Cities vie for a slice of cake as marriage rules ease

Chinese couples are now tying the knot in their favorite cities nationwide, with the country revising its marriage registration regulation to ease the documentation process, and this paradigm shift in rules has become the icing on the wedding cake for the local economy.

As lovebirds rush to register their union at the place where they first met, where they studied together, or where they pledged their everlasting love, or a place they've never been to before, many cities are offering incentives to cash in on this surge in special visitors.

Some have moved marriage registry offices to parks, historical buildings, or popular scenic spots, while others are offering free tickets or discounts to tourist attractions, or even souvenirs that reflect the local culture as wedding presents.