📅 May 19 marks China Tourism Day, celebrating the legacy of 17th-century explorer Xu Xiake – Asia’s original wanderlust icon whose travel diaries shaped geographical studies. This year’s theme? \"Explore China, Enjoy a Happy Life\" – and the numbers show travelers worldwide are doing just that! 🎉
🇨🇳 With visa-free entry for 15+ countries and expanded transit policies (hello, 144-hour layover adventures!), tourism is skyrocketing. The National Immigration Administration reports 13+ million foreign visitor entries in Q1 2024 – a jaw-dropping 305% increase from 2023! 🚀
🌆 From Shanghai’s neon-lit skyscrapers to Xi’an’s ancient Terracotta Warriors, cultural hotspots are buzzing. As one travel influencer put it: \"China’s mix of tech-forward cities and untouched landscapes is TikTok gold – no filter needed.\" 📸
✈️ Airlines are adding 40+ new international routes this summer. Pro tip for digital nomads: The Yangtze River Delta’s 144-hour visa-free zone now includes Shanghai, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang. Workation, anyone? 💻🌊
Reference(s):
China Tourism Day: The positive trend of China's inbound tourism
cgtn.com