Tianyi Pavilion in Ningbo, East China's Zhejiang province. [Photo/WeChat account: nbfb0574]

Residents of Ningbo in East China's Zhejiang province will be able to enjoy a 50-percent discount when visiting some local scenic spots and cultural sites on National Tourism Day which falls on May 19, local tourism authorities recently announced.

Holders of local identity cards, residence permits or temporary residence permits issued by Ningbo public security agencies are eligible to enjoy the discount.

Attractions, including Roman U-park, Xuedou Mountain Scenic Spot and Former Residence of Chiang Kai-shek, are offering a 50-percent discount on admission tickets.

Two large-scale theme parks - Ningbo Fangte Glorious Orient and Ningbo Fangte Oriental Heritage - will issue 3,000 half-price tickets on online tourism platforms as well.

Visitors do not necessarily have to travel on May 19, as some scenic spots like Roman U-park and Hangzhou Bay National Wetland Park have extended the validity of the preferential policy.

On the same day, residents will also be given discounts at hotels, homestays, restaurants and activities such as canoeing, sailing, go-karting and night boat tours.

A total of 128 cultural and tourism companies in the city, including 62 scenic spots, are participating in the campaign this year, a record high.                                

Xu Xiake, a famous Chinese explorer during the 17th century who was regarded as the Chinese Marco Polo, started his 28-year journey around China on May 19, 1613 from Ningbo's Ninghai county.

In 2011, May 19 was designated as China's National Tourism Day by the State Council, China's cabinet.