With the Lunar New Year approaching, set between January 28 and February 4, several Chinese travel agencies anticipate a notable increase in both inbound and outbound travel.

Travel Trends: Reports indicate that consumer willingness to travel is at a remarkable high, with both inbound and outbound tourism experiencing a growth trajectory.

Expert Insight: According to Yang Jingsong from the China Tourism Academy, travel to and from China is projected to rise significantly, potentially hitting record numbers. He attributes this surge to favorable visa-free policies and the release of pent-up consumer demand.

Travel Destinations: Popular destinations for Chinese tourists during the Lunar New Year are expected to include Japan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Australia, and the UK. Short-haul destinations like Hong Kong and Southeast Asia remain particularly favored due to low travel costs.

Inbound Prospects: Inbound tourism is also on track for growth, primarily due to extended visa-free stays for foreign travelers levied by new policies, which allow citizens from 54 countries to enter China without a visa for transit to a third country.

Expected Visitor Increase: Trips from foreign tourists are expected to rise by 203% year-on-year, with main sources being South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, and Japan.