Tourism is a cornerstone of Shanghai's economy, significantly enhancing the quality of life for its residents. With the market booming this year, the government is rolling out accommodation consumption coupons worth a total of 90 million yuan ($12.8 million) to keep the momentum going.

Who can participate and when

The coupons are available to everyone, including residents and tourists. The distribution will take place in two phases:

Phase one: From late September to the end of October. The coupon portal opens on Sept 28 at 11 am, with 40 million yuan ready for distribution.

Phase two: From early November to the end of December, with an additional 50 million yuan available.

Participating businesses

To join this program, accommodation providers must be licensed to operate in Shanghai and not listed on any serious violation blacklist by local authorities or the Credit China website. The Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism will announce the participating businesses in batches.

Coupon details

During the first week, you can choose from four types of discounts:

- Spend 300 yuan and save 50 yuan

- Spend 600 yuan and save 130 yuan

- Spend 900 yuan and save 220 yuan

- Spend 1,200 yuan and save 300 yuan

Note: The amount and types of coupons available will be adjusted weekly based on how many are claimed and used.

How to claim coupons

Coupons will be distributed through three selected payment platforms, which will be announced ahead of time. They will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Each coupon is valid for seven days from issuance, and once you redeem one, you can apply for another.

Usage rules

You can use these coupons at participating businesses for discounts on accommodation, and they can be combined with other promotions. Be sure to use your coupons within their validity period, or they will expire automatically. Note that coupons cannot be used to buy group vouchers or prepaid cards.