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'Love Hotels' Popping Up in China as Sexual Attitudes Shift

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With society opening up, sexual attitudes are changing rapidly in China — especially among the younger generation, the Millennials.

China is slowly catching the "love hotel" bug as Chinese entrepreneurs spot an opportunity to make money. New special hotels are popping up all over Beijing.

They're called "love hotels," where couples can spend private time away from their families to enjoy a night of romance.

Most Chinese Millennials believe the hotels can help improve relationships.

"I don't see any wrongs. If a person has the money, it's totally acceptable. There is no regulation from the government. Plus, love hotels are beneficial for people who are dating. It spices up the relationship," said one Millennial man in Beijing.

The room decor is a key feature that sets the "love hotel" apart from other hotels. There are various themes. But most emphasize fantasy interiors, decorated in bright colors and are dimly lit to create a romantic atmosphere. A circular mattress and Jacuzzi are standard.

Young lovers are also attracted to the hotel's reasonable prices.

The cost normally ranges from $47 to $60 per day. But two hours of "private couple time" can be purchased for as low as $30. Most chains also offer membership deals with discounts and privileges for loyal customers.

But some young Chinese Christians have different opinions about the hotels. They don't quite understand why the Chinese government allows love hotels but resists building more churches. They also believe the love hotels could encourage promiscuity and prostitution.

Yang Shang Hua is a pastor of Youth, Love, Hope Church of Beijing.

"As a Christian leader, we strongly oppose this type of behavior. We are not saying our government is supporting this. However, we need to train more believers about teaching unbelievers to stay away from the temptations," said Pastor Yang.

Other Beijing Christians agreed with the pastor.

"Dating and marriages ought to be Christ-centered. Love hotels are just meaningless rooms. Relationship without God is like trees without roots," said one woman.

Although the Chinese government puts no regulations on the number of "love hotels," Chinese entrepreneurs see it as a good way to make money. In addition, despite concerns voiced by China's growing Christian population, the younger generation finds nothing wrong with the "love hotels."

And that means more of these establishments are likely to open as Chinese businessmen look for more ways to profit from Chinese Millennials.

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Mengfei
Li