The ongoing Jiangsu Province Urban Football League, colloquially known as “SuChao,” has recently captured the attention of a large number of football fans, prompting a significant increase in tourism and cultural consumption in the six host cities. The league’s popularity has been so overwhelming that several cities have requested to switch to venues with more seating and better facilities, including improved lighting and turf conditions, to accommodate the growing number of spectators.
Official data indicates that over 180,000 fans have flocked to the host cities to watch the matches live, with attendance rates rivaling those of professional football leagues. The “SuChao” has not only been a sporting sensation but has also become a catalyst for local tourism. From June 2nd to June 8th, the booking of tourist attractions in Jiangsu Province saw a year-on-year increase of 305%. This surge in tourism is a testament to the league’s ability to draw in visitors and boost local economies.
In response to the “SuChao” phenomenon, local tourism and cultural departments have been quick to capitalize on the event’s popularity. They have introduced a variety of match-viewing tourism packages and city IP performances, effectively transforming the influx of fans into a boost for tourism. The success of the “SuChao” has shown that sports events can be a powerful driver for tourism and economic growth, and it is expected that similar initiatives will continue to be explored in the future.