National-Level Scenic Area

A national-level scenic area is an area whose natural, ecological or cultural landscapes reflect important natural processes or major historical and cultural developments, is representative of its natural state or has maintained its original appearance. Before a national-level scenic area is approved and announced by the State Council, the people’s government of the province, autonomous region or municipality directly under the central government shall submit an application, which will be considered and reviewed by the Department of Construction of the State Council and other relevant departments, including the Department of Environmental Protection, the Department of Forestry and the Department of Cultural Relics. Alternative English names for a national-level scenic area include ‘National Park of China’, ‘Scenic and Historic Interest Area’ and ‘National Key Scenic Area’.