The number of Russian tourists visiting the Chinese city of Chongqing in the first quarter of 2026 increased by 67.3% compared to the same period last year, which significantly exceeds the national average growth rate (30.2%). As Lin Qian, head of the press service of the Foreign Affairs Office of the People’s Government of the city, noted, the spending of inbound tourists increased by 76.3%, which indicates not only an increase in tourist traffic but also an improvement in the quality of consumption.
The highest surge in interest from Russians was recorded during the Chinese New Year period (February 17 – March 3, 2026) — the number of air ticket bookings to China increased by 471%. Chongqing became the most popular destination. Zhangjiajie and Chengdu were also among the cities with the fastest‑growing tourist traffic. During the May Day holiday in 2026, Russia took first place among the countries that are sources of inbound tourism to China.
The increase in the number of Russian tourists is linked to the introduction of a visa‑free regime between the countries in September 2025 and the resumption of direct flights on the Chongqing–Moscow route. According to estimates by the Chinese side, this will bring an additional 10,000 Russian tourists to Chongqing in 2026. Currently, the visa‑free regime between Russia and China is in effect until the end of 2027.
