China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy continues to draw global travelers in 2025, with visitors describing their experiences as 'eye-opening journeys through ancient and modern wonders.' Recent arrivals highlighted the Great Wall's majesty, Shanghai's futuristic skyline, and Sichuan's fiery cuisine as standout moments in their itineraries.
'I never imagined how seamlessly tradition blends with innovation here,' said Marie Dubois, a French architect who explored Beijing's hutongs and tech hubs. 'The hospitality in smaller cities like Chengdu felt genuinely warm—it's changed my perception of the Chinese mainland.'
Business travelers also benefit from the streamlined access, with tech entrepreneur Raj Patel noting: 'This policy lets me attend meetings in Guangzhou while still exploring cultural sites. It's reshaping how professionals engage with China's economic landscape.'
Tourism analysts report a 35% year-on-year increase in short-term visitors since the policy expansion, particularly among younger travelers seeking authentic cultural immersion. Popular social media posts showcase everything from Xi'an's terracotta warriors to Guilin's karst mountains, driving what industry insiders call 'the new China travel wave.'
