China’s Inbound Tourism Surges Past Outbound Travel During National Holiday

China’s National Day holiday this year witnessed a remarkable shift in tourism trends, with inbound tourism growth outpacing outbound travel. The surge is attributed to China’s 144-hour visa-free policy and a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing foreign visitors’ experiences.

According to data from Ctrip.com, a leading online travel agency, inbound tourism orders during the holiday soared by an impressive 60 percent compared to the same period last year. This significant increase highlights China’s growing appeal as a travel destination for international tourists.

The top ten outbound destinations for Chinese travelers during the holiday were Japan, Thailand, South Korea, Malaysia, Vietnam, Australia, the United Kingdom, Singapore, the Philippines, and the United States. Interestingly, apart from Vietnam, these countries are also among the top sources of inbound tourists to China, indicating a robust exchange of travelers between China and these nations.

Thailand and Singapore, both of which have mutual visa exemptions with China, ranked third and fifth respectively in terms of inbound tourism. The ease of travel between these countries and China has undoubtedly contributed to the higher influx of tourists.

China’s efforts to facilitate foreign visitors’ consumption and accommodation have played a pivotal role in attracting more international tourists. The 144-hour visa-free transit policy allows visitors from certain countries to stay in designated areas without a visa for up to six days, making short-term travel more convenient.

As China’s tourism industry continues to rebound, the emphasis on creating a welcoming environment for foreign visitors is expected to further boost inbound tourism. The mutual interest between China and other countries in exploring each other’s cultures and attractions underscores the dynamic role of travel in fostering international connections.

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China's inbound tourism outpaces outbound travel during holiday

cgtn.com