Thailand, Russia, and Australia See Explosive Surge in Chinese Tourists – What You Need to Know About the Record-Breaking 9.5 Billion Lunar New Year Journeys!

Thailand, Russia, and Australia are witnessing an explosive surge in Chinese tourists, as the 2026 Lunar New Year travel season sets new records, with an expected 9.5 billion journeys. These three countries are emerging as the top destinations for Chinese travelers, who are flocking in droves for both short getaways and extended vacations. With the rise in direct flight routes from major Chinese cities and the increasing popularity of cultural exchange, these nations are cashing in on the vast demand. Thailand, with its tropical beaches and vibrant culture, continues to be a top pick, while Russia’s eased visa policies have attracted a wave of tourists eager to explore its rich history and diverse landscapes. Meanwhile, Australia is benefiting from its proximity to China and the introduction of more flights to cities like Sydney and Melbourne, offering Chinese travelers a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and luxury. This Lunar New Year is shaping up to be one of the biggest travel seasons ever, bringing not just tourists, but a wave of economic benefits to airlines, hotels, and local businesses in these countries. With all eyes on these booming destinations, the global tourism industry is set to experience a significant shift, and travelers are in for an unforgettable experience, with expanded travel options and special promotions making it the perfect time to book that long-awaited trip.

Thailand, Russia, and Australia See Explosive Surge in Chinese Tourists – What You Need to Know About the Record-Breaking 9.5 Billion Lunar New Year Journeys!

As China braces for its largest-ever Lunar New Year travel season in 2026, tourism across the globe is about to experience a massive surge. This year’s travel rush will see Chinese tourists flooding popular destinations such as Thailand, Russia, and Australia, with the total number of journeys expected to exceed an astounding 9.5 billion.

With domestic and international travel surging to record levels, airlines, hotels, and tourism boards are preparing for an unprecedented travel boom. The holiday season, which officially spans from February 15 to February 23, but extends into a 40-day period due to China’s long tradition of travel during the Lunar New Year, is set to redefine the travel landscape. Chinese outbound travel is poised to hit new highs, with international travel demand growing year by year. This is the perfect time for both seasoned and first-time travelers to dive into the dynamic shifts happening in the global tourism scene, especially in regions benefiting from this historic influx.

Explosive Surge in Chinese Tourists to Thailand, Russia, and Australia

As one of the world’s largest exporters of tourists, China’s Lunar New Year travel season is driving record numbers of visitors to destinations that provide a combination of favorable weather and rich cultural experiences. Thailand, Russia, and Australia are among the top destinations for Chinese tourists, thanks to improved accessibility, greater flight connectivity, and a rise in promotional travel packages.

The total number of Chinese tourists is expected to skyrocket during this year’s festival. Thailand, known for its tropical beaches, vibrant cities, and world-class cuisine, remains the number one destination for many Chinese travelers. Warm weather and exotic beaches make it an attractive choice during the winter months, particularly when much of China is still gripped by the cold.

In Russia, a more recent trend has emerged. The country is seeing a significant increase in Chinese arrivals, thanks in large part to eased visa policies and promotions encouraging travelers to explore Russia’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Siberia are now accessible to more Chinese tourists than ever before.

Meanwhile, Australia is benefiting from both its geographical proximity to China and the expansion of airlines like China Southern Airlines and Qantas, which have significantly increased the number of direct flights to major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth. These cities are top picks for Chinese travelers seeking adventure, world-class beaches, and a dose of natural beauty.

The Airline Industry Booms as Travel Volume Soars

The explosive growth in tourism directly impacts the airline industry. As Chinese tourists flock to Thailand, Russia, and Australia, airlines are scrambling to meet demand. Flight bookings from China have surged dramatically, with China Eastern Airlines and China Southern Airlines among the leaders in increased flight capacity. In fact, these two airlines alone are offering hundreds of additional seats to cope with the overwhelming surge in travelers. International flight bookings for destinations such as Sydney and Bangkok have been up 21% year-on-year, reflecting a robust travel demand.

Airlines are not only expanding flight routes but also enhancing the passenger experience. Qantas and Singapore Airlines, in particular, are offering exclusive Lunar New Year packages, complete with festive meals, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities during flights. The competition to capture the hearts of Chinese travelers is fierce, and airlines are going above and beyond to ensure they stand out in this busy market.

Flight schedules have been revamped to cater to the Lunar New Year rush, with more direct flights operating between Beijing, Shanghai, and popular international hubs like Moscow, Sydney, and Bangkok. These adjustments are essential for meeting the soaring demand for both direct and connecting flights.

For travelers, this means more options when booking flights, with direct routes available for some of the most sought-after destinations. Booking early is crucial, as flights are already filling up fast, and many airlines are reporting limited availability for peak travel dates.

For those planning to travel from Beijing to Moscow, direct flights are available from Aeroflot, Russia’s national carrier. Additionally, China Southern Airlines is running multiple flights weekly between Shanghai and Sydney, while Singapore Airlines continues to offer premium services to Singapore, a major hub for travelers heading to other parts of Southeast Asia.

Hospitality Industry Faces Unprecedented Demand

With the surge in travelers comes an equally explosive demand for accommodation. Hotels, resorts, and local tourism providers in Thailand, Russia, and Australia are preparing for record occupancy rates. Marriott, Hilton, and Accor Hotels are among the major hotel chains that have expanded their offerings to accommodate the growing number of Chinese tourists. In some popular areas like Bangkok and St. Petersburg, occupancy rates for premium hotels are expected to reach 90% or higher during the peak travel period.

In Thailand, Bangkok and Phuket are expected to see some of the highest influxes of Chinese visitors. Hotels in these cities are preparing for a 30% increase in bookings compared to previous years. Many properties are offering special deals that cater specifically to Chinese tourists, such as Chinese-speaking staff, Lunar New Year-themed events, and Chinese-inspired meals.

Australia’s hotel industry is also experiencing a boom. Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne are seeing their highest bookings in recent years, with Accor Hotels and Hilton Worldwide leading the charge in offering exclusive packages and promotions tailored to Chinese travelers. Hotel prices are expected to rise, as the demand for rooms during the peak travel season is expected to outstrip supply. Tourists traveling to Melbourne and Sydney can expect to find some of the most luxurious options available, from iconic high-rise city hotels to resorts along the coast.

One of the reasons these countries are benefitting from this influx of Chinese tourists is that the hospitality sector has focused on making these destinations more Chinese-friendly. From offering special amenities to providing concierge services in Mandarin, the hospitality industry has responded quickly to make sure Chinese travelers feel at home. As a result, many Chinese tourists have developed an affinity for these locations, contributing to their rapid growth in popularity.

What Tourists Need to Know Before They Go

For those planning to travel during this year’s Lunar New Year, there are a few essential tips and facts that can help ensure a smooth trip. With such a large volume of travel, it’s important to plan ahead, especially when it comes to flight bookings and hotel accommodations.

1. Plan Ahead for Flights and Hotels
With so many travelers heading to the same destinations, flights and hotels are expected to fill up quickly. Book your flight early to secure the best seat, especially for premium class tickets. Major airlines are already offering special deals for Chinese tourists traveling during this period, but these deals tend to sell out fast.

2. Flexible Travel Dates
Due to the high volume of travelers during the Lunar New Year, it is advisable to remain flexible with your travel dates. If you are looking to travel at the peak time (around February 15-23), be prepared for crowded airports and possible delays. Consider adjusting your travel dates by a few days if possible to avoid the heaviest crowds.

3. Ensure You Have Proper Documentation
While many countries, such as Russia and Thailand, have simplified visa processes for Chinese tourists, it is essential to make sure that your passport and visa are in order well in advance. For example, travelers heading to Russia should note that the visa process is now quicker than ever, but can still take a few weeks to process.

4. Currency and Payments
Many businesses in popular tourist areas now accept UnionPay, a payment service widely used by Chinese tourists. Thailand and Australia are both easy destinations for Chinese travelers, with numerous options for cashless payments. However, it’s still a good idea to carry local currency for smaller purchases or in case you visit less tourist-heavy areas.

5. Book Tours and Experiences Early
With such high demand, guided tours and cultural experiences in places like St. Petersburg, Sydney, and Bangkok are expected to book up quickly. Be sure to reserve your spot for tours, whether it’s a Great Wall tour in Beijing or a Sydney Harbour cruise.

6. Prepare for Peak Season Prices
Expect premium pricing in both flights and hotels during the peak travel window. While Thailand, Russia, and Australia remain affordable options, expect to pay higher rates during the Lunar New Year. However, these increased prices come with added value, such as festive events, cultural experiences, and discounts on certain services.

Final Thoughts

The Lunar New Year in 2026 is setting new records in Chinese travel, with Thailand, Russia, and Australia emerging as top destinations for Chinese tourists. Airlines, like China Southern and Qantas, are ramping up capacity to meet the increasing demand, while the hospitality industry in these regions is bracing for an influx of bookings. With 9.5 billion journeys expected, these countries stand to gain tremendously from the massive wave of tourists.

Thailand, Russia, and Australia are experiencing an explosive surge in Chinese tourists this Lunar New Year, with a record-breaking 9.5 billion journeys expected. As these countries become prime travel hotspots, airlines and hotels are bracing for an unprecedented tourism boom.

For travelers, this is an exciting time to explore new destinations, take advantage of special promotions, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural festivities of the Lunar New Year. By planning ahead, booking early, and being mindful of the high demand, tourists can enjoy the best of what these destinations have to offer. Whether you’re traveling for a tropical getaway in Thailand, a cultural exploration in Russia, or an adventure in Australia, this year’s Lunar New Year promises to be an unforgettable travel experience for all.

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