The Rise of Short Video Platforms Like Kuaishou and Tourism Influence
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- Source：The Silk Road Echo
In the fast-paced digital era, short video platforms like Kuaishou and Douyin have revolutionized how we consume content — and yes, they're reshaping the travel industry too. From hidden mountain villages to bustling night markets, these apps are turning everyday users into global storytellers, and destinations into viral sensations overnight.
Why Short Videos Are Changing Travel
Gone are the days when travelers relied solely on guidebooks or travel agencies. Now, a 60-second clip of a misty rice terrace in Yunnan or a sizzling skewer at a Xi'an street stall can spark wanderlust in millions. Kuaishou, with over 600 million monthly active users (MAUs), has become a powerhouse for grassroots tourism promotion.
Unlike polished influencer content, Kuaishou thrives on authenticity. Real people, real moments. A farmer livestreaming her morning harvest might accidentally turn her village into the next must-visit spot. That’s the magic.
Data That Speaks Volumes
Let’s talk numbers. According to QuestMobile, short video apps accounted for 28% of total mobile internet usage time in China in 2023. And tourism-related searches on Kuaishou grew by 75% year-on-year. Here's a snapshot:
| Platform | Monthly Active Users (Millions) | Tourism-Related Views (Monthly) | Top Content Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kuaishou | 620 | 4.8 Billion | Livestreams & User Journeys |
| Douyin | 750 | 7.2 Billion | Short Clips & Challenges |
| Bilibili | 310 | 1.5 Billion | Vlogs & Documentaries |
How Destinations Go Viral
Remember Li Ziqi? Her poetic rural life videos didn’t just win fans — they boosted tourism in Sichuan’s countryside. Similarly, Kuaishou creators from lesser-known towns are now becoming unintentional tourism ambassadors.
Take Chekeng Village in Guizhou. Once overlooked, it exploded in popularity after a user posted a timelapse of villagers dancing under starlight. Local guesthouse bookings surged by 300% within weeks.
The Ripple Effect on Local Economies
It’s not just about views. It’s about livelihoods. When a destination trends, local vendors, homestays, and transport services see real gains. A 2023 study by Peking University found that villages featured on Kuaishou experienced an average income increase of 42% from tourism within six months.
Platforms are catching on. Kuaishou launched its “Beautiful China Journey” campaign, partnering with local governments to promote rural tourism through creator collaborations. The result? Over 500 small towns gained national attention in one year.
Travel Tips for the Short-Video Era
- Follow local creators — They know the best spots before they get crowded.
- Check geotags — Many posts reveal exact locations, perfect for off-the-beaten-path adventures.
- Visit early — Viral fame means crowds. Beat the rush!
The Future is Visual, Instant, and Human
Short video platforms aren’t just apps — they’re cultural mirrors and economic engines. As more travelers turn to Kuaishou for inspiration, the line between content and experience blurs. The next big travel trend won’t come from a brochure. It’ll come from someone just like you, filming their morning tea ritual in a quiet village.
So grab your phone, hit record, and who knows? You might just put your hometown on the map.