Reference News Network, December 30 report: According to the website of the American magazine "Around the World", on December 26, the year-end holiday season of 2025 has arrived, and China's tourism industry has seen a boom, which is partly due to the implementation of visa facilitation policies. The surge in inbound tourism has driven rapid development of China's tourism industry.
During the Christmas and New Year holidays, the number of foreign tourists received by China will reach a new high, and cross-border tourism activities will see significant growth. With the continuous increase in tourists from neighboring countries and international markets, the holiday tourism boom is expected to continue to intensify. Under the context of the Chinese government simplifying entry procedures, tourism companies, small businesses, and hotels are reaping substantial benefits from international tourists.
Visa facilitation is an important reason for the growth in the number of inbound tourists during this holiday season in China. The Chinese government has relaxed visa regulations, including extending the transit visa-free period and implementing visa-exempt entry policies for citizens of specific countries, providing more convenience for foreign citizens traveling to China. Further optimization of the foreigner transit visa-free policy has attracted tourists from Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia to choose China as their holiday travel destination.
The growth in the number of inbound tourists during the holiday season brings significant benefits to the tourism and hotel industries. Hotel occupancy rates in many parts of China have been consistently rising, with strong market demand. Popular tourist cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong have experienced peak reception periods due to the increase in international tourists.
As foreign travelers flood into China during the holiday season, many hotels are almost fully booked. Many hotels have introduced holiday packages, including special events, Christmas dinners, and New Year's Eve parties, to attract international tourists.
For small boutique hotels and hostels, the growth in demand presents opportunities to develop emerging tourism markets. By offering personalized services and unique cultural experiences, these small enterprises can meet the needs of international tourists seeking in-depth experiences and authentic accommodations. Many small hotels have already attracted overseas tourists by offering local tours, Chinese culture experiences, and customized services.
While hotels and large tour operators enjoy the benefits of increased foot traffic, small and micro enterprises also benefit from the growth in cross-border tourism and the rise in customer numbers. Driven by the tourism boom, restaurants, handicraft shops, and street vendors have welcomed more customers.
For small shops selling souvenirs, traditional handicrafts, tea, and silk, the growing demand from international tourists has become an important support for their development. Many tourists prefer to explore local markets rather than large commercial centers to find unique items that represent Chinese culture, are distinctive, and are authentic.
Restaurants in popular tourist areas are also thriving, with both local and international diners coming to taste traditional Chinese dishes and festival specialties. The foot traffic in places like Wangfujing Street in Beijing and Nanjing Road in Shanghai has significantly increased, offering international tourists rich choices for authentic Chinese flavors and festive delicacies.
All parties encourage small and micro enterprises to actively adjust their business models, innovate and develop, and create customized services and unique products to attract the growing number of tourists, especially those from Southeast Asia and Europe who are enthusiastic about China's rich cultural experiences.
Looking ahead, the holiday tourism boom and visa facilitation measures are expected to have a lasting impact on China's tourism industry. With the continuous improvement of transportation infrastructure and smooth entry channels for foreign tourists, the growth momentum of cross-border tourism is expected to continue in the coming years, making China increasingly a favored destination for travelers.
With its well-developed infrastructure, supportive policies, and increasing reputation as a top global tourist destination, the Chinese tourism industry is expected to achieve new heights in the coming years. Both tourists and small and micro enterprises will benefit from these changes, making China a charming place for travel and investment. (Translated by Wu Mei)
Original: toutiao.com/article/7589496002760032768/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.