Kathmandu— As relentless heatwaves grip much of the world this summer, travelers are increasingly turning to China for respite, driving a boom in inbound tourism. From repurposed air-raid shelters offering cool dining experiences in Chongqing to naturally chilled mountain retreats like Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, unique “China Cool” escapes are becoming a viral trend on social media. By late July, bookings for inbound summer trips had jumped more than 20 percent compared to the previous year, with European travelers leading the surge. This influx reflects not only a desire for lower temperatures but also an interest in China’s cultural depth and innovative offerings.

Urban Cool Havens

In cities like Chongqing and Shenzhen, authorities are actively creating cool spaces within urban environments. A former air-raid shelter in Chongqing has been transformed into a popular hotpot restaurant, maintaining a temperature of around 25 degrees Celsius year-round. Marketing director Wang Jing explained that the restaurant serves over 300 tables daily, with approximately one in six diners being international visitors. Michael Shedd, a tourist from Chicago, described the experience as “legendary,” noting it felt cool without traditional air conditioning. Similarly, shopping malls and subway stations are offering cooling areas, while pedestrian walkways are equipped with misting systems to lower temperatures.

Natural Escapes Offer Relief

China’s diverse geography provides a wealth of natural cooling destinations. Huangshizhai in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, situated over 1,200 meters high, boasts average summer temperatures between 16 and 25 degrees Celsius. French tourist Isabelle Sala Jaboule described the experience as “wonderful,” enjoying the fresh air and cooler climate compared to a hot France. The Changbai Mountain Scenic Area in Jilin Province is also attracting visitors, with daily numbers exceeding 30,000 since July – a 38 percent increase in overseas tourists.

Longer Stays and Deeper Exploration

This summer’s tourism trend indicates that travelers are not just seeking temporary relief from the heat but are also planning longer stays to immerse themselves in Chinese culture. Data from Trip.com shows that 35 percent of inbound travelers to Yunnan Province stay for four to seven days, while 23 percent remain for over a week. Juan Antonio, a Spanish tourist on his eighth trip to China, is exploring the province’s ancient temples and natural landscapes. Visitors are also engaging with modern aspects of Chinese life, such as mobile payments and high-speed rail.

Growing Inbound Tourism Numbers

China has seen a significant increase in inbound foreign visits during the first half of 2024, recording 22.91 million arrivals – a 20.4 percent year-on-year rise. A substantial 77.7 percent of these travelers are benefiting from China’s visa-free entry facilitation policies. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated that the country welcomes international friends to experience its warmth and vitality firsthand, highlighting China's peaceful development, innovation, and cultural richness.

The surge in inbound tourism is expected to continue as China further expands its visa-free transit policy and enhances travel facilitation measures, solidifying its position as a desirable destination for travelers seeking both cool climates and rich cultural experiences.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.