Trending Now: China's Social Media Highlights #12May-18May#

Italy Feels Like a Laid-Back Chinese Countryside An increasing number of Chinese tourists say visiting Italy reminds them of a “relaxed Hunan village.” According to China Trading Desk’s Travel Dashboard, 468,000 Chinese travellers are expected to visit Italy over the next six months—a year-on-year increase of 63,000. Read more

Image Source: Baidu

74-Year-Old Woman Goes on Road Trip with Online Friend Self-driving travel isn’t just for the young. A 74-year-old woman hit the road with a companion she met online—also a fellow senior. The story reflects evolving notions of freedom and companionship in later life. Read more

Inbound Tourism to China Sees Strong Momentum China’s international flight network is expanding rapidly. During the May Day holiday, inbound visits reached 1.115 million, up 43.1% year-on-year. Five new countries were added to China's international routes in just four months, with bookings to even tier-3 cities rising by 50%. Read more

Chinese Tourists in Sapporo Warned of Bear Sightings The Chinese Consulate in Sapporo urges travellers to remain alert as bear activity increases post-hibernation. Over 100 sightings have been reported in urban areas, with foragers and hikers strongly advised to take precautions. Read more

Image Source: Weibo

Staycations Redefine Urban Leisure Weekend hotel stays are becoming a popular micro-getaway among Chinese consumers. Whether enjoying a luxury suite with aromatherapy and skyline views or a quiet solo night with takeaway and films, staycations now represent a new form of self-care and slow travel. Read more

Douyin

COVID-19 Infections Resurface in China As of 17 May, outpatient COVID-19 positivity rates rose from 7.5% to 16.2%, topping flu-like case visits in clinics for the third consecutive week. Travellers with weakened immunity are encouraged to take extra care. Read more

Sunrise Destinations Trending Among Female Travellers Chinese women are increasingly drawn to scenic sunrise spots shared with friends and local beers. These moments of serenity are shaping a new, aesthetic-led travel trend. Read more

Baidu

Image Source: Baidu

China and Uzbekistan to Launch Mutual Visa-Free Policy While diplomatic passport holders already benefit from 30-day visa-free stays, group and tourist visas are also being simplified. In the first two months of 2025, Chinese tourist arrivals in Uzbekistan topped 14,000, an increase of over 50% compared to the previous year. Read more

Zhihu

Image Source: Zhihu

China to Trial Visa-Free Entry for Nations On 15 May, China’s Foreign Ministry announced it will trial visa-free entry for ordinary passport holders from Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay. From 1 June 2025 to 31 May 2026, travellers from these countries can enter China for up to 30 days for tourism, business, or family visits without a visa. Read more