As of December 3, 2025, long lines have formed at Heihe port in Heilongjiang Province, Chinese mainland, as travelers take advantage of Russia’s new 30-day visa-free entry policy for visitors from the neighboring country. The move, announced by Moscow late last month, aims to boost tourism and strengthen cross-border ties.
Heihe sits just 700 meters from Blagoveshchensk in Russia’s Far East, with a hovercraft linking the two cities in a swift two-minute ride over the frozen Heilongjiang River. Local businesses in Blagoveshchensk have already reported an immediate uptick in foot traffic and sales, from cafes to souvenir shops.
In a reciprocal step, China rolled out a one-year trial in September granting Russian nationals 30-day visa-free access to the Chinese mainland. Together, these twin policies promise to double the flow of tourists between the two regions, offering fresh opportunities for cultural exchange and borderland entrepreneurship.
For young global citizens, tech entrepreneurs, and digital nomads, this visa-free corridor opens the door to pop-up ventures, immersive travel experiences, and real-time cultural discovery—just a hovercraft ride away.
Reference(s):
Russia welcomes Chinese tourists with 30-day visa-free entry
cgtn.com
