China reports surge in foreign tourists as summer vacation begins

Other major cities are also welcoming record numbers of international visitors. According to official data, a total of 2.56 million foreign travelers entered China through Shanghai's Pudong and Hongqiao international airports in the first half of this year, marking a 44.7 percent year-on-year increase.

Meanwhile, Xi'an, a cultural hub known for its Terracotta Warriors, has welcomed more than 135,000 foreign visitors this year, a 124 percent jump from the same period last year. Notably, over 100,000 of them arrived under visa exemption policies, including unilateral and mutual visa-free entry as well as the visa-free transit policy, marking a staggering 290 percent surge compared to 2024.

To meet the growing demand, immigration authorities at major border checkpoints have introduced a range of measures to reduce waiting times and improve the travel experience.

Tourism destinations across the country are also tailoring experiences for international visitors. In Beijing, the Palace Museum offers foreign-language tours focusing on the architectural significance of the landmark spots. In Xi'an, tourists can immerse themselves in China's rich history by dressing in traditional Tang Dynasty costumes.

This significant rise in inbound tourism this summer is no coincidence. Summer is traditionally a major vacation season for travelers from Europe, North America and Southeast Asia, leading many to choose China as their preferred destination during these months.

The surge has also been driven by China's continued easing of entry policies for foreign visitors. As of now, China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy applies to 55 countries, while nationals from 47 countries are eligible for unilateral visa-free entry.