China's tourism industry has experienced a significant surge during the Golden Week holiday, with a large number of foreign visitors flocking to the country to experience its rich culture and vibrant economy. According to recent statistics, the number of foreign nationals entering China during the first half of the year reached 22.914 million, representing a 20% increase compared to the same period last year. This growth is a testament to China's ongoing efforts to open up to the world and facilitate travel.
The Chinese government has implemented various measures to make it easier for foreigners to visit the country, including improving visa policies and entry procedures. For instance, the 240-hour visa-free transit policy now applies to 57 countries, while 61 countries are eligible for a 30-day visa-free entry to Hainan. These measures have led to a significant increase in the number of foreigners entering China without a visa, which reached 17.815 million during the first half of the year, accounting for 77.7% of all foreign arrivals.
A recent survey conducted by CGTN found that 92.8% of respondents reported that social media content about traveling in China had sparked their interest in visiting the country. Furthermore, 87% of respondents stated that they believed a visit to China would provide them with a more comprehensive and authentic understanding of Chinese culture and society. The survey also revealed that 91.8% of respondents believed that China's visa facilitation measures had made them more likely to travel to the country.
The growth of China's tourism industry is not limited to traditional attractions such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City. Foreign visitors are increasingly drawn to the country's modern conveniences and innovative technologies, including mobile payments and high-speed trains. The "China Travel" trend has become popular on social media worldwide, with many foreigners sharing their experiences of traveling in China and discovering its unique blend of tradition and modernity.
According to Jiang Yiyi, a professor at the Beijing Sport University, China's tourism industry is becoming a significant contributor to the country's economy. The professor noted that the growth of China's tourism industry is a reflection of the country's ongoing efforts to open up to the world and share the benefits of its development. The survey found that 92.2% of respondents believed that practical services such as mobile payments and high-speed trains were essential to the travel experience in China.
The survey also revealed that 91.2% of respondents believed that China provided a unique space for the implementation of new technologies and products, thanks to its diverse range of applications and large consumer market. This has contributed to the growth of industries worldwide, enabling them to become more extensive and of higher quality. As China continues to develop and open up its economy, it is expected to create more opportunities for countries around the world.
The growth of China's tourism industry during the Golden Week holiday is a significant indicator of the country's economic prospects and vitality. The survey found that 89.8% of respondents welcomed China's sustained economic growth, while 80.6% believed that the country's economy would maintain its positive momentum in the long term. As China continues to develop and open up its economy, it is expected to contribute to shared prosperity and create more opportunities for countries around the world.
Key points
- China's tourism industry sees significant growth during Golden Week, with a surge in foreign visitors and a boost to the economy.