Travelers from Southeast Asia can now explore China's tropical paradise Xishuangbanna visa-free for up to six days under a new policy announced Monday. The initiative targets ASEAN-member tour groups entering through designated ports in Yunnan Province, aiming to strengthen regional ties and revitalize tourism.
China’s National Immigration Administration (NIA) emphasized the move will promote 'cultural exchanges and high-quality development' in southwest China, building on the China-ASEAN comprehensive strategic partnership. Eligible groups must book through approved Chinese travel agencies and arrive via Xishuangbanna Gasa International Airport or the Mohan railway/highway ports.
The policy covers all 10 ASEAN members, including Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia. It follows China’s broader push to reopen its borders, with visa exemptions now spanning 25 countries and simplified entry for travelers from 38 others. During the 2025 Spring Festival, foreign tourist entries surged 22.9% year-on-year to 958,000 trips, per NIA data.
Xishuangbanna, famed for its rainforests and Dai ethnic culture, sits at the heart of China’s Belt and Road connectivity efforts with Southeast Asia. The region’s UNESCO-protected tea landscapes and Water-Sprinkling Festival could see a tourism boom from this ASEAN-focused pivot.
Reference(s):
China grants visa-free entry to ASEAN tour groups to Xishuangbanna
cgtn.com
