What Percentage of China Is Tourism?

By Robert Palmer

China is a country with a rich cultural heritage and diverse natural beauty that attracts millions of tourists every year. The tourism industry has grown significantly in recent years, contributing to the country’s economic development. In this article, we will explore what percentage of China is tourism and how the industry has evolved over time.

History of Tourism in China

Tourism in China has a long history dating back to ancient times. In the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), poets and scholars traveled around the country, describing its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures. However, it was not until the 1970s that China opened up to international tourism due to political reasons.

Since then, the Chinese government has actively promoted tourism as a means of economic development. The industry has grown rapidly over the past few decades, with more than 140 million inbound visitors recorded in 2019.

Current State of Tourism in China

China is now one of the world’s top tourist destinations, attracting travelers from all over the globe. According to data from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), China ranked third globally in terms of international tourist arrivals after France and Spain.

In terms of domestic tourism, China is also a major player. In 2019, there were approximately 6 billion domestic trips made by Chinese tourists, generating about $5 trillion yuan (approximately $725 billion USD) in revenue for the industry.

The Percentage of China That Is Tourism

So what percentage of China is tourism? As per official statistics released by the National Bureau of Statistics of China (NBS), the contribution of tourism to China’s GDP was 11% in 2019. This means that approximately one-ninth of China’s economy depends on tourism-related industries such as transportation, hospitality, and entertainment.

Moreover, employment in the tourism sector has also been on an upward trend over the years. According to the NBS, the number of people employed in tourism-related industries in China reached 56.5 million in 2019, accounting for about 4% of the country’s total population.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tourism is a vital contributor to China’s economic growth and cultural exchange with other countries. With its rich history, diverse landscapes, and varied cultures, China has become a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.

The percentage of China that is tourism is significant and will continue to grow as more people discover all that this country has to offer. As the Chinese government continues to promote tourism as a strategic industry, we can expect to see even more growth and development in the years to come.