Research into more than 400 historic sites in Shanghai is being carried out ahead of a three-year plan to develop "red tourism" which will be released later this year.

Shanghai has about 600 revolutionary sites, but many were destroyed during war, said Shen Chao, a director at the Shanghai Tourism Administration.

The plan will cover turning "red tourism" resources into "red tourism" bases, developing "red tourism" products, and training staff to promote the development of the city's "red tourism."

Shanghai has 34 "red tourism" bases, and six will be added by 2020, Shen said.

Residents learn about Shanghai's "red tourism" routes at a "red tourism" related event atLuxun Parkon Sunday.

At a "red tourism" related event hosted by the administration at Luxun Park in Hongkou District on Sunday, a competition was launched for photographers to submit works related to "red tourism." Winning photos will be exhibited during this year's Shanghai Tourism Festival.

Shanghai plays an important part in the history of the Communist Party of China, and is home to many historical and cultural sites, revolutionary sites and former residences of famous people, ideal for the city to develop into "red tourism," officials said during the event.

A student answers questions about "red tourism" at the event.

The city has many "red tourism" resources, but they are scattered and some have residents living inside, said Xu Weiwan, director of the administration. They have many stories to tell and the target is to string these resources together, she said.

The city has already developed 10 "red tourism" routes, that include the site of the Fourth National Congress of the Communist Party of China, Shanghai Luxun Museum, the former residence of martyr Li Bai and the former site of Tiantong’an Station of Songhu Railway.

The design of some routes involves immersive experiences, encouraging participants to complete tasks, unravel mysteries from clues hidden in exhibits and "experience" relevant historic events.

"'Red tourism' is an inseparable part of Shanghai tourism," said Shen. "Immersive experiences allow youngsters to better experience the glamour of 'red tourism’."

Shanghai will also enhance regional cooperation on "red tourism" and develop a variety of "red tourism" products, Shen said.

The city will join with Jiaxing, Zunyi, Jinggang Mountain, a site revered as the birthplace of the Chinese Red Army, and Yan'an on tourism promotion and route design.