WENZHOU: According to data from the Wenzhou Airport Border Inspection Station, the first half of this year saw more than 170,000 inbound passengers in Wenzhou, an increase of 131% compared to 2023. The number of foreign visitors exceeded 17,000, an increase of 294%, with the most originating from Italy, India and South Korea.
The visa-free policy for Australia, Poland and New Zealand, effective from July 1, saw immediate results as several Australian tourists arrived in Wenzhou.
To handle the surge, Wenzhou Airport has implemented measures such as green channels for group passengers, pre-inquiry checks for foreign visitors and other fast lanes.
Improved international flights have also contributed to the influx, with Wenzhou now connected to cities such as Rome, Milan, Madrid, Bangkok and Seoul. A new direct route to Phuket has been added since July 2nd.
Among the tourists was Daniel from the United States. He said it was his first time in China and he chose Wenzhou as his first destination because one of his best friends studies there. Daniel expressed his fondness for Wenzhou’s snacks, especially enjoying the sticky rice and large pork buns.
Hotels are also improving services to attract foreign guests, offering amenities such as VISA card payment and English signage. The city has also improved its payment infrastructure, making it easier for foreign visitors to use mobile payments and digital currency.
