"China Travel" Fever: Foreigners Exploring China Like Never Before

But what exactly is the "secret formula" behind the viral popularity of “China Travel”? More than 110 measures have been implemented to facilitate entry for foreign visitors, with 144-hour visa-free transit expanded to 37 ports and 54 countries. The continuous optimization of visa policies and entry procedures has significantly enhanced the convenience of traveling to China, making it more accessible than ever. So, what’s it really like to travel through China?

Foreign Tourists Feel at Home in China

Take the example of Max and his wife, a couple from Germany currently enjoying a three-week trip through China. Recently, they boarded a high-speed train to their final destination, Guangzhou.

Max said, "We visited Changsha, and the people here are incredibly helpful. We don't speak Chinese, but that’s no problem—people always help us out, and everything works out. It’s wonderful. Some apps, like Alipay, have been really useful for us since we can connect it to our German bank account. Translation apps also make it easy for us to communicate by translating everything into Chinese. Traveling here has been very convenient."

Beyond the stunning landscapes and mouth-watering food, "convenience" is often the first thing foreign visitors mention when describing their travels in China. Since April of this year, cities like Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Suzhou have made it possible for foreigners to buy metro tickets using their international credit cards—no mobile app or cash needed.

Many cities are offering tailored services to further simplify travel for foreigners, such as assistance with SIM card registration, mobile payments, transportation guidance, and hotel bookings. Thanks to these efforts, foreign visitor numbers have surged. In the first seven months of this year, the number of international visitors to China increased by 403% year-on-year.

Not only are more tourists coming, but they are also staying longer. Many no longer settle for just checking off the top tourist sites. Instead, they dive deeper, exploring local markets, small eateries, and even becoming vloggers themselves to share their full experience of China.

Ivan, a tourist from Russia, shared his experience: "I came to check out the famous Shuangta Market. It’s completely different from what I imagined—super clean and even has a food court inside!"

Mickey, an American tourist, was equally amazed: "This is Suzhou’s vertical parking garage. I’ve never seen anything like it anywhere else. It’s incredible!"

Foreign Tour Guides See Growing Interest in China

Liu Bing, a Shanghai-based tour guide, starts his day at the airport, meeting new arrivals from Southeast Asia. Their first stop? The famous Yu Garden.

"More and more foreign visitors are coming lately," Liu said. "They’re fascinated by the architecture here—the traditional pavilions, bridges, and waterways."

The Bund is another must-see for foreign tourists in Shanghai, where they marvel not only at the rapid pace of China’s development but also at how safe they feel.

"Some of my clients tell me, ‘I feel completely safe walking through the streets of Shanghai, no matter what time it is,’" Liu added.

Since the introduction of the 144-hour visa-free transit policy, foreign tourist numbers have continued to grow. "We’re seeing visitors from countries I never used to guide. I want to show them a more complete picture of both Shanghai and China. When they return home and talk to their friends and family, they’ll realize how much China has changed."

A "90s" Filipino Girl Falls in Love with Chinese Culture

While the impressive pace of China’s modern development may wow many foreigners, it’s China’s deep connection to its ancient history and culture that keeps them coming back for more.

Take Charl Magbuhos, a young woman from the Philippines who has fallen in love with Chinese traditions. Whether it’s practicing tea ceremonies, exploring Chinese medicine, or donning a qipao, Charl embraces every aspect of her new life in China, documenting her experiences to share with her international followers.

“I drink tea all the time, but I never realized there was such a detailed process behind it,” Charl said. “There’s so much to learn. I feel like my Chinese isn’t good enough to express everything I’m feeling. China’s culture is vibrant, creative, and full of life. For example, you can find ancient paintings printed on teacups, pillows, and silk embroidery. This creativity makes it easier for people worldwide to experience Chinese culture."

Charl has also been amazed by the continuous development of traditional Chinese medicine. "I visited Tongrentang recently and discovered their new wellness drinks. I tried one the other day—it was really interesting. I made a vlog about it and hope more of my friends will get to learn about Chinese medicine."

For Charl, exploring Chinese culture in Beijing is a dream come true. "There are so many places and activities to experience here. I love qipao dresses—they’re so beautiful. On special occasions like Chinese New Year or the Mid-Autumn Festival, my Chinese friends insist I wear red. They say it brings good fortune for the year ahead."

The numbers don’t lie: foreign visitors are staying longer, exploring deeper, and falling in love with all that China has to offer. And with vloggers and influencers sharing their "China Travel" adventures across social media, more people around the world are eager to visit and experience the magic for themselves. Whether it’s the warm hospitality, stunning landscapes, or delicious food, one thing is clear—China is "City不City" on a whole new level, and the world can’t get enough of it.