Visa-Free Travel Fuels Record Surge in Russian Tourism to China
China's visa-free policy for Russians has led to a dramatic rise in tourism, with flights doubling and visitor numbers up 130%.
A visa-free travel agreement between China and Russia, introduced last September, has triggered a dramatic surge in tourism. Flight frequencies between the two countries have more than doubled, rising from 120 to 270 per month, and Russia has become the second-largest source of inbound tourists to China in the first half of the year. The number of Russian visitors has increased by over 130% year-on-year, according to China's National Immigration Administration.
Tour operators in Russia report that China is now in particularly high demand. The visa-free policy, combined with the diversity of destinations, is a major draw. Popular choices include Beijing for its history and culture, Shanghai for its futuristic skyline and shopping, Guangzhou for business and gastronomic tours, and Hainan for wedding ceremonies. Chengdu remains a favorite for its giant pandas.
Russian tourists like Vera, who recently returned from her first trip to Beijing, are enthusiastic about their experiences. She described walking on the Great Wall as an incredible feeling, saying it felt like being transported into another historical era. Historian Leonidas Landa, who has visited China several times, praised the combination of cuisine, natural scenery, and history, noting that places like Fenghuang Ancient Town and the nearby Avatar Mountains in Zhangjiajie offer convenient transport and a rich experience.
China's proactive efforts to attract Russian tourists have also played a key role. The Chinese government has supported workshops and promotional tours for Russian tour operators, allowing them to see the destinations firsthand. With the current trend, the number of Russian visitors could reach a record 3.5 million in the near future.