China's Expanding Visa-Free Policies Drive Significant Tourism Growth Across Multiple Cities

Giacomo, a young Italian traveler, embarked on his long-awaited first trip to China. After weeks of preparation, he landed in Zhengzhou, Henan province, with the Shaolin Temple, a Kung fu shrine, as his primary destination.

His journey, like that of many other international visitors, was facilitated by China's expanding visa-free travel policies. These policies are reshaping how international travelers experience the country. The number of visitors from countries like South Korea, Malaysia, and Japan has increased significantly.

China's visa-free transit policies have been continuously adjusted and improved since November 2023. The implementation of the 240-hour visa-free transit policy at the end of last year has significantly boosted inbound tourism. Streamlined procedures and extended stays allow international visitors to experience more of China's culture and attractions.

In the first quarter of 2025, Zhengzhou Airport saw over 27,000 inbound and outbound passenger trips by foreign nationals, a 115 percent increase from the previous year. Approximately 40 percent of these inbound trips were made without visas. Many visitors are drawn to cultural and historical sites such as the Shaolin Temple.

Similarly, Shenzhen, Guangdong province, recorded 1.57 million inbound and outbound trips by foreign nationals in the first quarter of 2025, a 39.5 percent year-on-year increase. Over 320,000 travelers entered China visa-free, a 112 percent increase. Arrivals from South Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia saw the highest growth.

A German traveler and a Belgian wedding party, who entered China visa-free, shared positive experiences. The visa-free policies have made travel easier and border clearance faster.

Comparable growth has been reported in other major Chinese cities. Over 601,000 foreign travelers entered China visa-free via Shanghai ports during the same period. Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport in Liaoning province saw a significant increase in foreign nationals entering without visas.

Businesses are responding to the increase in international travelers by enhancing services. Zhengzhou Airport has launched an international visitor payment center. Over 1,500 businesses across Henan province now accept foreign credit cards. Travelers can now enjoy their experience in China without rushing.