A Beijing college student surnamed Chen, 24, brought his younger brother to the Memorial of the Site of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China in Shanghai during the past summer.

He noted how his brother was inspired.

"I hope the experience of being on the spot will help him understand what life was like for our forebears and encourage him to strive for a better life," Chen said.

He added that his Red tour to Yan'an included an impressive opera and other stage performances. "It's much better than mere sightseeing," he said.

Han Bing, chief researcher of culture and entertainment at consultancy Roland Berger, said Red tourism sites have developed alongside a booming sector of Red films and television. Combining tech tools, such as mini-programs, mobile games, virtual reality and augmented reality, adds ways to marketing among young tourists, she said.

"Innovation brings new choices and experiences. It attracts a broader range of customers, which enhances education."

Feng Xiaojie contributed to this story.

[email protected]