China Tourism Update — 16 June 2026

tourism • 16 June 2026

China’s latest travel news for tourists points to **strong inbound growth, easier entry, and improving visitor services**. According to **China Daily**, international visitor spending in China rose **10.5% to $135 billion in 2025**, while international arrivals climbed **15.5% to more than 68 million**, showing that the country’s tourism rebound is continuing into 2026.[1] For travelers, the most practical update is that **visa facilitation and arrival processes keep improving**. China Daily says China has expanded its **visa-free policy**, extended the duration of foreign tourists’ visits, and upgraded inbound services such as **biometric entry systems** and **digital payments**.[1] In parallel, Australia’s Smartraveller notes that visitors to China must now complete an **electronic arrival card** before entry or at the point of entry, which is useful to know even if you are only transiting through a Chinese airport.[6] Another notable travel angle is infrastructure and trip planning. China Daily reports that investment in **air connectivity** and **high-speed rail** is making more destinations easier to reach, while new attractions are broadening itinerary options beyond the biggest cities.[1] For tourists, that means China is becoming more practical for multi-city trips, especially if you want to combine major hubs with emerging destinations.

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