During the recent May Day holiday, China experienced a significant uplift in travel activity, as millions of travelers both domestic and international crossed borders throughout the five-day event. The National Immigration Administration reported nearly 11.3 million cross-border trips from May 1, reflecting an uptick in tourism and international travel interest.
On average, about 2.26 million people crossed borders daily during this holiday, representing a 3.5 percent increase from the same period last year. The busiest travel day was identified as May 2, with airports, train stations, and border checkpoints bustling with activity across various regions.
Additionally, foreign visitors to China surged, with over 1.26 million trips recorded, showcasing a 12.5 percent increase year-on-year. Approximately 436,000 travelers arrived via visa-free options, marking a notable 14.7 percent rise as China continues to broaden its visa-free entry policies for international tourists.
In recent years, the Chinese government has rolled out numerous travel-friendly initiatives, such as extended visa-free durations, streamlined entry processes, and instant tax refunds for travelers. These measures aim to recover tourism and enhance China’s reputation as a leading global travel destination.
Data also indicates that foreign tourists are venturing beyond traditional hotspots, with provinces like Heilongjiang, Guizhou, Hunan, Xinjiang, and Shanxi experiencing inbound tourist growth of over 60 percent. Notably, visitors from Russia reported the most substantial increase, climbing by more than 120 percent compared to last year.
Many international tourists have opted to immerse themselves in local culture, opting for experiences that reflect daily life rather than just visiting famous landmarks. For instance, a tourist from Russia in Jiangsu Province participated in local football matches and engaged with residents practicing Baduanjin, a traditional exercise linked to historical wellness methods.
In Guangxi's Dongxing city, a young Vietnamese visitor explored vibrant night markets, tasted local delicacies, and shared her travel stories online. She praised the warmth of local hosts and found transportation and urban living in China to be welcoming and convenient for first-time guests.
To enhance travel experiences for international guests, Chinese cities have unveiled new tourism support systems. In Beijing, attractions like the Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven now feature English-language feedback forms and AI translation tools, facilitating easier navigation for foreign visitors. Other cities, including Changsha and Chengdu, have expanded international payment options, bilingual volunteer initiatives, and currency exchange services.
Experts suggest that the remarkable growth in cross-border travel during the May Day holiday underscores the resilience of China's tourism sector and its broader economic implications. Analysts believe that relaxed visa strategies, improved visitor services, and a growing preference for cultural experiences are drawing more international travelers while motivating Chinese tourists to seek personalized travel experiences abroad.
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