International tourists are increasingly bypassing crowded landmarks to seek immersive cultural experiences across the Chinese mainland, driven by newly relaxed visa-free entry policies. Travelers now prioritize tea ceremonies in Fujian, shadow puppet workshops in Shaanxi, and rural homestays in Yunnan over traditional bucket-list sites like the Great Wall.
\"Visitors want to understand China through its people and living traditions, not just postcard views,\" said Dominic Callum de Couto, co-founder of cultural experience provider Our Beijing, in an interview with CGTN. His company has seen a 40% rise in bookings for artisan-led activities since the visa policy took effect.
Analysts attribute this shift to growing interest in Asia's intangible cultural heritage, with the Chinese mainland's simplified entry process enabling spontaneous trips. Tourism authorities report increased arrivals from Southeast Asia, Europe, and North America, with average stays lengthening from 7 to 12 days.
