Murmansk: A Surprising Surge in Chinese Tourists Seeking “Lucky Children” Under the Northern Lights

Published on December 5, 2025

In the harsh, icy expanse of the Russian Arctic, an unexpected new trend has emerged. Murmansk, a port city in Russia’s far north, has emerged as an unlikely hotspot for Chinese tourists. This winter, a large number of Chinese visitors have come to the region, drawn not only by the breathtaking Arctic landscapes but also by an intriguing belief in the possibility of having “lucky children” under the Northern Lights. The influx has been fuelled by the newly implemented visa-free travel regime between Russia and China, which has reshaped the tourism landscape in this remote corner of the world.

The Russian Arctic, long known for its industrial and military importance, is currently experiencing a fascinating tourism boom, particularly in the Murmansk region. Tour operators report a significant increase in winter bookings, with many people flocking to the coastal village of Teriberka. Teriberka, located along the Barents Sea, has captivated Chinese tourists’ imaginations with its stark Arctic beauty, whale-watching tours, and, most notably, the magical allure of the aurora borealis.

A Belief Turns into a Trend

The unexpected rise in tourism to Murmansk and the Kola Peninsula can be attributed to a unique cultural belief. In China, a long-held tradition has gained significant traction on social media: the notion that conceiving a child under the Northern Lights brings lifelong good fortune. This idea has sparked a wave of interest, particularly among young couples seeking a deeper connection to the spiritual and natural world. While the origins of this belief are unclear, it has been bolstered by social media influencers and romanticised portrayals of the aurora borealis.

As a result, many Chinese visitors are drawn to Teriberka with the hope of experiencing this cosmic event in the most romantic and meaningful way possible. The stunning landscapes of the region, paired with the chance to witness the elusive Northern Lights, have created an irresistible appeal. For many, the desire to conceive under the shimmering aurora is seen as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to start their family under the most auspicious of circumstances.

Tourism Growth and Economic Impact

Recent data from Russian tourism bodies paints a promising picture for the region’s future. According to reports from the Russian Union of the Travel Industry, bookings from Chinese tourists to Murmansk have surged by an impressive 20% during the winter months. Operators predict that the demand will continue to grow, with a projected increase of 40% in bookings by 2026 if current trends hold. The introduction of the visa-free regime has given a major boost to Russia’s tourism sector, with Chinese tourists flocking to Russia in unprecedented numbers.

The Murmansk region is benefiting from this trend, with tourism operators and local businesses gearing up for a growing influx of visitors. The rise in tourism is not just a temporary spike but a reflection of broader patterns of travel between China and Russia. According to projections, the number of Chinese tourists visiting Russia could reach 500,000 by the end of 2025, with that number potentially growing to two million by 2026. This growth marks one of the most significant rebounds for any inbound tourist market since the global pandemic.

The Role of the Visa-Free Regime in Facilitating Travel

The introduction of the visa-free travel regime between Russia and China has played a crucial role in facilitating this surge in tourism. The policy, which allows Chinese citizens to visit Russia without the need for a visa, has greatly simplified travel for Chinese nationals. This development has led to an increase in online searches for flights to Russia, particularly to major cities like Moscow and Saint Petersburg, with a notable rise in searches from Urumqi, a major transport hub in western China.

However, it is the Murmansk region that has captured the attention of Chinese tourists. The area’s unique blend of cultural beliefs, natural beauty, and accessible travel has made it a standout destination. The attraction of the aurora borealis as a symbol of destiny and good fortune has given the region a rare emotional resonance, something that many other tourist destinations simply cannot replicate.

Cultural and Economic Shifts in the Russian Arctic

The arrival of large numbers of Chinese tourists in Murmansk marks a significant cultural shift for the region. Historically known for its industrial and military significance, the Russian Arctic has not been a major tourist destination. However, the recent influx of visitors has led to a reimagining of the area’s potential as a global tourism hub. The presence of thousands of Chinese tourists, many of whom are travelling to the region to experience its natural wonders, represents a new era for local communities.

For local tourism operators, the growing number of Chinese visitors presents both challenges and opportunities. Businesses are investing in new infrastructure and services to cater to the growing demand. Hotels, guides, and local businesses are adapting quickly to meet the expectations of these new visitors. The economy of Murmansk and surrounding areas is seeing a welcome boost, with tourism playing an increasingly important role in sustaining local economies.

The Future of “Lucky Children” and Arctic Tourism

It remains to be seen whether the belief in conceiving “lucky children” under the Northern Lights will continue to drive tourism in Murmansk. However, it is clear that the region’s unique combination of cultural mythology, natural beauty, and policy changes has sparked a renewed interest. As more Chinese tourists seek a life-changing experience in the Russian Arctic, the Northern Lights are emerging as a symbol of hope, destiny, and new beginnings, in addition to natural wonder.

Whether the trend continues or fades, the surge in Chinese tourism to Murmansk demonstrates how powerful cultural beliefs can be in shaping global travel trends. For the time being, the aurora borealis continues to captivate those seeking meaning and adventure in the remote wilderness of the Russian Arctic.