Liu Shumin, head of Shandong Binsheng Scenic Area Management Service, said the tower has offered more than 20 courses on traditional Chinese culture, including movable-type printing and willow weaving.

"The tower also offers various types of activities, such as research tours, and undertakes Yellow River-themed photography exhibitions and video competitions. We have also developed more than 30 kinds of cultural and creative products," Liu added.

One of the most influential tourism brands in Yuncheng county, the Shuihu Film Studio is another key complex integrating film and television shooting, research, as well as performances. There are 36 courtyards, 72 landscape sites, and 108 scenic spots displaying the diverse cultures of the Chinese classic novel Shuihuzhuan, or Heros of the Marshes. During the Spring Festival this year, it received 30,000 to 40,000 visitors per day.