Vietnam, Japan, Malaysia Experiencing A Rapid Surge of More Than Four Million Tourists from China During Lunar New Year Holiday, Here is What You Need to Know

Written By: Tuhin Sarkar

Tuhin Sarkar

Tuhin Sarkar is a Senior Journalist at Travel and Tour World with more than 10 years of experience in travel and tourism journalism. A post-graduate in Journalism and Mass Communication from Jadavpur University, he combines strong research, industry knowledge and storytelling expertise to produce engaging, insightful and impactful travel news and fascinating feature stories.

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February 3, 2025 2:03 AM

Image generated with Ai

In a dramatic shift that’s sending shockwaves through the travel industry, Chinese tourists are redefining global travel trends during the Lunar New Year. Vietnam, Japan, and Malaysia are basking in unprecedented surges of Chinese visitors, while Thailand grapples with a concerning decline.

Vietnam’s Meteoric Rise: A New Favorite Among Chinese Tourists

Vietnam has emerged as a sensational hotspot for Chinese travelers this Lunar New Year. The number of Chinese visitors booking flights to Vietnam during the holiday skyrocketed by nearly 35% compared to last year and an astonishing 70% compared to pre-Covid levels in 2019. This surge underscores Vietnam’s growing allure as a premier destination for Chinese tourists.

The country’s rich cultural tapestry, delectable cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes have captivated Chinese travelers. Cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have become bustling hubs, with international tourist arrivals in Ho Chi Minh City alone reaching nearly 87,360 during the Lunar New Year holiday, marking a 16.5% year-on-year increase. This influx has also led to a significant rise in hotel occupancy rates, which soared by 44.4% compared to the previous year.

Japan and Malaysia: The New Darlings of Chinese Tourists

Japan and Malaysia have recorded the largest increases in Chinese tourist bookings compared to last year’s holiday, with staggering growth rates of 86% and 79% respectively. Japan’s blend of modernity and tradition, coupled with a favorable exchange rate, has made it an irresistible destination. Meanwhile, Malaysia’s cultural diversity and visa-free entry policy have significantly boosted its appeal among Chinese travelers.

Thailand’s Troubling Decline: Safety Concerns Deter Chinese Visitors

In a startling turn of events, Thailand, once a beloved destination for Chinese tourists, is witnessing a decline in bookings. The recent kidnapping of Chinese actor Wang Xing at the Thai-Myanmar border has ignited safety concerns among potential visitors. Despite efforts by Thai authorities to reassure tourists, including increased security measures and public assurances from the Prime Minister, the incident has led to a 15.6% drop in bookings from China.

This decline is a significant blow to Thailand’s tourism industry, which heavily relies on Chinese visitors. The government is now grappling with the challenge of restoring confidence among Chinese tourists to reclaim its position as a favored destination.

Global Travel Trends: The Chinese Influence

The shifting preferences of Chinese tourists during the Lunar New Year are reshaping global travel trends. Destinations that offer safety, cultural richness, and favorable travel policies are reaping the benefits of this lucrative market. As the world’s largest outbound travel market, China’s tourism choices have profound implications for the global travel industry.

In conclusion, the Lunar New Year of 2025 has unveiled a seismic shift in Chinese travel patterns. Vietnam, Japan, and Malaysia have emerged as the new darlings of Chinese tourists, while Thailand faces the daunting task of overcoming safety concerns to regain its allure. The travel industry must keenly observe these trends and adapt accordingly to cater to the evolving preferences of Chinese travelers.

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