Top 10 Most Popular Cities for Traveling to China in 2025
As international travel to China continues to rebound, 2025 has become a milestone year for inbound tourism. Thanks to expanded visa-free policies, improved international flight connectivity, and growing global interest in Chinese culture, millions of foreign travelers are choosing China as their destination.
Based on inbound travel trends, international accessibility, and tourist popularity, here are the top 10 most visited cities in China by international tourists in 2025, along with why they stand out.
1. Shanghai – The International Gateway to Modern China
Why it’s popular:
Shanghai is China’s most international city and the top entry point for foreign visitors.
- Major global aviation hub with extensive international flights
- Iconic skyline blending modern skyscrapers with historic neighborhoods
- Highly developed English services, transportation, and mobile payments
Best for: First-time visitors to China, urban explorers, convenience-focused travelers
Classic travel route:
The Bund → Nanjing Road → Yuyuan Garden → Shanghai Disneyland or Lujiazui
2. Guangzhou – Trade Capital and Culinary Paradise
Why it’s popular:
Guangzhou combines business travel with authentic food culture.
- Strong international connections to Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Middle East
- Canton Fair and exhibitions drive large-scale business tourism
- Cantonese cuisine is globally recognized and foreigner-friendly
Best for: Business travelers, exhibition visitors, food lovers
Classic travel route:
Canton Fair Complex → Shamian Island → Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street → Canton Tower
3. Beijing – China’s Cultural and Historical Icon
Why it’s popular:
Beijing represents the heart of Chinese civilization.
- World-famous landmarks such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City
- Strong international presence with embassies and universities
- Mature tourism infrastructure for cultural travel
Best for: History enthusiasts, cultural travelers, first-time visitors
Classic travel route:
Forbidden City → Tiananmen Square → Temple of Heaven → Great Wall (Badaling or Mutianyu)
4. Shenzhen – Technology, Innovation, and Youthful Energy
Why it’s popular:
Shenzhen showcases China’s future-facing image.
- Close proximity to Hong Kong for easy transit travel
- Major hub for tech companies and innovation
- Clean, modern city with high foreigner-friendliness
Best for: Business travelers, tech professionals, Hong Kong transit tourists
Classic travel route:
Shenzhen Bay Tech Zone → Ping An Finance Center → OCT Tourist Area → Zhongying Street
5. Chengdu – Pandas, Food, and a Relaxed Lifestyle
Why it’s popular:
Chengdu offers a slower pace and unforgettable cultural experiences.
- Home to the world-famous Giant Panda Research Base
- Renowned Sichuan cuisine and teahouse culture
- Western China’s international transportation hub
Best for: Family travelers, food lovers, lifestyle-focused tourists
Classic travel route:
Giant Panda Base → Jinli Ancient Street → Kuanzhai Alley → Chunxi Road
6. Hangzhou – Eastern Aesthetics Meets Digital China
Why it’s popular:
Hangzhou blends classical beauty with modern innovation.
- West Lake and Lingyin Temple represent traditional Chinese aesthetics
- Headquarters of major tech companies such as Alibaba
- High livability and seamless integration of nature and technology
Best for: Culture lovers, tech-curious travelers, Shanghai side trips
Classic travel route:
West Lake Scenic Area → Lingyin Temple → Xixi Wetland → Future Sci-Tech City
7. Zhangjiajie – World-Class Natural Wonders
Why it’s popular:
Zhangjiajie is one of China’s most visually striking destinations.
- Unique quartz sandstone pillars linked to the film Avatar
- Strong international recognition, especially among Western and Korean tourists
- Tourism infrastructure focused entirely on natural landscapes
Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, adventure travelers
Classic travel route:
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park → Yuanjiajie → Tianmen Mountain → Glass Skywalk
8. Suzhou – Classical Gardens and Traditional Elegance
Why it’s popular:
Suzhou is the epitome of traditional Chinese refinement.
- UNESCO-listed classical gardens highly regarded worldwide
- Ancient water towns and historic streets
- Calm pace ideal for cultural immersion
Best for: High-culture travelers, art and history enthusiasts
Classic travel route:
Humble Administrator’s Garden → Lion Grove Garden → Pingjiang Road → Zhouzhuang Water Town
9. Xiamen – Coastal Beauty with Artistic Charm
Why it’s popular:
Xiamen attracts visitors seeking relaxation by the sea.
- Scenic coastline and island landscapes
- Gulangyu Island’s colonial history and international vibe
- Mild climate and strong creative atmosphere
Best for: Leisure travelers, long-stay visitors, coastal scenery lovers
Classic travel route:
Gulangyu Island → Zengcuo’an → Island Ring Road Cycling → Shapowei Art Zone
10. Nanjing – Deep History and Academic Influence
Why it’s popular:
Nanjing offers historical depth with modern accessibility.
- Ancient city walls, mausoleums, and riverside heritage
- Large international student and academic population
- Key transportation hub in the Yangtze River Delta
Best for: History-focused travelers, academic visitors, regional explorers
Classic travel route:
Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum → Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum → Confucius Temple → Laomendong
Conclusion
These ten cities represent the most popular destinations for international travelers visiting China in 2025. They stand out not only because of their attractions, but also due to:
- Strong international flight connectivity
- High visibility and recognition overseas
- Well-developed infrastructure for foreign visitors
- Clear and distinct travel themes
Whether you are visiting China for the first time or planning a deeper exploration, these cities offer the most accessible and rewarding experiences.
Planning a trip to China? Make sure to check the latest visa-free and entry policies before you travel.