When Will China Open Its Borders for Tourism?

By Robert Palmer

China, the land of panda bears, the Great Wall, and delicious cuisine, has been a popular tourist destination for decades. However, since the outbreak of COVID-19 in late 2019, China has closed its borders to foreign tourists.

This has left many potential travelers wondering when they can visit this beautiful country again. In this article, we will explore the current situation in China and when it may open its borders for tourism.

The Current Situation

China was one of the first countries to be hit by COVID-19 and responded quickly with strict measures to contain the virus. These measures included closing its borders to foreign nationals and suspending most international flights. While some business travelers are allowed into China with a special visa and quarantine requirements, tourists are still not permitted entry.

When Will China Open Its Borders for Tourism?

The short answer is that we don’t know yet. The situation around the world regarding COVID-19 is constantly changing, and China’s policies will depend on how successful other countries are in containing the virus.

However, there is some good news. In March 2021, China announced plans to create a “vaccine passport” system that would allow foreign nationals who have been vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the country without undergoing quarantine requirements. This system is currently being tested in several cities across China.

What Can Tourists Expect When China Opens?

When China does eventually open its borders for tourism again, there will likely be strict protocols in place to prevent another outbreak of COVID-19. This may include mandatory vaccination requirements and testing upon arrival.

Tourists should also be prepared for changes in popular tourist destinations such as limited capacity at attractions or restricted access to certain areas.

Conclusion

While it’s uncertain when exactly China will open its doors to tourists again, there are positive signs that it may happen in the not-too-distant future. The vaccine passport system is a step in the right direction and shows that China is committed to restarting its tourism industry.

If you’re planning a trip to China, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest news and regulations. With patience and proper planning, we hope to see tourists returning to China soon.