As the summer heat waned, China’s vibrant two-month summer travel season came to a successful close, leaving behind a trail of bustling railway stations, crowded tourist attractions, and a surge in both domestic and international tourism. The season was not just a celebration of the country’s thriving tourism sector but also a testament to its robust economic health, with businesses and communities benefiting from the influx of visitors.
Domestic tourism numbers soared, while the increase in foreign visitors further added to the dynamic atmosphere, highlighting China’s growing appeal as a travel destination. The palpable excitement and energy felt throughout the country during this travel season underscored the important role tourism plays in fostering cultural exchange and economic growth.
According to the Ministry of Transport, approximately 10.917 billion passenger trips were recorded across China during the summer travel season, averaging around 176 million trips each day. Railway travel experienced a significant surge, with a remarkable 887 million passenger journeys recorded nationwide, a 6.7% increase compared to the previous year. This robust demand for domestic travel vividly highlights China’s vast capacity for domestic demand and the robust dynamics of its consumer market.
The end of the summer season saw various online travel platforms reporting significant increases in bookings and visitor numbers. Spring Travel reported a surge in domestic travelers, surpassing the same period in 2023. Similarly, data from platforms like Fliggy indicated a year-over-year increase in both individual bookings and spending per person, with a growing focus on immersive travel experiences.
In Northwest China’s expansive desert regions, the allure of stargazing and connecting with nature has become a popular immersive travel experience. ‘Desert hotels,’ where guests can spend the night under the stars, saw a remarkable 270 percent increase in searches on Meituan in early August. Additionally, searches for ‘desert coffee’ soared by an incredible 518 percent, reflecting a growing interest in unique desert experiences.
The excitement surrounding China’s popular game Black Myth: Wukong has also significantly boosted tourism in areas like Shanxi Province in North China. The fusion of gaming with real-world locations has revitalized interest in historical and cultural sites. Data from Trip.com Group reveals that ticket sales for Xiaoxitian scenic spot, one of the game’s filming locations, have jumped by 261 percent compared to the previous year.
The influx of foreign tourists has brought an exciting and distinct element to this vibrant tourism boom. The implementation of visa-free policies has played a crucial role in attracting a growing number of international visitors, making China a favored destination on the global travel map. These relaxed entry requirements have opened the doors for travelers worldwide, encouraging them to explore China’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and dynamic urban centers.
This surge in overseas visitors has significantly enriched the local tourism experience, fostering cultural exchange and broadening the appeal of China’s diverse attractions. As foreign tourists explore everything from historic landmarks to modern marvels, their presence enhances the vibrancy of the tourism sector, contributing to the economic growth and cultural dynamism of the country.
These favorable travel policies have not only boosted the number of international arrivals but have also solidified China’s reputation as a welcoming and accessible destination for travelers from all corners of the globe. According to data from Trip.com Group, inbound travel orders during the summer season saw a substantial increase of around 70 percent compared to the same period last year.
South Korea emerged as the leading source of international tourists, highlighting its significant contribution to the influx of foreign visitors. Following South Korea, countries like Thailand, Japan, Singapore, and Malaysia also made a notable impact, sending a steady stream of travelers to China. Other key markets included the United States, Australia, Vietnam, the United Kingdom, and the Philippines, all of which contributed to the diverse and vibrant mix of international tourists visiting the country.
This surge in inbound travel not only underscores China’s growing appeal as a global travel destination but also reflects the success of policies aimed at making the country more accessible and attractive to visitors from around the world.
