Tongcheng Travel’s Record-Breaking Growth in China’s Tourism Sector: Profit Jump and Strategic Moves Across Major Cities Like Shanghai and Beijing, Here’s What You Need to Know About the Future

Published on November 26, 2025

In a dramatic turnaround driven by China’s rapidly evolving travel trends, Tongcheng Travel has posted an impressive 23% increase in profit, highlighting the explosive growth of the country’s tourism sector. Backed by Tencent and Trip.com, the company saw its profit soar to 985 million yuan (roughly $139 million) in the three months leading up to September 30, 2025. This remarkable growth came on the back of strong performances in ticketing and accommodation bookings, areas that are reflecting a broader shift in consumer behaviour. As China’s travel landscape undergoes a profound transformation towards more immersive and emotionally fulfilling travel experiences, Tongcheng’s growth is set to continue, with acquisitions and strategic leadership changes steering the company’s future.

Profits Soar as China’s Travel Sector Blossoms

Tongcheng Travel, one of China’s leading online travel platforms, reported a significant surge in profits for the third quarter of 2025. With a 23% year-on-year profit increase, reaching 985 million yuan from 803 million yuan, the company demonstrated its ability to capitalise on the ongoing transformation in China’s travel market. This growth was primarily driven by strong bookings in airline tickets and hotel reservations, both of which saw considerable gains, making up a major portion of the company’s 10.4% revenue increase, bringing it to 5.5 billion yuan. The tourism industry’s shifting dynamics, notably the growing consumer preference for immersive travel experiences, have become a key factor in this success.

China’s Tourism Boom Fuels Tongcheng’s Future Growth

China’s travel market is in the midst of a remarkable transformation, with travelers now seeking deeper, more meaningful experiences. According to industry experts, there is a marked shift away from traditional tourism, with an increasing emphasis on experiences that foster emotional fulfilment and personal growth. This changing demand is creating new opportunities in the industry, and Tongcheng is at the forefront of this wave. The company’s growth is aligned with the nation’s larger plans, as the upcoming five-year plan reaffirms the central role of tourism in driving both economic and social development.

As consumer trends evolve, Tongcheng’s strong performance is a clear indicator that its ability to meet new expectations in travel is propelling it toward a stronger position in the market. The company’s record bookings in accommodation further underscore its adaptability and foresight in understanding where the market is headed. Additionally, Tongcheng’s strategic acquisitions are expected to bolster its competitive advantage moving forward.

Strategic Acquisition: Wanda Hotel Management Acquisition

In a bid to expand its portfolio and diversify its sources of growth, Tongcheng made headlines with its purchase of Wanda Hotel Management for approximately $340 million. This acquisition, made just last month, is seen as a key move in bolstering the company’s position in the highly competitive hotel management market. This deal signals the company’s ambition to diversify its services and offer more than just flight and hotel bookings. Instead, Tongcheng aims to provide comprehensive travel experiences that cater to the evolving preferences of modern travelers, particularly those seeking more personalised and immersive stays.

A Leadership Change to Fuel Future Ambitions

As part of its broader strategy, Tongcheng announced a leadership change that reflects the company’s future direction. James Liang, the co-chairman and chairman of Trip.com, resigned due to personal reasons, though he will continue as a non-executive director. In his place, Jiang Hao, who was previously a non-executive director, has taken up the role of co-chairman alongside Wu Zhixiang. This leadership reshuffle, while notable, is expected to steer the company through the next phase of growth. With new leadership at the helm, Tongcheng is primed to seize the emerging opportunities in China’s travel industry and continue its profitable trajectory.

The Road Ahead for Tongcheng

Looking ahead, Tongcheng is poised to maintain its upward trajectory, thanks to its robust position in China’s booming tourism sector. With its strategic investments, acquisitions, and leadership changes, the company is well-positioned to capitalise on emerging trends in the market. In particular, its focus on creating immersive travel experiences, as well as its expanding accommodation offerings, will likely prove to be strong growth drivers in the coming months.

Moreover, as China’s tourism industry continues to recover from the effects of the pandemic, businesses like Tongcheng, with its strong brand and technological capabilities, are set to ride the wave of economic recovery and tourism growth.

Travel Tips for Exploring China’s Thriving Tourism Market

For travelers planning to visit China, the evolving landscape of the travel sector offers numerous exciting opportunities. Here are a few tips for anyone looking to explore China’s booming tourism scene:

1. Explore Local Immersive Experiences: With more emphasis on emotional fulfilment, opt for travel packages that offer deeper cultural experiences, such as heritage tours or immersive activities in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an.
2. Book Accommodations in Advance: China’s tourism market is experiencing a surge in accommodation bookings, so ensure that you reserve your hotels or local stays ahead of time to secure the best deals.
3. Use Local Travel Platforms: Leveraging services from platforms like Tongcheng and Trip.com ensures access to real-time booking options and special offers tailored to both local and international travelers.
4. Stay Updated on New Developments: China’s travel industry is continuously evolving, so stay informed about new experiences and services that cater to changing travel preferences.
5. Take Advantage of Technology: Consider using mobile apps and online platforms to easily navigate travel logistics, book tickets, and enjoy seamless travel experiences.

Key Takeaways

Tongcheng Travel’s remarkable performance in the third quarter of 2025 showcases the growing importance of China’s tourism market, driven by shifting consumer preferences and the rising demand for immersive experiences. With strategic acquisitions and leadership changes in place, the company is well-positioned to expand its reach and continue capitalising on emerging trends. As the tourism landscape in China undergoes a profound shift, companies like Tongcheng will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of travel, offering personalised experiences to meet the evolving desires of modern travelers.