China Sees Summer Travel Surge Driven by Visa-Free Access and Urban Experiences
South Korea joins Japan, Vietnam, Germany, and Thailand as millions of tourists surge to China this summer, driven by visa-free entry, conveniently timed flights, and a growing appetite for trendy urban experiences. Bookings for July and August have jumped 105 percent year-on-year, reflecting a clear shift in South Korean travel preferences toward city tours, culinary adventures, and influencer-inspired makeup and styling services. Millennials and Gen Z are leading this wave, seeking vibrant shopping streets, boutique cafes, iconic landmarks like Disneyland, and unique cultural experiences, making China the most sought-after summer travel destination for South Koreans in 2026.
China’s visa waiver program for South Korean travellers, introduced in 2024, has made travel faster and simpler. Around 3.16 million South Koreans visited China in 2025, up 36.9 percent from 2024, marking the highest growth among major outbound destinations. Convenient flight schedules and affordable tickets to Shanghai and Beijing have made the country an irresistible choice for short summer getaways, enabling tourists to explore urban hotspots with ease.
