The Norwegian tourism industry is experiencing a welcome resurgence, thanks in part to a new wave of Chinese tourists seeking authentic experiences beyond the well-trodden path. At a recent tourism promotion event in Oslo, officials highlighted the growing trend of Chinese travelers opting for independent trips to Norway, venturing beyond famous landmarks and embracing the country’s local culture and daily life.
Bjorn Krag Ingul, senior adviser at Innovation Norway, noted that Chinese travelers are increasingly eager to discover hidden gems and lesser-known destinations. “Their enthusiasm has even surprised our visa division, who couldn’t believe Chinese travelers were aware of these places,” Ingul remarked during the Chengdu, More Than Pandas tourism promotion event.
This shift in travel trends aligns perfectly with the goals of Innovation Norway and the China-based Scandinavian Tourist Board. Both entities are actively promoting extended stays in Norway across all seasons, encouraging travel operators to showcase the country’s unique offerings beyond the traditional tourist attractions.
Simultaneously, China has fostered reciprocal travel from Norway by adding the country to its 144-hour visa-free transit policy list in November 2023. This policy allows for short stays in designated cities, including Chengdu, which is actively seeking to attract Norwegian visitors.
Wang Jian, deputy director of the Chengdu Municipal Bureau of Culture, Broadcast, Television, and Tourism, expressed his enthusiasm for welcoming Norwegian tourists. “Chengdu is the hometown of the giant panda, but it offers much more than that. We warmly invite our Norwegian friends to stroll through the streets of Chengdu and experience the charm of this park city under snowcapped mountains,” he said.
The Chengdu, More Than Pandas event also focused on fostering mutual tourism between China and Norway. Norwegian travelers were encouraged to explore Chengdu, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and laid-back atmosphere. Chengdu offers much more than its famous pandas, providing a diverse range of experiences in culture, nature, and local lifestyle.
As Chinese tourists continue to seek out new experiences in Norway, from hidden gems to cultural immersion, both countries are reaping the benefits of this evolving travel landscape. Norwegian officials are optimistic about the growing interest in unique destinations within the country, while Chengdu aims to attract more Norwegian visitors to explore its rich cultural offerings.
This new wave of cultural exchange through tourism signals a promising future for travel between China and Norway. Both countries are exploring fresh opportunities for visitors to experience their hidden treasures, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for each other’s diverse cultures.
