Jinan among top 15 Chinese cities in international tourism

Jinan, the capital of Shandong province, has been ranked among the top 15 Chinese cities with influence in international tourism, according to a report by the China Tourism Academy released at the International Mayors Forum on Tourism in Zhengzhou, Henan province, on Oct 24.

The research assessed 60 cities based on their overall appeal to international visitors, considering the entire tourist experience. Jinan shares the top 15 list with cities such as Chongqing, Hangzhou, Ningbo, Dalian, Hefei, Zhengzhou, Taiyuan, Shenyang, Shijiazhuang, Hohhot, Urumqi, Yinchuan, Lanzhou, and Wenzhou.

Jinan's international appeal is supported by a series of innovative policies. The city has introduced 13 measures to promote high-quality inbound tourism. The 240-hour visa-free transit policy has extended the duration of stay to 10 days, with cross-province travel permitted and free accommodation for transit passengers.

For residents of Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, Jinan has introduced two special measures: a seven-day temporary travel permit for those without valid travel documents and the integration of travel and residence permits.

A smart traveler inspection system has been implemented to provide one-stop entry processing, enhancing convenience. In the areas of payments and tax refunds, 293 foreign card point-of-sale (POS) machines and 19 currency exchange points have been installed, covering scenic spots, accommodations, and leisure facilities. Jinan is a leader in implementing tax refunds at the point of purchase.

By the first half of 2025, Jinan's border inspection station had handled about 379,000 passengers. Among international tourists, visa-free arrivals reached about 22,670, a 408 percent increase from the previous year, with most visitors from Japan, South Korea, and Singapore.

Jinan's core appeal lies in its spring water culture and historical heritage, which have been dynamically developed. The newly opened Quehua Sino-Singapore Park, which combines spring and Yellow River culture with Singaporean elements, has quickly become a popular cultural landmark. Intangible cultural heritage also attracts international visitors, including the Lantern Festival celebrations and other interactive experiences.

Jinan's growing presence on social media further adds to its international appeal. The Mid-Autumn Festival poetry gala, filmed in the city, along with content from international and domestic influencers, has boosted the city's visibility. Additionally, Jinan has launched tourism recommendation programs on social media platforms and designed 38 international tourism routes, covering diverse destinations such as springs, mountains, and cultural sites.