China Sees Explosive Surge in Foreign Visitors for Spring Festival 2026, With Major Bookings from the US, Europe, and Southeast Asia

As China gears up to celebrate the Spring Festival, the country has witnessed a remarkable rise in the number of foreign tourists. In recent weeks, there has been a noticeable increase in travelers from various international destinations, with visitors from Vietnam, Singapore, Europe, the U.S., Australia, and New Zealand all making their way to China in droves. This surge in foreign arrivals has been particularly evident from Lunar New Year’s Eve through the Lantern Festival, with many tourists opting to extend their trips in order to fully immerse themselves in the lively festive atmosphere.

The surge in bookings has been overwhelmingly clear from data provided by multiple travel platforms. In the last two weeks, flight bookings for foreign travelers attending the Spring Festival have increased by more than four times compared to the same period in 2025. The cities of Shanghai, Guangzhou, Beijing, and Chengdu are the main gateways, serving as the top destinations for international tourists.

China’s Strategic Air Connectivity Fuels Visitor Influx

These major cities share certain key features that make them ideal entry points for tourists. First and foremost, these cities boast excellent air connectivity, with numerous international flights and airlines servicing the hubs, making travel to China more accessible. Furthermore, their smooth transportation infrastructure ensures that travelers can easily navigate the cities and explore the best of what the Spring Festival has to offer.

Shanghai, Guangzhou, Beijing, and Chengdu have all become hotspots for foreign visitors. Each of these cities is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant celebrations during the Spring Festival. The cities also provide an abundance of events and attractions that align with the festive spirit, from traditional dragon dances and lantern displays to seasonal markets and fireworks shows.

Visa Policies Drive Growth in International Arrivals

One of the major catalysts for this uptick in international visitors has been China’s recent policy adjustments regarding visa exemptions. In late 2025, the Chinese government unilaterally extended its short-term visa exemption policy for passport holders from 45 countries by an additional year. Notably, countries like Germany, Brazil, and several Southeast Asian nations were added to the visa-free list in December 2025, making it easier for citizens of these countries to visit China without the need for a visa.

In addition to this policy, the National Immigration Administration of China introduced a 240-hour visa-free transit policy, allowing travelers to stay in China for up to 10 days without requiring a visa. Furthermore, a 15-day visa-free cruise policy for Hainan Island was launched, which has significantly boosted interest in the region. These policy changes have been a boon for the country’s tourism sector, providing travelers from across the globe with greater flexibility and convenience when planning their visits to China.

Powerful Impact on China’s Inbound Tourism

These visa exemptions have had an immediate and significant impact on the country’s inbound tourism numbers. According to the National Immigration Administration, the total number of foreign entries and exits in China reached 82.035 million in 2025, marking a 26.4% increase year-on-year. Of these, 30.08 million were visa-exempt inbound entries, accounting for 73.1% of all foreign arrivals. This was nearly a 50% increase in visa-exempt entries compared to the previous year, further demonstrating the success of China’s relaxed visa policies.

The visa-free entry policies have made it easier for foreign travelers to plan their trips to China, contributing to the increasing popularity of the Spring Festival as a time for international visitors to experience China’s culture and traditions. With these strategic measures in place, China has positioned itself as an increasingly attractive destination for global tourists.

The Role of Diplomacy in Tourism Growth

These diplomatic measures, including the extension of visa exemptions and the introduction of the visa-free transit and cruise policies, have been key to driving the growth of inbound tourism. They reflect China’s broader efforts to boost its tourism sector and to encourage greater cultural exchange between China and the world. By eliminating barriers to entry and streamlining the visa process, China has made it easier for travelers to visit, especially during peak periods like the Spring Festival, which is considered one of the most significant and festive times of the year.

As China continues to enhance its relationships with other countries through diplomatic efforts and favorable travel policies, the country’s tourism sector is expected to experience further growth. The current trend of rising foreign tourists is just one example of how China’s policies are aligning with broader global tourism trends, creating a win-win scenario for both China and international visitors alike.

The Future of China’s Tourism Industry

Looking ahead, China’s tourism sector is likely to continue its upward trajectory, fueled by continued diplomatic efforts and the government’s focus on making travel to China more convenient. The surge in foreign visitors during the Spring Festival is expected to serve as a springboard for further growth in 2026 and beyond.

The success of recent visa policies will likely prompt further adjustments to China’s travel regulations, as the country seeks to capitalize on its growing tourism appeal. With more countries being added to the visa-exempt list, and new policies aimed at facilitating short-term travel, China is poised to become an even more prominent player in the global tourism market.

In conclusion, the Spring Festival of 2026 has already demonstrated the positive impact of China’s strategic visa policies on inbound tourism. The country’s efforts to foster diplomatic relationships and create an inviting environment for foreign visitors have resulted in a marked increase in tourist arrivals, particularly during this important cultural festival. As China continues to refine its approach to international tourism, the future looks bright for the country’s tourism industry, which is set to flourish in the coming years.

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