Russian and Thai Destinations See Massive Growth Among Chinese Tourists During the Extended Lunar New Year Break, Leaving Japan Behind – What You Should Know for Your Upcoming Vacation - Travel And Tour World
Home » THAILAND » Russian and Thai Destinations See Massive Growth Among Chinese Tourists During the Extended Lunar New Year Break, Leaving Japan Behind – What You Should Know for Your Upcoming Vacation Image generated with AiAs the Lunar New Year celebrations extend into a nine-day holiday this year, Chinese travelers are setting their sights on destinations far beyond their homeland. The popularity of destinations like Russia and Thailand has surged, especially with the added time off, surpassing Japan which has traditionally been a go-to option for many. Despite the typical bustling travel rush, this year’s extended break has spurred greater international interest, with countries such as Russia, Australia, and South Korea seeing significant upticks in bookings. Japan‘s appeal, however, has declined amid growing political tensions, leading to a drop in flight bookings and travel cancellations. This shift in preferences is reshaping the global tourism landscape, presenting both challenges and opportunities for destinations vying for Chinese travelers’ attention.Russia and Thailand Gain Traction as Chinese Tourist FavoritesThe long-awaited Lunar New Year holiday has been a boon for international tourism, particularly for countries that offer warm weather, scenic beauty, and unique experiences. Thailand has once again emerged as a top outbound destination for Chinese travelers. The island nation’s tropical climate is a sharp contrast to the cold winter sweeping much of China, making it an ideal escape for those seeking warmth and relaxation. Thailand’s cultural richness, coupled with its proximity, continues to attract visitors year after year, and 2026 is no different.Similarly, Russia has seen a remarkable rise in popularity, especially following the country’s decision to waive visa requirements for Chinese tourists in December. This has boosted Moscow and other Russian cities as viable destinations for both short getaways and long-haul trips. While Russia was once considered a niche destination, it is now capturing the attention of travelers looking for a blend of history, architecture, and new experiences. The surge in bookings to Russia, in part fueled by affordable airfares and the country’s accessible visa policies, is expected to continue throughout the year.Declining Interest in Japan Amid Political TensionsIn a surprising twist, Japan, which once dominated as a preferred travel destination for Chinese tourists during the Spring Festival, has lost its former allure. Recent political strains between China and Japan, coupled with China’s safety warnings, have contributed to a sharp decline in travel to the country. According to flight data, bookings to Japan plummeted by nearly 50% this year, marking a significant shift in tourist preferences.Advertisement AdvertisementAirlines, recognizing the shift, have adjusted their policies accordingly, offering greater flexibility on refunds and flight changes for routes to Japan. In fact, several routes between China and Japan that were operational last year during the Spring Festival have been cancelled, reflecting the low demand for travel to Japan during this period. Consequently, Thailand and Russia are benefitting from this exodus, with many travelers seeking alternative destinations within the region and beyond.The Rise of Long-Haul Travel and Shifting Chinese PreferencesThe extended holiday, which runs for nine days in 2026, has also sparked a renewed interest in long-haul travel. Australia has experienced a staggering 100% increase in Chinese visitors compared to the previous year, as more tourists are willing to take longer flights for exotic getaways. Notably, destinations such as Sydney, Melbourne, and the Great Barrier Reef have been popular among those looking to explore diverse landscapes and experience Australian culture firsthand. With a more than 9% increase in international flight capacity, Australia has capitalized on this surge in demand.AdvertisementAdvertisementMoreover, as Chinese families prioritize experiential travel over material goods, many are choosing international destinations to celebrate the New Year together. In addition to Australia and Russia, the tropical island of Hainan and Changbai Mountain in northeastern China have seen increased interest, particularly among domestic travelers who prefer a warm beach retreat or a snowy mountain escape.Travel Tips for Chinese Tourists Venturing Abroad This Lunar New YearAs travel preferences evolve, Chinese tourists seeking to make the most of their Lunar New Year break should consider a few tips to enhance their vacation experience:Advertisement AdvertisementBook Early: As destinations like Thailand and Russia experience high demand, it’s important to book flights and accommodations early to secure the best rates and availability.Visa Requirements: Russia’s new visa waiver policy is a great opportunity for travelers, but be sure to check for any specific travel restrictions or requirements before planning your trip.Plan for Weather: For those heading to Australia or Thailand, pack accordingly for warm weather. For visitors planning snowy getaways to Changbai Mountain, ensure that your gear is suitable for winter conditions.Cultural Sensitivity: Respect for local customs is paramount, especially in countries like Thailand where cultural traditions are deeply intertwined with daily life. Understanding local etiquette can make your travel experience more enjoyable.The Impact of Changing Travel Trends on Global TourismThe shifting preferences of Chinese travelers during the Lunar New Year holiday are reshaping global tourism trends. With destinations like Thailand and Russia gaining favor, it’s clear that China’s outbound tourism is diversifying, driven by factors such as political circumstances, economic conditions, and evolving consumer behaviors. As political tensions continue to play a role in Chinese travel decisions, countries that maintain stable diplomatic relations with China stand to benefit in the long run.In the future, long-haul travel is expected to increase, as more Chinese tourists venture to distant locales for both business and leisure. With the rise of the experience economy in China, destinations offering unique experiences and flexible travel options are likely to become the go-to spots for those seeking memorable adventures during major holidays like the Spring Festival.As the Lunar New Year period unfolds, a noticeable shift in Chinese tourists’ preferences is evident, with destinations like Russia and Thailand emerging as favorites. With fewer people opting for Japan due to political tensions, the landscape of outbound tourism is evolving, offering new opportunities for countries and travelers alike. By considering destinations that offer a blend of warmth, adventure, and cultural richness, tourists can make the most of this extended holiday.
