Chinese tourism has grown significantly

Tourism is booming, and recent research highlights China’s key role in boosting travel across Asia. The report of the research report on the development and cooperation of tourism and foreign tourism between China and major Asian countries and regions states that the strong development of China’s tourism industry strengthens the economic and cultural relations between China and its Asian rivals. As borders reopen and people’s willingness to travel increases, this rebound is not only good for the economy but also changes the landscape of regional connectivity.

Asia is leading the global recovery

Based on the latest data from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the report paints an optimistic picture of global travel. By 2024, the world will see a whopping 1.45 billion international tourists, indicating significant travel demand. Asia led the way with 323 million arrivals, accounting for 22.3% of the world total. This is not a coincidence; Better air travel, easier visa regulations, and a widespread desire for authentic post-pandemic experiences are driving it.

The impact of Chinese tourism is very obvious. Outbound tourism spending from China increased by 30 percent last year, with global tourism revenue reaching $2 trillion for the first time. As the report notes, “Chinese travelers are more than just tourists; they are economic drivers.” The trend has far-reaching effects, from the bustling markets of Bangkok to the glittering streets of Tokyo.

Tourism growth in the Asia-Pacific region outpaced all others at 9.56%, with total revenue rising to $1.95 trillion – a 6.4% increase over the previous year. Forecasts by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) suggest that China’s tourism sector alone will add 13.7 trillion yuan (about $1.9 trillion) to the global economy by 2025. It accounts for 10.3% of global tourism GDP and supports around 83 million jobs. The report suggests that a “new paradigm” is emerging: a flexible, inclusive and sustainable cooperation at multiple levels that will lead China towards greener and fairer growth.

The changing tastes of Asian travelers

The days of plain sight are over. Today’s tourists, especially from China and Asia, want to be fully immersed in their travel experiences. The report highlights a move towards “city roaming” and “social sharing” where travelers get involved in local life, from exploring street food in Seoul to visiting craft workshops in Hanoi. Digital platforms are driving the trend, with the #ChinaTravel hashtag garnering more than 8.5 billion views on social media platforms outside of China. This shows China’s appeal, with cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu among the top 20 “Most Desirable Asian Destinations” for international visitors.

This trend is turning into real gains for inbound tourism. In 2024, China welcomed 132 million arrivals, spending about $94.2 billion. Looking ahead, WTTC forecasts a 30% increase in domestic revenue to 880 billion yuan (about $122 billion) in 2025, indicating continued confidence in the sector.

Deepening cross-border cooperation

This report shows how this trend has reached a new level of cooperation in the field of tourism between China and its Asian partners. In Russia, for example, more than 1.5 million Russian tourists are expected to visit mainland China by 2024 – a 115.1% increase over the previous year. The cold winter in Russia has made China an attractive destination for tourists who are familiar with different climates and cultures.

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is a good example of multilateral cooperation. In the first half of 2025, the tourist exchange between the member countries has reached almost 8 million, which shows an increase of 35 percent compared to the year. The Shanghai Cooperation Organization, in today’s geopolitical landscape, is increasingly vital to strengthening people-to-people ties, and this surge in tourism really illustrates that.

Short trips are also becoming more popular. Visa waivers and high-speed transit are helping this trend. A large number of young professionals from South Korea and Japan now prefer weekend trips to China. These visits are now spontaneous city trips, where they used to spend time before. “These policies are more than just paperwork – they invite you to explore,” says the report, which has really fueled the growth of short-haul tourism.

Towards a shared horizon

Looking ahead to 2025, the report shows that tourism is not just a sector; It also serves as a tool for flexibility and renewal. As an important source of foreign tourists and a popular destination, China’s tourism trend has a positive trend throughout Asia. This trend promises new job opportunities, cultural exchange, and continuous innovation. Even so, there are challenges such as tourism in popular areas, climate change, and the need to distribute benefits equitably. By focusing on sustainable, environmentally friendly practices, partners can help sustain this boom.

According to the report, the tourism landscape in Asia is “taking shape” in a truly transformative way. For travelers, policymakers, and companies alike, the message is clear: the journey is just beginning, and China is at the forefront. So, whether you are planning your next city trip or investing in the hospitality sector, one thing is clear – the region is full of energy.