China Tourism Update — 18 April 2026

tourism • 18 April 2026

China's inbound tourism is surging, with 154.5 million visitors in 2025—a 17.1% year-on-year increase—and total spending reaching $131.1 billion, up 39.2%. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, China's travel economy grew 9.9% last year, more than double the global average, positioning it to potentially become the world's top tourism economy by 2030. Global Times reports this boom is driven by visa-free entries for 30.08 million foreign visitors (up 49.5%), optimised tourism environments, and appealing cultural heritage sites popular with long-haul travellers from Europe and the Americas. Cultural attractions and tech-integrated experiences are drawing record crowds, including during recent holidays like Qingming Festival, where sites saw 50-60% international attendance. Experts highlight China's innovative products, friendly locals, and diversified destinations on platforms like Trip.com as key draws for Australian travellers seeking authentic adventures. This growth underscores China as an exciting, accessible destination with seamless high-speed rail, modern airports like Haikou Meilan, and vibrant hidden gems ready for exploration. Inbound trends show strong demand from content creators and leaders visiting landmarks, fuelling the viral "China maxxing" appeal. Australian tourists can capitalise on these facilitations for immersive trips blending heritage, technology, and natural beauty. Global Times.

Sources