Shanghai is experiencing a noticeable surge in Southeast Asian visitors, with Thai tourists leading the way. Rather than following traditional tour routes, many Thai travelers are crafting their own unique itineraries—often inspired by social media trends.
From the futuristic egg-shaped structure at the North Bund to the artistic 1000 Trees complex, Thai tourists are flocking to photogenic hotspots popular with international visitors. Their days are filled with snapping street photos, sampling local delicacies, exploring vibrant nightspots, shopping for collectible toys, and creating magical memories at Shanghai Disneyland.
“We don’t have those back home,” is a common sentiment among these travelers when asked about their chosen destinations. Their trips often conclude with visits to dessert shops, where they stock up on cakes to bring home as gifts for friends and family.
Several factors contribute to Shanghai’s growing appeal. Visa-free entry, affordable roundtrip airfares—around $140 during the off-season—and cultural familiarity make the city an attractive destination. Moreover, Chinese apps like Alipay and WeChat enhance the travel experience by allowing visitors to order food, pay bills, and instantly translate menus with ease.
Recent improvements to visitor services have also made trips smoother. The “instant tax refund” policy, extended nationwide on April 8, enables international visitors to receive refunds directly in stores, eliminating the need to wait until departure at the airport. In Shanghai, nearly half of the city’s tax refund partner stores offer this service.
Additionally, the updated Shanghai Pass One-Day Tourist Card provides bundled access to public transportation, sightseeing attractions, shopping discounts, and dining perks—making it even easier for travelers to explore the city during short stays.
