The 21 newly added ports for the visa-free transit policy are Taiyuan Wusu International Airport in Shanxi Province, Su’nan Shuofang International Airport and Yangzhou Taizhou International Airport in Jiangsu Province, Wenzhou Longwan International Airport and Yiwu Airport in Zhejiang Province, Hefei Xinqiao International Airport and Huangshan Tunxi International Airport in Anhui Province, Fuzhou Changle International Airport, Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport, and Wuyishan Airport in Fujian Province, Nanchang Changbei International Airport in Jiangxi Province, Jinan Yaoqiang International Airport, Yantai Penglai International Airport, and Weihai Dashuipo International Airport in Shandong Province, Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport in Hunan Province, Nanning Wuxu International Airport and Beihai Fucheng Airport in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Haikou Meilan International Airport and Sanya Phoenix International Airport in Hainan Province, Chengdu Tianfu International Airport in Sichuan Province, and Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport in Guizhou Province. The number of opened ports has increased from the original 39 to 60.

The fully relaxed and optimized 240-hour visa-free transit policy has further expanded the allowed areas for visa-free transit travelers. The number of provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) that can be visited under this policy has increased from the original 19 (Beijing Municipality, Tianjin Municipality, Hebei Province, Liaoning Province, Heilongjiang Province, Shanghai Municipality, Jiangsu Province, Zhejiang Province, Fujian Province, Shandong Province, Henan Province, Hubei Province, Hunan Province, Guangdong Province, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Chongqing Municipality, Sichuan Province, Yunnan Province, and Shaanxi Province) to 24 (with Shanxi Province, Anhui Province, Jiangxi Province, Hainan Province, and Guizhou Province added to the list). In the newly added five provinces, the allowed areas for visa-free transit travelers in Anhui Province, Hainan Province, and Guizhou Province include the entire province. In Shanxi Province, the areas are limited to Taiyuan and Datong, and in Jiangxi Province, the areas cover Nanchang and Jingdezhen. The areas in Fujian Province, Hubei Province, and Shaanxi Province are expanded to the entire respective provinces, and in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, the area expands to the administrative regions of Nanning, Liuzhou, Guilin, Wuzhou, Beihai, Fangchenggang, Qinzhou, Guigang, Yulin, Hezhou, Hechi, and Laibin. Foreign nationals entering China through the visa-free transit policy can make cross-province travels within the allowed areas for visa-free transit travelers in these 24 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities).

According to an NIA official, the recent relaxation and optimization of the visa-free transit policy is a significant step taken by NIA in line with its commitment to thoroughly learning and implementing the instructions from the Central Economic Work Conference, aiming to proactively serve and promote a high-standard opening up while facilitating the exchanges between Chinese and foreign nationals. This initiative is beneficial for accelerating cross-border flows of people, promoting international communication and cooperation, and injecting new momentum into the high-quality development of the economy and society. Going forward, the NIA will continue to deepen the institutional openness of immigration management, continually optimize and improve the policies facilitating entry and exit for immigrants, and enhance the convenience for foreign nationals to study, work, and live in China. NIA invites more foreign friends to come to China and experience the beauty of the country in this new era firsthand.

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The Spring Festival, also known as the Chinese New Year, is one of the most important traditional festivals in China. It has a history spanning thousands of years, rich with cultural practices, rituals, and symbols. During the celebration, people engage in various customs, including family reunions, special festive meals, ancestor worship, dragon and lion dances, and setting off fireworks. The festival is celebrated with joy and harmony, emphasizing values of unity, prosperity, and good fortune for the coming year.

In addition to being celebrated in China, the Spring Festival has become a significant event for Chinese communities around the world, transcending national borders. Each year, millions of people participate in public and private celebrations, not only in China but also in countries across Asia and beyond, reflecting the growing global spread of this cultural tradition.

The decision to inscribe the Spring Festival on the Intangible Cultural Heritage List highlights the international community’s respect for and recognition of China’s rich cultural heritage. It also strengthens efforts to protect and preserve this vital cultural practice. UNESCO’s recognition of the Spring Festival will serve as an international platform for cultural exchange and the promotion of global awareness about this traditional celebration.

The cultural value of the Spring Festival extends beyond the festive activities themselves. It embodies the deep meaning of family reunions, cultural continuity, and social cohesion. As globalization continues to progress, more and more people, regardless of their cultural background, are participating in the celebrations. The Spring Festival has grown into a global cultural event, uniting people from all walks of life in a shared appreciation of Chinese traditions.

UNESCO’s decision underscores the importance of safeguarding intangible cultural heritage in today’s interconnected world. It also presents new opportunities for promoting cross-cultural dialogue and mutual understanding. Through this recognition, the Spring Festival will continue to play a vital role in fostering cultural diversity and enriching the shared heritage of humanity.

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Starting November 30, 2024, through December 31, 2025, citizens holding ordinary passports from Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia, and Japan will enjoy visa-free entry into China on a trial basis.

In a further stride toward accessibility, China will also expand the scope of visa-free entry to include exchange visits, in addition to current purposes such as business, tourism, and family reunions. Moreover, the permitted visa-free stay duration will double from 15 days to 30 days, offering travelers more time to explore, connect, and collaborate.

From November 30, 2024, travelers from the above nine countries, along with citizens of the 38 countries already on China’s visa-free list, can enter China for business, sightseeing, family visits, exchange programs, or transits of up to 30 days, without the hassle of applying for a visa.

This initiative underscores China’s commitment to building stronger ties and promoting cultural, economic, and personal exchanges on a global scale. Whether for business opportunities, unforgettable travel experiences, or meaningful connections, China is now more open than ever.

A warm welcome awaits you—come and experience the diversity, charm, and dynamism of China!

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For those who do not meet the visa-free criteria, obtaining a visa before entry remains a requirement.

This new initiative builds on China’s previous agreements with 24 countries that enjoy full visa exemption, along with 16 countries that have specific visa-free entry policies. Furthermore, travelers from 54 nations can take advantage of 72-hour or 144-hour visa-free transit options. As the entry process for foreign visitors continues to streamline and improve, China’s appeal as a travel destination grows stronger, inviting more explorers to experience its rich culture and vibrant landscapes.

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The “Nature Cities” platform is an online interactive platform established under a collaborative initiative framework promoted by various organizations, including the Eco-city Local Sustainable Development Association, the International Union for Conservation of Nature, The Nature Conservancy, the World Wildlife Fund, and the United Nations Environment Program. It serves as the world’s largest platform for sharing knowledge and case studies on urban and local biodiversity conservation, providing rich guides, tools, and case studies to help cities reassess their relationship with nature, achieving mutual coexistence and prosperity.

During the COP15 in 2022, six Chinese cities—Kunming, Chengdu, Huzhou, Nanyang, Jiaxing, and Shenzhen—were the first to join this platform. Guilin is the first city in Guangxi to be selected for the “Nature Cities” platform.

Guangxi is recognized as one of the 25 global biodiversity hotspots, ranking third in the country for biodiversity richness. Guilin is a crucial part of Guangxi’s biodiversity conservation efforts, with 638 known terrestrial wild vertebrate species and 3,120 species of wild vascular plants. The city has established 32 nature reserves covering an area of 624,100 hectares.

In recent years, Guilin has firmly committed to protecting its stunning landscapes, striving to transform the Li River into a model for integrated river management in China and a world-class example of ecological protection, providing a “Guilin experience” that can be referenced and promoted globally.

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With the release of the domestic game “Black Myth: Wukong,” the trend of “Traveling Shanxi with Wukong” continues to soar. Data from Tongcheng Travel shows that during the Mid-Autumn Festival, bookings for attractions in Shanxi Province surged by 135% compared to last year, with significant increases in cities like Taiyuan, Linfen, Datong, and Yuncheng. Popular destinations such as Jin Ci Museum, Guangsheng Temple, Yungang Grottoes, and Hanging Temple have become top favorites among tourists.

The Mid-Autumn holiday saw a bustling cultural and tourism market in Shanxi, with attractions rolling out a variety of activities to welcome visitors. Local tourism departments implemented numerous convenience measures to ensure a delightful travel experience for all.

During the festival, the Jincheng Huangcheng Xiangfu scenic area offered free and half-price admissions for “Destined Ones.” Visitors could gain access for free or at a discount by presenting their ID, game purchase records from “Black Myth: Wukong,” or game completion screenshots, attracting many gaming enthusiasts to check in at the scenic area. Throughout the day, non-heritage performances, immersive storytelling, and local folk shows created a festive atmosphere of reunion and celebration for visitors.

At Qiao’s Compound, the “Qiao Courtyard Stamp Collection” activity was a hit among young tourists. Participants collected stamps while touring, entering a lucky draw for prizes such as the “Black Myth: Wukong” Ruyi Golden Cudgel, WeGame activation codes, and traditional Shanxi treats like hollow mooncakes and aged vinegar. Tourists also engaged in activities like marriage customs performances, riddle games, DIY rabbit figurine crafts, and a traditional performance showcasing Qitai Yangge, Jin opera, and folk songs, adding a sense of ceremony to their travel experience.

This year, the Jin Ci Museum’s National Style Cultural Festival coincided perfectly with the Mid-Autumn Festival. Activities like immersive “Journey to the West” tours, situational performances, poetry reading sessions, and cultural shows invited visitors into a rich experience. The iconic four protagonists from “Journey to the West” interacted with guests daily in the museum, while a themed photography spot from the 1986 adaptation drew crowds, enriching the experience with a blend of history and modernity.

The Zhangbi Ancient Castle introduced a traditional yet trendy Mid-Autumn garden party, attracting many foreign visitors to sit at long tables alongside Chinese tourists for a “Long Table Tea and Flower Banquet.” Rows of long tables filled with various traditional snacks and flowers created a lively atmosphere where hundreds gathered to enjoy tea, admire flowers, and savor delicious food. Performances of Hanfu parades, suona music, and traditional Mid-Autumn experiences like lantern lighting and moon worship enriched the festivities. Huang Kangjian, the scenic area’s PR manager, expressed, “We hope activities like the Long Table Tea and Flower Banquet will allow tourists to savor authentic traditional cuisine and appreciate the profound essence and unique charm of Chinese culture. Throughout the day, we offer various themed events to enhance visitors’ experiences.”

Amidst the excitement of “Traveling Shanxi with Wukong,” authentic Shanxi cuisine and traditional Jin-style residences have captured tourists’ attention. In Pingyao Ancient Town, traditional Shanxi dishes like Stir-Fried Tofu, Hunyuan Cold Noodles, and Guoyou Meat are extremely popular. Some restaurants have creatively integrated cultural themes into their menus, such as the Tianyuan Northern Wei Family Feast, which features favorites like smoked pork hocks, Hu Bing, and Pingcheng roast chicken, all within a setting that evokes a traditional Jin-style residence, making many visitors feel as though they’ve stepped back in time.

To prepare for the holiday rush, tourism departments and attractions across Shanxi made extensive preparations in advance. In Datong’s Yungang District, to accommodate the sudden influx of visitors, over 3,000 parking spots were organized in public areas such as Jinhua Palace Middle School and Xiaozhan Village, ensuring ample parking for guests. Emergency shuttle points were set up in Xiaozhan Village, the main access route to the Yungang Grottoes, providing quick transfers to enhance visitors’ experiences. Shou City’s Chongfu Temple offered free hot water, charging stations, and storage for small items. From September 1 to October 31, a limited number of 200 travel documents and 400 themed postcards were distributed daily to meet tourist demand. Meanwhile, the Muta Scenic Area in Yuncheng launched a “Real-life Wukong’s Journey through the Millennia” event featuring themed checkpoints, time-travel dialogues, and gathering of “Destined Ones,” encouraging visitors to slow down and extend their stay.

According to a travel summary released by Ctrip on September 17 regarding the 2024 Mid-Autumn holiday, the popularity of Shanxi ancient architecture tours is striking. Tourism orders in Datong, Xinzhou, and Shuozhou increased by nearly 40% compared to the Dragon Boat Festival, with young people emerging as the driving force behind visits to various popular attractions in Shanxi.

The enthusiasm for Shanxi ancient architecture tours continues unabated. On social media, many users have shared, “’Traveling Shanxi with Wukong’ is so hot right now! We’ve already bought our train tickets for a family trip to Shanxi during National Day!” and “I can’t wait to taste Shanxi cuisine, experience its culture, and admire its ancient architecture. This year, I must visit Shanxi!”

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The event was celebrated with great fanfare at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), where United Airlines and airport executives gathered to mark the occasion. Passengers were treated to thoughtfully curated special gifts, and a live cultural performance by a Chinese actor added a vibrant touch to the festivities.

United Airlines announced that the Los Angeles-Shanghai route will initially operate four times a week. Flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to Shanghai (PVG, UA198) will depart on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, while flights from Shanghai (PVG) to Los Angeles (LAX, UA199) will take off on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. By the end of October, the frequency will increase to a daily service.

The COVID-19 pandemic had severely restricted flights between the United States and China, leading to United Airlines suspending its nonstop Los Angeles-Shanghai flights in February 2020.

Following China’s decision to lift quarantine requirements for inbound travelers in early 2023, international flights experienced a surge in demand, with many routes returning to pre-pandemic levels. However, the resumption of flights between the U.S. and China has been slower, hampered by ongoing air rights negotiations and route complications arising from U.S. sanctions on Russia.

In February of this year, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced that starting March 31, it would permit Chinese airlines to increase their weekly round-trip flights to the U.S. to 50. Under the principle of reciprocity, the total number of direct flights between the two countries will reach 100 per week, about one-third of pre-pandemic levels. United Airlines also announced at that time that it would resume its Los Angeles-Shanghai service in August.

Currently, the 50 flight slots allocated to U.S. airlines for routes to and from China are not fully utilized. United Airlines leads in the number of direct flights between the U.S. and China. Once the Los Angeles-Shanghai route returns to daily service as planned, and combined with the San Francisco-Shanghai and San Francisco-Beijing routes, the airline will operate 21 direct flights between the U.S. and China each week.

As for the other two U.S. carriers, Delta Air Lines operates 14 weekly flights, offering daily service between Detroit and Shanghai, as well as between Seattle and Shanghai. However, Delta’s Los Angeles-Shanghai route has yet to resume. American Airlines currently operates seven weekly flights between Dallas and Shanghai.

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The game, Black Myth: Wukong, is an action-packed role-playing masterpiece developed by Shenzhen-based Game Science. Drawing inspiration from the vast and intricate world of Chinese mythology, the game is deeply rooted in the 16th-century epic Journey to the West, one of the four great pillars of Chinese literature. With its infusion of traditional Chinese cultural elements, Black Myth: Wukong offers players a mesmerizing journey into the heart of Chinese imagination and landscapes.

Already dominating sales charts on multiple platforms, including Steam and WeGame, Black Myth: Wukong marks a significant milestone in the world of Chinese Triple-A games—those high-budget, high-profile titles produced and distributed by major, renowned publishers.

The story picks up after the legendary Tang Monk and his disciples successfully retrieve the sacred Buddhist scriptures. The indomitable Monkey King, Sun Wukong, has since been enshrined as the Fighting Buddha, but has mysteriously faded into legend. Players, stepping into the role of the Destined One, embark on an epic quest to unravel the truth behind this fabled tale.

Black Myth: Wukong masterfully crafts a breathtaking dreamscape filled with iconic Chinese scenery—rugged mountains, ancient pathways, pavilions nestled among serene waters, desolate deserts, and timeworn temples. This ethereal vision draws heavily from the beloved 1986 television series Journey to the West and film director Stephen Chow’s cinematic rendition, A Chinese Odyssey.

The game’s cast of minor demons, demon kings, gods, and Buddhas are all steeped in Chinese aesthetics, creating a modern, visual compendium of mythical creatures that echoes the ancient Classic of Mountains and Seas, a cornerstone of Chinese mythology.

Adding to its rich cultural tapestry, the game features traditional Chinese instruments such as the guzheng, bowls, wooden clappers, and gongs, with much of the soundtrack composed using traditional Chinese chord structures.

With its blend of ancient dialogue and a worldview that harmonizes Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism, players are invited to immerse themselves in a world where even the simplest act—like wandering aimlessly or sitting alone by a cold river—becomes a uniquely profound experience.

The game doesn’t just focus on action but also emphasizes the cultural and philosophical underpinnings of the source material. It features traditional Chinese instruments, ancient dialogue infused with Confucian, Buddhist, and Taoist ideologies, and an environment that mirrors the spiritual journey of the characters. The game’s world is designed to evoke a sense of serenity and contemplation, offering players a unique experience that goes beyond typical gaming narratives.

Black Myth: Wukong is more than just a game; it’s a cultural phenomenon that bridges the gap between traditional Chinese stories and modern gaming. By weaving together elements of mythology, literature, and state-of-the-art technology, the game offers players a deeply immersive experience that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. As players journey through the game, they are not just playing a character—they are stepping into a world that celebrates the rich heritage of Chinese storytelling.

Journey to the West is a cornerstone of Chinese mythology, chronicling the epic journey to the Western Heaven to obtain sacred Buddhist scriptures. At its heart is the monk Xuanzang and his four loyal disciples: Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, Sha Wujing, and the Jade Dragon Crown Prince. Throughout their perilous journey, these brave disciples shielded their master from countless monsters and disasters. After enduring 81 trials, they finally reached their sacred destination. This legendary novel was penned by Wu Cheng’en in his later years and published in 1592.

As the most renowned mythological tale in China, Journey to the West was inspired by real historical events. A Buddhist monk named Xuanzang embarked on a grueling pilgrimage, trekking over 10,000 kilometers through harsh deserts to reach India and obtain the holy Buddhist sutras. His first disciple, Sun Wukong, is a monkey endowed with immense magical powers—a righteous and courageous hero capable of 72 transformations. Unlike conventional heroes, Sun Wukong defies tradition, championing the cause of freedom with his signature battle cry: “Hey, I’m coming!” Together with Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing, he vanquished formidable demons and ensured Xuanzang’s mission was fulfilled. Their pilgrimage embodies the disciplined essence of Buddhism, with Journey to the West imparting timeless lessons on self-discipline and the triumph over adversity. This masterpiece has left an indelible mark on the Chinese spirit.

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According to the latest tourism data, inbound travel orders in China have doubled compared to the same period last year. For tourists from 14 countries, including France, Italy, Germany, and Thailand, who can now enter visa-free, the number of inbound travel orders has surged by 1.5 times. In recent days, despite the sweltering outdoor temperatures, the bustling Urumqi International Grand Bazaar in Xinjiang has been a magnet for foreign tourists, who come to shop and savor the region’s unique culinary delights.

But it’s not just Urumqi that’s capturing hearts. From the ancient city of Kashgar in southern Xinjiang to the majestic mountains and sprawling grasslands of northern Xinjiang, the region’s rich cultural tapestry and unparalleled natural beauty have won the admiration of countless foreign visitors. Meanwhile, as of late July, the introduction of a 144-hour visa-free entry policy for foreign tour groups from Hong Kong and Macau to Hainan has set the island’s inbound tourism market ablaze. On the shores of Haikou’s Xixiu Beach, a study tour group from the United Kingdom is eagerly learning the ropes of sailing and windsurfing.

China’s 144-hour visa-free transit policy now covers 37 ports of entry and 54 countries, with multiple visa-free transit options and streamlined customs procedures making it easier than ever for foreign tourists to explore China.

This summer, in addition to traditional group tours, there is a noticeable trend towards more independent travel, with the popularity of customized itineraries on the rise. Beyond the iconic landmarks of Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xi’an, and Guilin, foreign tourists are increasingly hopping on high-speed trains, eager to explore small towns, wander through trendy local markets, and dive deep into China’s diverse and multifaceted beauty.

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