China emerges as fast-growing destination for Russian tourists

China is quickly climbing Russia's list of most popular travel destinations, contributed by a pilot visa-free policy, expanding tour options, and growing interest in cultural and family travel.

Overall, Russians made nearly 2.5 million trips to China last year -- the second-highest figure in modern history.

"Interest in China is growing - now we see families with children traveling, not only businessmen or solo tourists. They want to visit the Beijing Zoo to meet pandas, travel to Chengdu," said Daria Domostroeva, public relations director of travel agency Intourist.

Nearly 746,000 trips were made by Russians to China in the fourth quarter of 2025 alone -- a record figure and almost 40 percent higher year-on-year. Travel agencies say trips for the Chinese New Year holiday were sold out well in advance following China's decision to allow Russian travelers to enter the country with only a passport and stay up to 30 days for tourism, business, transit or visiting relatives.

Growing awareness of the Chinese New Year celebrations has drawn additional interest. The holiday period also coincides with Russian school vacations, prompting many families to plan trips together.

"I am very interested in Chinese traditions and would really like to visit. I learned about the Chinese New Year celebrations in Moscow and I am here to meet with China," said a resident participating in Moscow's festivities.

"We visited China by going to Hainan. It was really interesting. Now we want to visit the continental part, big cities like Beijing," said another.

Many travelers combine sightseeing with seaside relaxation, making stopovers in Beijing or Shanghai before heading to resort destinations.

"It's my first time in China. It's a very beautiful country, very beautiful city, Sanya," said Maxim, a Russian tourist vacationing in the southern island province of Hainan.

"I will advise this place to my friends and family to visit. It's a very popular place for Russian people," said Christina, another Russian tourist.

China emerges as fast-growing destination for Russian tourists

A grand dragon and lion dance parade and fireworks shows were staged on Saturday in the Chinatown of The Hague, Netherlands, with nearly 10,000 locals celebrating the Chinese New Year.

Accompanied by traditional Chinese instruments of gongs and drums, dragon and lion dance troupes in colorful costumes weaved through the bustling streets, attracting countless eyes, along with fireworks lit to add more luster to the most important Chinese festival.

Mayor of The Hague Jan van Zanen extended his best wishes for the Chinese New Year at the event, saying that the Chinese community in the city has built a bridge of understanding between the two peoples.

On Sunday, a cultural fair was also held in Suva, the capital of Fiji, to celebrate the Spring Festival. The event, themed "Happy Chinese New Year, Embracing the Chinese New Year," brought together thousands of Fijian Chinese, local residents, and international tourists to celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Horse.

The event not only featured multiple cultural performances, but also included booths showcasing traditional handicrafts and folk cultures from both countries.

Interactive activities such as Chinese calligraphy workshops, paper-cutting lessons, and displays of Hanfu costumes -- a style of Han Chinese clothing worn more than 2,000 years ago, allowed the public to experience the charm of traditional Chinese art up close amid a strong festive atmosphere.

Netherlands, Fiji hold cultural events to celebrate Spring Festival