragon boat race, SIP strives to expand development of water sports, hosting more water sports competitions and supporting establishment of more water sports clubs to popularize water sports among the public,” said Xue Guiliang, secretary general of SIP Dragon Boat Sports Association.

In addition to water sports events, SIP has fostered various events such as theme fairs, performances and exhibitions that have brought new experiences to tourists during holidays. Such events have not only increased SIP’s appeal as a tourist destination, but also played an important role in driving local economic growth.

In the future, the Jinji Lake Dragon Boat Race will continue to serve as a link between traditional culture and modern innovation, and a bridge for international cultural exchanges. It is expected to inspire the emergence of more “sports plus” development models.