As China upgrades its visa – free transit policy, cities like Qingdao are emerging as prime destinations for short – haul travel from South Korea and Japan. Since December 17 last year, 54 nationalities eligible for transit visa – exemption now enjoy extended stays of up to 240 hours, driving a tourism boom that has carried into 2025.
In Qingdao’s newly opened GT PLAZA mall, South Korean tourist Shin Kyung – jun posed outside a网红 (online – famous) restaurant. “Learning about the visa – free policy online made traveling to China so convenient. This is my first time in Qingdao, and I hope to visit Beijing and Shanghai next,” he said. The city’s coastal charm has made it a top weekend getaway for East Asian travelers, with its historic Zhongshan Road district drawing young foreign visitors to spots like Silver Fish Lane.
At Hani Windmill Ice Cream & Cake Shop, Japanese tourist An Huizi sampled ice cream flavors inspired by “Qingdao old tofu” and “Laoshan snake grass water.” “I wanted to try local specialties—these tastes are completely new and amazing,” she noted. Nearby, staff at Fufuland Soufflé have undergone basic English training to cater to foreign guests, with manager Zhang Shuai explaining they now recommend signature items based on international feedback.
Supporting this tourism surge is enhanced infrastructure. Since last May, Zhongshan Road’s “Shangjieli” district has operated as a payment – friendly hub for foreign visitors, with over 200 merchants accepting international cards, digital wallets, and even CBDC. ATMs within 500 meters offer foreign currency withdrawals, and banks provide express services for currency exchange.
Luxury hotels are also adapting: The Regent Hotel, Shandong’s first international five – star, employs Japanese and Korean – speaking staff and offers regional snacks like Tsingtao Beer and instant noodles. At Haitian Hotel, Japanese and Korean guest rates have tripled year – on – year, with joint promotions alongside local attractions like Tsutaya Books and Cloud Sea Sky Observation Deck. “Partnering with global booking platforms and launching weekend packages has streamlined reservations for international travelers,” said marketing director Wang Fangjian.
As Qingdao demonstrates, strategic policy adjustments and localized services are positioning China to capitalize on growing outbound demand from its East Asian neighbors.
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