Multiple ports in south China's tech hub of Shenzhen have registered record-high passenger flows during the summer vacation period since July, with a notable surge in foreign tourists visiting cultural landmarks and purchasing cultural and creative products, according to local authorities.
According to statistics, Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport has handled 657,000 passenger trips, up 4.1 percent year on year as of August 3, including 69,000 foreign arrivals since the start of the summer rush, a year-on-year increase of 24.5 percent. Travelers from Malaysia and Singapore ranked among the top source countries.
"Since the start of the summer season, visa-free entry has accounted for 61 percent of all foreign visitors, a year-on-year increase of 29 percent. In particular, family travel to China continues to gain popularity, with the number of children under the age of 14 increasing by 24 percent year on year," said Chen Peixin, an officer at the Shenzhen Airport Border Inspection Station.
Meanwhile, Shenzhen's Liantang Port recorded 3.03 million passenger trips, a 9-percent increase and the highest summer traffic volume since the port opened in Feb 2023 to passengers.
Beyond traditional landmarks, tech-themed attractions have become must-visit stops.
"I really like China. I have a friend in Shenzhen and plan to stay for five days. I want to try Cantonese cuisine and also check out Shenzhen's high-tech scenes," said a Vietnamese tourist.
Nantou Ancient Town, a 1,700-year-old historical and cultural landmark in Shenzhen's Nanshan District, has drawn large numbers of international visitors, with young travelers and family groups frequently seen exploring the bustling attraction.
"It's become a lot more popular recently. I saw a lot come up on TikTok. So yeah, I think I really like the architecture, like the buildings and stuff like that," said a British tourist.
The rich cultural atmosphere has also fueled robust sales of Chinese-style creative products in the area, with local merchants reporting a significant increase in revenue from foreign customers.
"We've seen about a 10 to 20 percent overall increase in foreign customers. It's very noticeable," said Zheng Shihui, a merchant in Nantou Ancient Town.
The Shenzhen International Museum of Art, which opened less than three months ago, has also become a popular destination for foreign visitors seeking in-depth cultural experiences.
Shenzhen ports see record-high passenger traffic during summer vacation
