China Tourism Update — 6 October 2026

tourism • 6 October 2026

China’s latest travel updates for tourists are centred on **easier entry, stronger inbound demand and more trip options beyond the major landmarks**. According to Xinhua and China Daily, China is continuing to improve visas, payments, tax refunds, guided tours, accommodation and transport for international visitors, while the country’s 2026–30 tourism plan aims to lift annual inbound arrivals to **190 million** by 2030.[15][2] For travellers already heading to China, the most practical change is the growing range of **visa-free and transit options**. CGTN reports that China’s 240-hour visa-free transit policy now covers **57 countries** and **65 open ports in 24 provinces**, while Hainan offers **30-day visa-free entry** for nationals of **61 countries**.[12] Official reporting also says visa-free entries accounted for **23.72 million** of the **61.29 million** border crossings made by foreign nationals in January–August 2026, showing how strongly these arrangements are being used.[4] Tourism activity is also shifting towards **longer stays and multi-city itineraries**. Xinhua says flight bookings for trips of more than **2,000 km** rose **76% year on year** during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day period, and CGTN reports that bookings for flights to **two or more cities** grew **70%** as travellers turned transit hubs into destinations in their own right.[15][11] For Australians planning a trip, that means China is increasingly well suited to mixed itineraries combining major cities with smaller cultural and food-focused destinations.

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