Time to travel to China, the land of winding walls, ancient arts, sweeping skylines and good fortune! By the way, did you know that fortune cookies didn’t originate in China? They were actually invented in San Francisco, United States!
Despite this, you’re bound to be surrounded by the ancient and modern energy of the ‘Red Dragon’ when you visit. But before you go, have you ever wondered why China is such a great tourist destination? That’s where we enter the chat. Let’s uncover the nation’s tourism numbers, the best things to do, and how to get around, whether you’re going solo or with a tour guide in China.
Overview of China's Tourism Industry
To begin with, does China have high tourism numbers, and where does China rank in tourism?
In 2023, China sat at 4th place in terms of the world’s most visited countries, currently retaining its position for 2024. The tourism industry in China also has a projected size of USD$2.61 trillion by 2025, with a forecasted GDP from tourism of 11.4% for that same year. It goes to show that yes, China is a massively hot tourist destination.
So, how many tourists visit China each year?
The numbers above can be seen in how many tourists visit China annually, so here are the number of international visitor arrivals in China for the last five years (except for 2022 due to the zero-covid policy): add the 2022 number here
- 2023: 82.03 million
- 2021: 31.98 million
- 2020: 27.47 million
- 2019: 145.41 million
- 2018: 141.2 million
China’s inbound tourism statistics, even with the dip from COVID-19, show that this nation is quite popular when it comes to tourism. Another interesting tourism fact about tourism in China is that it is one of the driving forces in the global travel industry, with more than 87 million Chinese tourists traveling abroad in 2023.
Okay, but what about who visits China the most?
In terms of tourism statistics by country, pre-pandemic data from 2018 shows that outside of Chinese-claimed territories, South Koreans visited China the most:
- South Korea: 4,193,000
- Japan: 2,691,000
- United States: 2,485,000
- Russia: 2,415,000
- Mongolia: 1,916,000
It’s important to note, however, that more than 40% of visitors to mainland China were from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, most of which are business travelers, so the total number of inbound visitors is slightly misleading.
China Tourism Quick Facts
- 82 million - The number of international visitors that made it to China in 2023.
- 4th - China’s global ranking in terms of most visited countries.
- 91/116 - China’s ranking on the English Proficiency Index (Low).
- 11.4% - The percentage that tourism in China is predicted to contribute to the nation’s GDP in 2025.
Exploring China's Top Tourist Destinations
As expected, the Great Wall of China tourism statistics show that the largest man-made project in the world is visited by over 10 million people each year, while the Forbidden City received over 19 million visitors in 2019 while Shanghai Disneyland had over 11 million visitors that same year.
From ancient marvels to modern attractions, here are some must-visit destinations for your next trip:
- Guilin: Famous for its stunning limestone karst peaks and serene rivers, Guilin’s landscape is so iconic it's featured on the 20-yuan banknote. Don’t miss the Longji rice terraces nearby.
- Chengdu: Chengdu is the place to indulge in spicy Sichuan cuisine and visit the adorable giant pandas. Explore the world’s tallest stone Buddha in nearby Leshan.
- Jiuzhaigou Valley: A remote and breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sichuan, known for its opaline lakes and snow-capped peaks. Experience local Tibetan culture and luxurious stays at Rissai Valley.
- Zhangjiajie: Famous for its towering sandstone pillars, which inspired the movie, Avatar. Visit the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and the Miaojiang Great Wall for a blend of natural beauty and history.
- Shanghai: China’s largest city offers a mix of old and new. Explore the Bund's colonial buildings, futuristic Pudong and the new Astronomy Museum. Enjoy a serene cruise on the Huangpu River.
- Yangtze River: Cruise through the majestic Three Gorges and visit ancient temples and ghost towns. Don’t miss the Crystal at Raffles City Chongqing, China’s first horizontal skyscraper.
- Dongtou: A hidden gem in Zhejiang province with dramatic rock formations, a peaceful bay and gilded temples. Explore this untouched island destination on a cruise from Shanghai to Hong Kong.
- Beijing: The capital is a must-visit for its iconic Great Wall, Forbidden City and modern attractions like the Chinese Archaeological Museum.
- The Great Wall: A must-see for any first-time visitor to China. Hike, camp, or enjoy a sunset picnic on this ancient marvel that stretches across the country.
- Xi’an: Home to the famous Terracotta Army, this ancient city is rich in history. Bike along the city’s ancient wall and explore the vibrant Muslim Street for a taste of local culture.
Why China is a Must-Visit for Global Travelers: Events
China's rich heritage, spanning over 5,000 years, is reflected in its diverse and vibrant cultural celebrations. Here are some key Chinese festivals to consider when planning your trip.
- Chinese New Year (Spring Festival): The most important festival in China, marking the start of the lunar year. It's a time for family reunions, dragon dances, firecrackers and making dumplings. This period also sees peak consumer spending as families shop for gifts, decorations and food.
- Chinese Lantern Festival: Held on the last day of the Chinese New Year celebrations, this festival features billions of colorful lanterns, drone displays and traditional performances. Locals enjoy solving lantern riddles and eating sweet yuanxiao rice balls.
- Mid-Autumn Festival (Mooncake Festival): Celebrated in September, this festival is about family gatherings, moon worship and eating moon cakes. It’s a time for lighting paper lanterns and enjoying the full moon.
- Hungry Ghost Festival: Observed in August, this festival honors deceased ancestors. It's a culturally sensitive time, with traditions focused on respecting spirits.
- National Day (Golden Week): Celebrated on October 1st, this holiday marks China's National Day with elaborate parades, fireworks and festivities. It's one of the longest holidays in China, second only to the Spring Festival.
Culinary Tourism in China: Discovering Regional Delicacies
Chinese cuisine is a rich and diverse culinary experience, far beyond the typical dishes found in your local Chinese restaurant (unless, of course, you live in China). It’s a vital part of Chinese culture, focusing on spending time with family and friends and savoring regional specialties that reflect China’s vast diversity.
The Eight Culinary Traditions: China's cuisine is divided into eight major traditions, each representing the history, agriculture and environment of their regions:
- Sichuan: Known for bold, spicy flavors.
- Hunan: Famous for hot and sour dishes.
- Shandong: Offers hearty, savory meals.
- Zhejiang: Delicate, fresh tastes.
- Fujian: Light, flavorful seafood.
- Anhui: Earthy, wild flavors.
- Cantonese: Dim sum and mild, fresh flavors.
- Jiangsu: Sweet and subtle dishes.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Kung Pao Chicken: A spicy Sichuan favorite with chicken, peanuts and chili.
- Hot Pot: A communal meal where ingredients are cooked in a simmering broth at the table, popular in Sichuan and Chongqing.
- Dim Sum: Small Cantonese dishes like dumplings, buns and rolls, perfect for sharing.
- Dumplings: Minced meat or veggies wrapped in dough, a staple across China.
- Mapo Tofu: A spicy Sichuan dish with tofu and minced meat in a rich sauce.
- Peking Duck: Beijing's famous crispy duck, often eaten with pancakes and sweet bean sauce.
- Street Kebabs: Grilled meats and seafood, a staple of Chinese street food culture.
- Fried Rice: A simple, versatile dish found throughout China, often with eggs vegetables, and meat.
- Guilin Rice Noodles: A specialty of Guilin, featuring rice noodles with a variety of toppings.
- Red Braised Pork: A rich, sweet and savory pork dish found across China.
- Twice-Cooked Pork: A Sichuan dish where pork is boiled, then stir-fried with spicy and sweet flavors.
- Jian Bing Guozi: A Tianjin breakfast favorite, featuring a crêpe with crispy fried dough.
- Sweet Taro Paste: A Fujian dessert made from taro, sugar and lard, garnished with sweet toppings.
Seasonal Trends in Chinese Tourism: Peak Months and Off-Season Insights
China's vast size means it has a wide range of climates and weather patterns, making it a diverse destination for travelers. Whether you're looking to experience the winter chill in the north or the tropical warmth in the south, planning your trip around the best seasons for each region will enhance your experience.
The country can be broadly divided into four main climate zones:
Northern China
This region experiences a temperate climate, with harsh winters and hot summers. In cities like Harbin, temperatures in winter can drop as low as -23°C, while summer temperatures can rise to nearly 30°C. The best time to visit is during the dry, mild summer months from May to September.
Central China
This area, including major tourist spots like Beijing, has a warm temperate climate with all four seasons. Summers can be very hot and humid, especially along the Yangtze River, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, offering milder temperatures and less rain.
Southern China
Known for its subtropical climate, this region has long, hot summers and short, mild winters. Cities like Chengdu and Shanghai experience high humidity and temperatures in the low 30s during the summer, with milder weather in spring and autumn. The monsoon season runs from May to October.
Western China (Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau)
This elevated plateau has an arid climate with low rainfall, often in the form of hail. Summers are warm, but winters are freezing, with temperatures in the far north dropping to -40°C. The region's unique geography creates a harsh, yet fascinating environment for adventurous travelers.
Navigating China's Transportation System
China has a highly developed transportation network, offering various options to travel between and within destinations.
Here's a breakdown of the key modes of transportation to see which best suits your travel style:
- Flights: The fastest and most convenient way to travel long distances in China, with many international airports in cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong. Flights are ideal for saving time and energy on your journey.
- High-Speed Trains: China boasts the world’s longest high-speed rail network, covering most tourist cities. High-speed trains are fast (up to 300km/h!), reliable and a popular choice for traveling between destinations like Beijing, Shanghai and Xi'an.
- Highways: For remote scenic areas, like Yuanyang Rice Terrace or Mount Everest, buses or private cars are necessary. While less comfortable than flights or trains, they offer access to breathtaking landscapes.
- River Cruises: China’s extensive waterways, including the Yangtze River, offer a unique way to travel while enjoying stunning natural scenery. Cruises are both a means of transportation and a relaxing sightseeing experience.
- Metro/Subway: Over 25 cities, including Shanghai and Beijing, have efficient metro systems. Subways are a cheap and eco-friendly way to explore urban areas and connect with major attractions and transportation hubs.
- Taxi/Ride-Sharing Apps: In China, getting around cities is easiest by taxi or ride-hailing apps. Taxis are affordable and regulated, charging by meter, however, many prefer DiDi, China’s equivalent of Uber, as it’s more convenient and cheaper. DiDi can be accessed through the Alipay app and offers full English support, with features like automatic translation for communication with drivers. Be cautious with unlicensed taxis, as they can be unreliable. Using DiDi requires an internet connection and a registered phone number, though foreign numbers may occasionally lead to cancellations by drivers.
- Navigation Apps: For navigating in China, Apple Maps is the best choice for iPhone users, offering up-to-date information and public transport options in English. Google Maps can be used with a VPN, but it lacks full functionality and accurate public transport data. Android users can combine Google Maps with MetroMan China for metro navigation. Gaode Maps (Amap), widely used in China and offering comprehensive details, is another option if you can read Chinese.
Etiquette for Tourists Visiting China
When visiting China, understanding the cultural norms and etiquette can enhance your experience. Here are some key dos and don’ts to keep in mind:
Dos:
- Expect Personal Questions: In China, questions about your salary, age and marital status are common and not considered rude.
- Bring Your Own Toilet Paper: Public restrooms often lack toilet paper, so always carry your own.
- Be Wary of Scammers: In major cities, be cautious of overly friendly strangers who might try to scam you. Trust your instincts.
- Prepare for Crowds: Pushing and shoving are common and personal space is limited, especially in queues.
Don'ts:
- Don’t Disrespect the Government: Avoid making political statements or criticizing the government, as this is taken very seriously.
- Don’t Place Chopsticks Upright in Rice: This is a symbol of death in Chinese culture, so always lay them flat.
- Don’t Disrespect Chairman Mao: Mao Zedong is revered in China, so any negative comments about him are strongly discouraged.
- Don’t Tip: Tipping is not customary in China and can be seen as disrespectful.
Safety Tips for Travelers in China
Mainland China is ranked 15th in the world for safety, sitting at 75.6 on the safety index, making it quite a safe country to visit. While there, though, do make sure you obey all local laws and also keep your valuables in a safe place. Like many countries, watch out for scams and tourist traps and keep a look-out for people trying to offer you a taxi ride, as these may be unlicensed taxi drivers trying to overcharge you.
Is China difficult for tourists?
Traveling in China can be challenging but manageable with some preparation. First, having a working phone is essential. Get an international SIM card or a local one, and make sure to install key apps like Alipay, WeChat and Didi (China's Uber). These apps are crucial since China is largely a cashless society, with most transactions done through Alipay or WeChat Pay. Fortunately, these apps now accept foreign credit cards.
If you’re finding this to be a little too overwhelming, getting a Chinese local guide who understands the lay of the land would be a great help. You can leave all the logistics to them, and they’ll help you sort out everything from hotel suggestions to language translation.
Navigating high-speed trains and tourist sites can be tricky for foreigners. Train stations often require passport scans and not all stations are equipped to handle this smoothly, so be prepared to join special lines. At tourist sites, foreigners may need to purchase tickets at specific lines, usually with a passport. While English is available at major tourist spots, it's less common in remote areas, so learning a few basic Chinese phrases or using translation apps like Google Translate can be very helpful.
The Future of Tourism in China: Predictions and Emerging Trends
China's inbound tourism is currently facing significant challenges, largely due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. While the pandemic is the primary reason for the decline, other factors are also at play.
The industry has hit a low point, with many experienced tour guides struggling or leaving the profession, and young people showing little interest in joining. Another concerning trend is the shift in the origin of inbound tourists. The number of visitors from key markets like Western countries, Japan and South Korea has significantly decreased, with these tourists having been replaced by visitors from neighboring countries like Russia, Mongolia and Vietnam, who typically spend less.
While domestic tourism in China is recovering rapidly and is expected to surpass pre-pandemic levels by 2024, the recovery of inbound tourism remains slow and uncertain.
Conclusion
Fortunes are on your side as the world is back ready to be explored! Why not consider booking your trip to China and experiencing the ancient and beautiful history of this fascinating country?
You might find it easier to do so by booking a private tour guide in China! Happy travels!
