Hainan and Beyond: Russian Tourism to China Hits New Heights

Published on November 22, 2025

The onset of visa-free travel for Russians starting September 15, 2025, has demonstrated a growth of travel Russians take to China, the entry policy advocates increase travel to China for Russians and increase supply and demand for travel, lodgings, and trips entrepreneurs. The People’s Daily Online cites Russians traveling to China in numbers strip surplus of 2 million in 2025 end of the year, cross international tourism between the two nations is expected to grow substantially.

Visa-Free Travel Fuels Explosive Growth in Russian Tourism to China

The new visa-free policy, which has been in effect for just a few months, has already had a significant impact on tourism between Russia and China. In the months of September and October, the number of Russian tourists traveling to China increased by approximately 40%, with demand for flights and hotel accommodations doubling. Additionally, interest in group tours has surged by more than 60%, further highlighting the growing popularity of China as a travel destination for Russian nationals.

A key factor driving this increase is that 98.3% of all visa-free entries are for leisure purposes, indicating that Russian travelers are largely visiting China for vacation or tourism-related activities. This shift is expected to continue throughout the year, with the number of Russian tourists projected to surpass two million by the end of 2025.

Hainan: The Top Destination for Russian Tourists

Hainan Province, known for its tropical climate and pristine beaches, remains the top destination for Russian tourists visiting China. According to forecasts, Hainan is expected to receive around 500,000 Russian visitors by the end of 2025, making it the largest single destination for Russian travelers. The province’s popularity can be attributed to its appeal as a holiday destination, offering sun-soaked beaches, luxury resorts, and unique cultural experiences that resonate with Russian tourists.

In addition to Hainan, other destinations in China are also seeing a rise in Russian visitor numbers. Cities like Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shanghai are becoming increasingly popular among Russian tourists, with travelers seeking to explore China’s rich cultural heritage, modern cities, and iconic landmarks. Henan Province, home to the famous Shaolin Monastery, is also emerging as a key destination, attracting tourists interested in Chinese history, martial arts, and Buddhist culture.

Boost in Group Tours and Organised Travel

Another noteworthy trend is the rise in demand for organized group tours. According to tourism industry representatives, interest in group travel has increased by over 60%, reflecting a growing preference among Russian tourists for guided experiences. This increase in demand for tours is likely linked to the visa-free policy, which has simplified travel logistics and encouraged more tourists to explore China with the help of expert guides.

Group tours are an ideal way for Russian travelers to experience China’s diverse offerings in a more structured and accessible manner. From cultural excursions in Beijing to nature explorations in Hainan, organized tours provide an all-in-one solution for those seeking to make the most of their visit to China. This rise in group travel is expected to continue to play a major role in driving tourism to China, with tour operators and local businesses benefiting from the increased visitor flows.

Economic Impact: Boosting the Tourism and Hospitality Sectors

The influx of Russian tourists has provided a significant boost to China’s tourism and hospitality industries. Hotels, airlines, and tour operators are seeing higher occupancy rates and increased bookings, especially during peak travel seasons. The surge in demand for services is driving revenue growth in the tourism sector, while also creating new jobs and business opportunities in regions popular with Russian tourists.

The visa-free policy has also led to improved connectivity between Russia and China, with more direct flights between major cities in both countries. This has made travel to China more convenient and accessible for Russian tourists, further facilitating the growth of cross-border tourism. As the number of Russian visitors continues to rise, both China and Russia are likely to benefit from this increased bilateral tourism activity, with broader economic implications for local economies in both countries.

Strengthening People-to-People Exchanges

Beyond the economic benefits, the visa-free policy is also helping to strengthen people-to-people exchanges between Russia and China. By removing the barriers posed by visa applications, the two countries are fostering closer cultural and social ties, enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation. As Russian tourists explore China’s cultural landmarks, engage with local communities, and immerse themselves in the country’s traditions, they are contributing to a deeper cultural exchange.

This surge in tourism aligns with broader efforts by China to expand its tourism offerings and build stronger diplomatic relationships within the BRICS group of emerging economies. The easing of travel restrictions for Russian citizens is part of a larger trend in which countries are increasingly adopting policies that encourage more seamless travel and exchanges, ultimately contributing to regional integration and collaboration.

Sustainability and Responsible Tourism in the BRICS Framework

As part of its broader tourism strategy, China has been working to ensure that the growing influx of tourists is managed in a sustainable way. This focus on responsible tourism is aligned with the BRICS group’s efforts to promote environmental protection and sustainable travel practices. Countries like Egypt, Iran, and the UAE have similarly introduced measures to facilitate travel while ensuring that tourism growth is balanced with conservation efforts.

In the case of China, the expansion of visa-free travel for Russian nationals is being integrated with efforts to protect the country’s natural and cultural heritage. Sustainable tourism initiatives, such as eco-friendly accommodations, responsible wildlife tourism, and the promotion of low-impact travel, are helping to ensure that the growth in tourism does not come at the expense of China’s environment or resources.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Russian Tourism in China

The visa-free policy that allows Russian nationals to travel to China continues to have positive impact for the cross border travel for China and Russia and across the border for the foreseeable future. The increase Tourism from Russia, which is estimated at over 2 million by end of the year, will also have positive impacts for both countries. The group travel, flight and accommodations booked also provide positive economic impacts for China, especially in the Tourism and Hospitality industries, as well as build positive relationships and foster cultural exchange for both nations. The future of bilateral tourism looks positive between the two nations.