China Becomes Top Destination for Southeast Asian Tourists with Surge in Arrivals

Published on December 30, 2025

According to Trip.com Group’s newly unveiled 2025 Southeast Asia Inbound and Outbound Tourism Trend Guide, China has seen a significant surge in tourism from Southeast Asia. The report highlights that bookings for travel to China from Southeast Asian countries have increased sharply in 2025, partially attributed to China’s facilitative visa exemption policies. The first half of 2025 showed a marked rise in Southeast Asian tourists traveling to China, with a diversified range of destinations and experiences appealing to the region’s travelers.

Increased Tourism Demand from Southeast Asia

The surge in Southeast Asian tourism to China comes at a time when both regional and global tourism markets are showing signs of recovery. Southeast Asia has become a key source of inbound tourists for China, with the region’s ease of travel, growing economic ties, and cultural exchanges contributing to the increase in bookings. The trend is reflected in the Trip.com Group’s report, which reveals that travel demand from Southeast Asia is becoming increasingly diverse, with tourists seeking not only popular cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou but also more off-the-beaten-path destinations.

China’s tourism infrastructure and major cities have long been attractive to travelers from Southeast Asia, but 2025 has seen an uptick in bookings to destinations outside of traditional hotspots. Tourists are increasingly interested in exploring China’s natural landscapes, historical towns, and cultural heritage sites in addition to the bustling urban centers. This broadening of interest reflects a diversification in the type of experiences that Southeast Asian visitors are seeking, from adventure tourism to cultural exploration.

The Role of China’s Visa Exemption Policies

A major factor driving the increase in tourism from Southeast Asia is China’s visa exemption policies, which have made it easier for visitors from several Southeast Asian countries to travel to China. These policies have played a crucial role in simplifying the travel process, eliminating the need for complicated visa applications, and making China a more accessible destination for tourists from neighboring countries.

Countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam are among the nations that benefit from China’s facilitative visa exemptions, allowing travelers to visit for short stays without the need for a visa. The convenience of this arrangement has undoubtedly encouraged more tourists from these countries to explore China’s offerings, whether for short trips or longer vacations.

The ease of travel has made China a competitive destination within the Southeast Asian region, especially as other global destinations also promote tourism. By easing visa restrictions, China has positioned itself as an attractive option for Southeast Asian travelers who seek both cultural enrichment and natural beauty within close proximity to their home countries.

Growing Interest in Diverse Chinese Destinations

Trip.com Group’s data shows that Southeast Asian travelers are becoming more adventurous in their travel choices within China. While the well-known cities of Beijing and Shanghai remain top choices for tourists, destinations such as Chengdu, Xi’an, Hangzhou, and Lijiang are gaining popularity. These cities offer a range of experiences, from exploring ancient temples and historical sites to enjoying China’s famous cuisine and tranquil natural surroundings.

For example, Chengdu, known as the home of the giant panda, has seen a rise in Southeast Asian tourist arrivals, as travelers seek to experience the wildlife and enjoy Sichuan’s famous spicy cuisine. Similarly, Xi’an, with its Terracotta Warriors and ancient city wall, has attracted history enthusiasts looking to explore China’s rich past. Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage site, appeals to travelers seeking traditional architecture, ethnic cultures, and stunning mountain views.

In addition to cultural tourism, there is a growing interest in nature and adventure tourism. Areas like Zhangjiajie, known for its towering sandstone peaks, and Jiuzhaigou, famous for its colorful lakes, are becoming increasingly popular for Southeast Asian tourists who want to experience China’s diverse landscapes.

Economic and Cultural Ties Between Southeast Asia and China

The strong economic relationships between China and Southeast Asia have further fueled this tourism surge. Trade, investment, and infrastructure projects have enhanced bilateral ties, making travel more affordable and accessible. With growing economic cooperation between China and Southeast Asian countries, there is also an increase in business tourism, with many professionals traveling between the regions for meetings, conferences, and trade fairs.

Additionally, cultural exchanges between China and Southeast Asia continue to strengthen, with increasing numbers of Southeast Asian students, professionals, and artists visiting China for educational and cultural reasons. This exchange of knowledge, culture, and art creates a lasting bond and continues to drive tourism to China.

The Future of Southeast Asian Tourism to China

The growth of Southeast Asian tourism to China is expected to continue in the coming years, with 2025 marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing tourism boom. As travel conditions improve and infrastructure further develops, China’s appeal to Southeast Asian tourists is likely to grow. The opening of new tourist routes, improved transportation options, and increased regional connectivity will continue to facilitate travel, offering even more options for visitors looking to explore China.

In addition, tourism initiatives aimed at enhancing the visitor experience, such as guided tours, tailored experiences, and multilingual services, will further contribute to the growth of Southeast Asian tourism to China. Efforts to improve sustainable tourism practices will also play a role in preserving China’s cultural and natural heritage while welcoming more visitors from the region.

Conclusion

The surge in Southeast Asian tourism to China in 2025 is a testament to the growing appeal of the country as a travel destination. Facilitated by simplified visa processes, improved connectivity, and a diverse range of experiences, China is becoming an increasingly popular destination for travelers from Southeast Asia. As tourism continues to grow, the sector will contribute significantly to both cultural exchange and economic development, reinforcing China’s role as a central hub for regional and global tourism in the years ahead.