Thailand’s Travel Boom to China: Exploring New Destinations Beyond Traditional Hotspots

Published on December 30, 2025

Thailand’s tourism sector is seeing a sharp increase in outbound travel to China, particularly to cities like Chongqing and Chengdu, with projections suggesting over 2 million Thai visitors in 2025. The surge is being driven by a combination of factors, including a stronger Thai baht, visa-free entry policies, and affordable travel packages, all of which make China an attractive destination for Thai travelers. This growth in international travel is expected to contribute significantly to the tourism industries of both China and Thailand.

The Factors Driving Thai Tourism to China

A stronger Thai baht has improved the purchasing power of Thai tourists, making international travel more accessible. For many, China’s lower costs for flights and accommodations, especially in cities like Chongqing and Chengdu, offer great value for money. The introduction of visa-free entry for Thai passport holders has further boosted this trend, removing the bureaucratic hurdles that sometimes discourage travel to distant destinations. With the combined effect of favorable exchange rates and simplified entry procedures, Thailand’s outbound tourism market has been increasingly shifting toward China.

The growing number of affordable travel packages, often featuring low-cost flights and group tours, is also helping fuel the surge. These packages make it easier for Thai tourists to explore China’s top cities and regions, with all-inclusive deals covering accommodation, transportation, and guided tours of popular attractions. As the demand for organized tours to China grows, travel agencies in Thailand have ramped up their offerings, targeting various segments of the market, from cultural enthusiasts to adventure seekers.

Popular Destinations: Chongqing and Chengdu

Chongqing and Chengdu, two of the most vibrant cities in southwestern China, have emerged as major hubs for Thai travelers. These cities are drawing increasing numbers of Thai tourists, thanks to their unique attractions, rich cultural history, and relatively low-cost tourism infrastructure. Both cities offer a mix of modern urban experiences and traditional Chinese culture, making them attractive options for visitors seeking to explore beyond China’s more traditional tourist destinations like Beijing and Shanghai.

Chengdu, famously known as the home of the giant panda, is a key draw for tourists, particularly for families and wildlife enthusiasts. The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is one of the top attractions, where visitors can see and interact with these beloved animals. Additionally, Chengdu’s renowned cuisine, including the famous Sichuan hot pot, attracts food lovers from around the world. The city’s combination of culture, history, and culinary delights makes it a must-visit for Thai tourists looking to immerse themselves in authentic Chinese experiences.

Chongqing, another rising star in Chinese tourism, offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, modern architecture, and rich history. Famous for its hotpot cuisine and spectacular night-time views along the Yangtze River, Chongqing has become a hotspot for those looking to experience a less-commercialized side of China. The city is also the gateway to the Three Gorges region, an area renowned for its dramatic landscapes and river cruises, which are increasingly popular among international travelers.

Thailand’s Growing Interest in Chinese Travel

Thailand’s growing interest in China as a travel destination reflects the broader trend of Southeast Asia’s increasing tourism to China. Thailand, in particular, has strong cultural, economic, and diplomatic ties with China, which has made it one of the largest sources of international tourists to China. As Chinese outbound tourism continues to grow, Thailand’s connections with Chinese cities have become more vital, with growing numbers of Thai citizens seeking to explore China’s rich cultural, historical, and natural offerings.

The rise in Thai visitors to China is also a result of concerted efforts by both governments to promote tourism. Chinese tourism authorities have been actively working with Thai counterparts to increase the flow of tourists between the two countries. Special promotions, joint marketing campaigns, and participation in travel trade events have all contributed to enhancing the profile of China as a top destination for Thai tourists.

Economic and Cultural Impact on Both Countries

The surge in Thai tourism to China is expected to have positive economic effects on both countries. For China, the influx of visitors from Thailand represents a growing market for its tourism industry, particularly in terms of cultural tourism and regional travel. The increase in visitors from Thailand also supports local economies in cities like Chengdu and Chongqing, where tourism plays a key role in the economic growth of the region.

In Thailand, the growing number of tourists returning from China strengthens the country’s ties with its northern neighbor and enhances the tourism experience for Thai travelers. With more Thai nationals visiting China, opportunities for cultural exchange and cooperation between the two countries increase, further boosting mutual understanding and collaboration.

Future Projections for Thai Travel to China

Looking ahead, the upward trend in Thai tourism to China is expected to continue, with travel agencies and tourism operators forecasting strong demand for trips to China in 2025 and beyond. The Chinese government’s focus on improving infrastructure, increasing flight options, and promoting cultural and regional tourism is expected to contribute to even greater numbers of Thai tourists visiting China.

As the tourism market continues to evolve, more tailored packages and special promotions will be developed to attract specific segments of the Thai market, such as family groups, young travelers, and senior tourists. With the continued support of both governments and an expanding range of travel options, it is expected that the number of Thai visitors to China will only increase, making it one of the top destinations for outbound Thai tourism.

Conclusion

The sharp rise in Thai tourists visiting China, particularly to cities like Chongqing and Chengdu, reflects the growing appeal of China as a travel destination for Southeast Asians. The combination of favorable exchange rates, visa-free entry, and affordable travel options has made China an attractive option for Thai travelers seeking cultural experiences, adventure, and relaxation. As Thailand’s outbound tourism market continues to grow, China is set to remain a key destination, offering diverse and rich travel experiences for tourists from Thailand and the broader Southeast Asian region.