With the implementation of the mutual visa exemption policy between China and Thailand earlier this year, coupled with the growing popularity of Chinese culture in Southeast Asia, China has increasingly become the top destination for many Thai tourists.
According to data analysis by Thai tech company Zanroo on social media discussions about "visa-free travel to China," from March 1 to October 22, 2024, there were 1.8 billion mentions related to Thai tourism to China. Short videos showcasing Chongqing's unique landscapes, cuisine, and Chinese culture have sparked widespread praise among Thai netizens, generating 117 million discussions.
Among China’s many cities, Chongqing has become particularly beloved by young Thais.The city's distinctive urban landscapes and culinary delights have become viral sensations on international social media, sparking a “check-in” trend.
Several young Thai visitors to Chongqing noted that the city’s spicy cuisine closely resembles Thai food, making it immensely popular among Thais.
Thai fans of Chinese TV dramas and films are also eager to experience an "idol exploration" trip, which is just a 3-hour direct flight away.
A Thai tourism operator remarked that this phenomenon was previously more common on travel routes to Japan and South Korea.
For many Thai tourists, a visit to Chongqing offers not just visual and culinary delights but also an incredibly cost-effective travel experience. According to a survey by the Thai tourism department, Thai travelers can save nearly one-third on travel expenses by visiting China instead of South Korea on a comparable itinerary.
