China's updated visa-free transit policy has sparked interests among international travelers eager to experience traditional Chinese culture, creating more opportunities for the country's tourism and related industries.
Last week, the National Immigration Administration announced the extension of permitted stay for eligible foreign travelers from the original 72 and 144 hours to 240 hours, or 10 days.
Under the updated policy, eligible citizens from 54 countries, including Russia, Brazil, Britain, the United States and Canada, can enter China visa-free when transiting to a third country or region.
This change has been met with enthusiasm by international travelers, such as German tourists who visited the Forbidden City in Beijing in traditional costumes.
"I just like that it looks nice. I want to experience the culture and I saw the traditional clothing, so I was like I will try it," said a tourist from Germany.
"Like it's really pretty,the Chinese dress. I chose green and pink because it's like shining," said another German visitor.
The streamlined process has enhanced their travel experience and also facilitated business travel.
"I would say before it was quite difficult, not only for tourism, but also for business. But now I see a lot of foreigners coming in since the policy changed, I would say. I think it's quite a good opportunity for both, for tourists, but I think especially also for business," said another visitor.
"It will make it easier for people to come and visit and hope it will be hassle free with all the papers," said a visitor from Brazil.
"I think it's amazing. I've told my friends about it and invited them to come and see me, because I think it's a brilliant place to see and live, and we should learn more about it," said a British visitor.
The increase in international travelers is set to bring more opportunities for China's tourism sector. Tongcheng Travel, an online travel service provider, reported an 87-percent surge in searches for hotels and flights by overseas visitors after the policy announcement on Dec 17.
Apart from the expanded transit visa-free policy, China has established visa-free agreements with 26 countries, granted unilateral visa-free access to 38 countries, including France and Germany, and signed mutual visa exemption agreements with 157 countries.
"Before the visa-free policy, there were a few dozen Italian tourists in my group each year. This year, I've already hosted hundreds. Travel agencies should hire more people and upgrade services from transportation and dining to hotel bookings, to cater to the increased demand," said a tour guide for a travel group from Italy.
China's relaxed visa-free transit policy ignites passion for Chinese culture, boosts tourism
China's relaxed visa-free transit policy ignites passion for Chinese culture, boosts tourism
China's relaxed visa-free transit policy ignites passion for Chinese culture, boosts tourism
