Augmented Reality (AR) technology, particularly through mobile devices, has revolutionized the way tourists interact with and learn about scenic attractions, offering immersive and interactive experiences beyond traditional guided tours. This paper presents the design and implementation of a mobile AR-based tourist guide system, integrating a mobile visual recognition system to enhance tourist engagement and knowledge acquisition at points of interest (POIs). By overlaying digital information directly onto the physical environment, the system provides multimedia information, including 3D models and historical facts, through user-friendly interfaces. Employing a user-centered design, our system was evaluated in a renowned scenic area for its usability, effectiveness in information retention, and user satisfaction. Results indicated a substantial enhancement in the tourist experience, showcasing increased engagement and knowledge retention. The success of this system emphasizes the transformative potential of AR in tourism, suggesting a scalable approach to enriching cultural and historical education across global tourist destinations.