China becomes major destination for global travelers

Foreign tourists pose before the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, China, September 4, 2026. /VCG Foreign tourists pose before the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, China, September 4, 2026. /VCG China has become the world's largest source of international tourists and a major destination for global travelers, according to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.In 2025, inbound tourist arrivals reached 154 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 17.1%, and the number of overseas trips made by Chinese mainland residents totaled 148 million, up 20.8% from the previous year, officials at the ministry said during a press conference on the latest developments in the country's tourism sector in Beijing on Wednesday.Looking ahead, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism said it will work with other relevant departments to further improve the inbound tourism service system and enhance convenience in areas including visa procedures, payment services, tax refunds, travel guidance, accommodation and transportation.The ministry will also introduce more inbound tourism products that combine traditional Chinese culture with modern experiences. It will continue to promote the national tourism campaign "Nihao! China" overseas, making it easier for international visitors to travel to China, more comfortable for them to stay, and more memorable for them to experience the country's development and vitality firsthand.Besides, the ministry said it attaches great importance to protecting the safety and legitimate rights of Chinese outbound travelers. It will continue to issue travel risk alerts for overseas destinations and work with relevant authorities to provide consular protection and assistance when needed.