Beijing Reports Record Surge in Foreign Tourism as of April 26

tourism • 27 April 2026

**Beijing Reports Record Surge in Foreign Tourism as of April 26** Xinhua reports that Beijing has seen over 2.28 million exits and entries by foreign nationals so far in 2026, a 34% increase from the same period in 2025, with total border crossings exceeding 7 million, up 13% year-on-year. More than 70% of these foreign arrivals—about 828,000—entered under visa-free or temporary entry permit policies, fueled by China's expanded unilateral visa-free access for 50 countries and 240-hour transit visa-free for 55 countries. To accommodate the boom, Beijing ports now offer one-stop services for permits, streamlined inspections, and on-site guidance for first-time visitors, making entry smoother for American travelers planning trips to the capital. **China's Reputation for Safety Draws Global Praise from Tourists** A growing sense of safety is enhancing China's appeal, as noted in Xinhua and China Daily coverage from April 26. Foreign visitors highlight well-lit streets, vibrant night markets, and everyday trust—like unattended deliveries—in social media under #ChinaTravel, with travelers like Canadian Dave Mani calling it one of the world's top three safest destinations after visiting 55 countries. This perception aligns with Gallup's 2025 Global Safety Report ranking China highly for public safety, supported by efficient governance and low crime rates, offering American tourists confidence for late-night explorations in cities like Shanghai and Beijing. **Practical Tips for Seamless Visa-Free Travel** Global Times confirms that first-quarter 2026 visa-free entries rose nearly 30% year-on-year, with policies now covering 48 countries for unilateral access as of late 2025—check if the U.S. qualifies via transit routes for easy planning. Download mobile apps for navigation, high-speed rail bookings, and arrival cards to integrate effortlessly into China's modern-ancient blend, from historic sites to urban adventures. These updates position China as an accessible, secure hotspot for immersive trips.

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