Japan Stand United With Egypt, Thailand In The Top Chinese Travelers’ Lists – Discover Why This Holiday Season Is Different!

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A photograph of three elderly Chinese travellers

China is seeing an unprecedented rise in tourism demand for the upcoming National Day holiday from September 29 to October 12, 2025. As the holiday period extends by one additional day this year, travelers are booking their trips earlier than ever, with long-haul outbound travel becoming increasingly popular. According to the Chinese tourism services firm U-tour, the number of travelers planning to travel during the holiday has surged by an impressive 130 percent year-on-year. This growth is set to drive a boom in international travel, with popular destinations like Japan, Thailand, Egypt, Vietnam, and South Korea at the top of travelers’ lists.

Where Are Chinese Tourists Traveling During the Holiday?

As of early September 2025, Chinese travelers had already booked accommodation at over 2,800 hotels globally, showcasing the scale of the tourism boom. Some of the most sought-after destinations include Japan, Thailand, South Korea, and Vietnam, according to Qunar, a leading Beijing-based online travel agency. The growth in hotel bookings across these countries has been driven by the Belt and Road Initiative and visa-free policies implemented by several nations. Egypt, Vietnam, Uzbekistan, Cambodia, and Sweden have also recorded the highest growth rates in hotel bookings, as per Qunar data.

In addition to regional favorites in Southeast Asia, Africa has emerged as a growing interest for Chinese tourists. Countries like Kenya and Tanzania have experienced a 130 percent surge in bookings during the National Day period, marking a shift toward long-haul destinations and more in-depth travel experiences.

Why Are Chinese Travelers Choosing Long-Haul and In-Depth Destinations?

Tourism agencies have noted that the peak travel period for the National Day holiday will run from September 29 to October 12, with many office workers opting for a 12-day holiday by combining three days of leave. This extra time has encouraged more travelers to explore distant destinations, preferring in-depth cultural experiences over traditional sightseeing tours. Countries like Egypt—with its pleasant autumn weather—and Russia, offering the opportunity to see the aurora, are becoming increasingly popular among Chinese tourists seeking unique travel experiences.

Travel behavior is evolving, with Chinese travelers now opting for more personalized, immersive travel experiences rather than the standard multi-destination tours. For example, Egypt is a top choice, offering the chance to explore ancient civilizations in comfortable autumn temperatures, while Norway’s fjord landscape is especially breathtaking during the fall.

What’s Driving the Surge in Chinese Outbound Travel?

A significant factor contributing to the rise in outbound travel is the visa-free policies introduced by several countries. Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand have rolled out reciprocal visa-free policies for Chinese travelers, making it easier for Chinese tourists to visit. Additionally, countries like South Korea and Russia have also launched visa-free entry for group tours, further fueling interest in these regions.

Southeast Asia continues to be a staple destination for Chinese tourists, with Singapore and Malaysia remaining highly popular, according to Trip.com Group, China’s largest online travel agency. This year, Chinese tourists are looking to explore countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, which has increased interest in Central Asia and other emerging markets.

Who Else Is Traveling to China?

In addition to the surge in outbound travel, foreign tourists are also flocking to China during this holiday period. Popular Chinese cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Shenzhen are seeing increased demand from international visitors. According to Qunar, the top inbound markets for foreign visitors to China include countries like Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Spain, Hungary, and Saudi Arabia. This growing interest highlights the continued global appeal of China as a tourism destination.

How Are Travel Agencies Responding to the Surge?

Chinese travel agencies are preparing for the massive influx of travelers during the National Day holiday. Agencies like Qunar and Trip.com have already seen a sharp uptick in holiday bookings, with many hotels and attractions in Southeast Asia and Africa gearing up for a busy season. As travelers seek luxury accommodations, unique cultural experiences, and opportunities to explore lesser-known regions, travel agencies are responding with tailored packages and personalized itineraries to meet the growing demand.

Why Is This Surge Significant for Global Tourism?

This surge in Chinese tourism is highly significant, as it reflects a broader trend toward experiential travel and long-haul destinations. The impact is expected to ripple through the global tourism industry, with countries and regions adjusting their strategies to accommodate the rising number of Chinese visitors. Countries along the Belt and Road Initiative, along with those offering visa-free access, are poised to benefit from this new wave of interest. As the world continues to emerge from the pandemic, the Chinese tourism boom is setting the stage for a more dynamic and diverse global travel landscape in the years to come.

A Strong Future for Chinese Tourism

With rising demand, new travel preferences, and a willingness to explore farther and deeper into new regions, Chinese tourism is poised for an exciting period of growth during the National Day holiday. Destinations like Japan, Thailand, Egypt, Vietnam, and even Africa are seeing strong interest from Chinese travelers. At the same time, foreign visitors are increasingly flocking to China, creating a dynamic tourism exchange that will shape the future of global travel.