China’s New Year Travel Surge Sparks Economic Revival
As the world welcomed the New Year, China witnessed an extraordinary surge in holiday travel that ignited economic vibrancy across the nation. Millions of travelers hit the roads, rails, and skies, both domestically and internationally, making this season one for the record books.
Millions on the Move
According to the National Immigration Administration, China facilitated a staggering 1.803 million inbound and outbound trips during the 2025 New Year’s holiday, marking a 13.7% increase from the previous year. Chinese residents were eager to explore, with 869,000 trips by mainland citizens—a boost of 11.1%. Notably, trips by foreign nationals soared by 33.6%, reaching 185,000.
Hot Spots and Cool Escapes
Popular domestic destinations included vibrant cities like Shanghai, Beijing, and Hangzhou. Meanwhile, regions known for their winter charm, such as Heilongjiang and Xinjiang, became hotspots for “snow and ice tourism.” Skiing, hot springs, and indoor snow parks attracted crowds seeking chilly adventures. On the flip side, southern provinces like Hainan offered warm getaways with activities like surfing and scuba diving.
Outbound Travel Takes Off
Chinese travelers didn’t just explore their own backyard. Outbound travel saw explosive growth, continuing the robust trend from 2023. Bookings for international trips increased by nearly 70%, with top destinations including Japan, Thailand, and Malaysia. Even international car rentals surged by over 70%, indicating a desire for more personalized travel experiences.
Welcoming the World
China’s updated visa-free policies made it easier than ever for foreign tourists to join the festivities. From December 31, 2024, to January 1, 2025, inbound tourism orders doubled. The country extended its visa-free transit policy to allow eligible travelers to stay up to 240 hours—10 days—without a visa, significantly boosting tourism.
Economic Boost
The travel boom didn’t just benefit the tourism sector. Consumer spending surged, with increased hotel bookings, especially for New Year’s Eve. Cities like Beijing saw shopping malls extend hours and host events, drawing massive crowds. Official data showed that Beijing’s 60 key commercial areas recorded over 8 million visitors, a 7.8% increase from the previous year.
A Bright Start to the Year
This surge in travel and spending signals a positive start to the year for China’s economy. The enthusiasm of both domestic and international travelers highlights China’s enduring appeal and its growing influence in global tourism. As borders continue to open and policies become more traveler-friendly, the trend is set to continue, bringing with it economic vitality and cultural exchange.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
