Experts and officials have a discussion at the Ordos International Summer Leisure Congress. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

The Ordos International Summer Leisure Congress was held in Dongsheng district of Ordos in Inner Mongolia autonomous region, July 19-20. Experts and officials gathered to discuss ways to develop the leisure industry of Dongsheng.

A special committee was set up for the development of Dongsheng's leisure industry during the congress. "Ordos is a perfect city for leisure industry thanks to its unique natural scenery and infrastructure," said Wang Jun, chairman of the International Leisure Industry Association. "We hope the committee in Ordos can bond cities in North China and lead the development of their leisure industry."

Li Mingde, of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, offered some advice for the development of Dongsheng's leisure industry. He said that Ordos needs to enhance the cultural environment for its leisure industry and make leisure culture a tradition in Ordos. He thinks the establishment of the committee is a good way to achieve that.

As for the leisure industry, China still lags behind other developed countries around the world, according to Wang Jun. He told China Daily that China is in the initial stage now, but it will develop rapidly in the near future as the government has paid much attention to it and China has superb tourism resources.

The congress was co-hosted by the International Leisure Industry Association and the government of Ordos. During the congress, the Ordos Hot Air Balloon Festival opened, with performances of fire eruption and hot air balloons flying.

Ordos is a good summer resort, as the season's average temperature is 21 C. Also, it has rich natural tourism resources such as desert and grassland landscapes, as well as cultural tourism resources. It has won the title of National Sanitary City, National Civilized City, and National Livable City.

Balloons are prepared for a performance at the Xiangshawan desert scenic spot during the Ordos Hot Air Balloon Festival. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]