Qunar's cultural trips indulge domestic travelers

Rock rubbings, protection of wetlands along the Yellow River, participation in performing arts, craftwork, and opportunities to experience folk customs - these are some of the offerings coming the Chinese travelers' way, thanks to Qunar, an online travel firm.

Owned by China's largest online travel agency Ctrip, Qunar is redefining domestic tourism by harnessing the power of cultural elements.

It launched over 100 culture-themed tours in late June. These include in-depth trips, group excursions, and individual tours. Most trips are in the economy class. The most expensive tour - it lasts seven days and covers the Tibet autonomous region - sells for less than 6,000 yuan ($873).

Travelers are encouraged to write or recollect and sing folk songs, and attend traditional Chinese dramas such as Beijing opera, Shaanxi opera and Sichuan opera.