Source: Global Times

UK website "Tourism Review" article on December 8, original title: The Chinese inbound tourism boom: Not just money. In 2025, a unique scene appears on China's streets, high-speed railways and ancient city walls: foreigners are everywhere again. Numbers speak louder than any words. Data from China's online travel platform Ctrip show that the number of inbound tourists in China increased by more than 100% year-on-year in 2025. These tourists are not just sightseeing in China; they also boost consumption levels. Among them, American tourists' spending increased by 50%, and French tourists' spending surged by 160%.

From a national perspective, the development of China's inbound tourism market is even more vigorous. By September 2025, the total number of foreigners entering and leaving China's ports has exceeded the level of the entire year of 2024. In the first eight months of this year, the total number of inbound foreign tourists reached 25.58 million, approaching the level of the entire year of 2024. If this trend continues, the total number of inbound tourists in 2025 is expected to exceed 35 million, setting a new historical record.

So what is driving the strong growth of China's inbound tourism market? Mainly due to the convenience of entry. In the first three quarters of 2025, the number of foreigners who entered China without a visa reached 20.89 million, an increase of more than 50% year-on-year, accounting for 71.6% of the total number of inbound foreigners. Cities across China are also feeling this change. During this period, Shanghai received a total of 6.326 million inbound tourists, which saw a significant increase compared to the same period in 2024, with a notable rise in the number of overnight tourists.

This not only helps to boost confidence in the tourism industry but also strongly promotes China's economic development. In the first three quarters of this year, Guangdong Province's tourism foreign exchange income reached 160 billion yuan, and both Guangxi and Beijing also saw a significant increase in tourism foreign exchange income. It can be roughly estimated that the tourism revenue brought by foreign tourists to China this year may grow by about 50%—possibly reaching around 150 billion US dollars. In an era where trade barriers are increasing and exports face greater pressure, an industry that generates 150 billion US dollars through local restaurants, hotels and shops is undoubtedly an important source of income.

Why is China so attractive to foreign tourists? There are five main factors. First, unique culture. From the Great Wall to various festivals in Yunnan, China has a deep cultural heritage that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Second, China's infrastructure is amazing. Tourists are often amazed by the high-speed trains that shine brighter than European trains, almost spotless streets, and cities that have achieved full digital payments. The most common statement heard from foreign tourists is, "China seems like a future world."

Third, relaxed visa policies have opened the door for foreign tourists. As of July 30 this year, China has implemented unilateral visa exemptions or comprehensive mutual visa exemptions for 75 countries, and the number of countries offering transit visa exemptions has expanded to 55. Fourth, high cost-effectiveness. In China, the total cost of a luxury hotel, high-speed train ticket, and one day of food is often cheaper than the price of a single night's accommodation in Tokyo or Paris. Fifth, safety and the hospitality of the Chinese people. Street crimes are extremely rare in China, and if they see foreigners in trouble, many Chinese people will offer help.

Although Chinese tourists are now everywhere in the world, the number of foreigners who have actually experienced China is still relatively small. This situation is finally beginning to change. When ordinary people from Europe, America, Southeast Asia, and Africa walk through the streets of China, eat hot pot with locals, or take the maglev train, they experience the real China. No official publicity campaign can give them this authenticity.

History tells us that conflicts often begin with stereotypes, or when we see others entirely as "others." Face-to-face friendly contact is the best way to bridge the gap. Every foreign tourist who experiences the kindness and efficient operation of China quietly breaks the stereotype of China.

This wave of foreign tourists coming to China also brings an external perspective. When foreign tourists like taking the high-speed train but encounter difficulties with online or payment apps, it highlights areas that still need improvement. Positive feedback reinforces the correct approach, and honest criticism urges improvements in shortcomings.

Travelers are not just a source of revenue; they are walking "ambassadors of promotion," reducing suspicion in the world and promoting national progress. In 2025, as the number of inbound tourists in China continues to increase, residents in various parts of the country once again feel the appreciation of foreigners for their country. But more importantly, this reminds the world that the real China is far more impressive than the version they have been fed over the years. (Author: Gregory Dologos, translated by Wang Huicong)

Original: toutiao.com/article/7581619898033259027/

Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.