CCTV News: The Spring Festival holiday is coming soon, and the popularity of "Chinese travel" on social media is still unabated. Foreign tourists are increasingly enthusiastic about coming to China. The high growth in inbound tourism may become a highlight of the 2025 Spring Festival tourism market.
Under the latest implementation of the "240-hour" visa-free policy and the continuous expansion of the "visa-free circle of friends" since 2024, inbound tourism has continued to grow rapidly. Data from relevant platforms show that inbound travel orders during the Spring Festival of the Year of the Snake increased by 203% year-on-year.
Shanghai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in China. In 2024, there were 4.56 million foreigners entering Shanghai, of which 1.67 million foreigners were allowed to enter without visa, which is 4.7 times that of the whole year in 2023. The first Chinese Spring Festival after applying for World Heritage is approaching, and the lively Yuyuan Lantern Festival and various New Year exhibitions are being prepared in full swing.
Recently, foreigners from the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, France and other countries experienced the authentic Chinese New Year in Anhui. The performances of dragon dance, lion dance, sugar blowing people, and riddle guessing have aroused everyone's interest.
The ancient oriental civilization, vibrant modern neighborhoods, the "fireworks" of the city and the cool high technology bring a refreshing experience to foreign tourists. A special survey by the China Tourism Research Institute showed that more than 60% of respondents will experience Chinese culture as the main purpose of traveling to China.
Dai Bin, director of the China Tourism Research Institute, said that the Chinese dream of national rejuvenation and people's happiness has formed a huge attraction to foreigners. There are also many people who like to experience Chinese food and participate in daily life with more young Chinese people. During this year's Spring Festival, the number of foreigners entering the country is expected to hit a record high.
