Two Million People Flocked to Kunming! The Visa-Free Policy Boosts Tourism Boom

栏头

"There is a Lifestyle called Yunnan" is currently in full swing in Kunming! As the summer travel peak kicks into high gear, coupled with increased international flight frequencies and expanded visa-free policies, the positive signals released by Kunming have continuously boosted its international appeal. The latest data shows that the number of inbound and outbound passengers at Kunming Changshui International Airport has exceeded 2 million in 2025, becoming a vivid display to observe the opening-up and tourism vibrancy of Kunming.

As of 17:20 on July 25th, Kunming Changshui International Airport surpassed the milestone of 2 million inbound and outbound passenger throughput in 2025, marking a 29% year-on-year increase and 55 days earlier than the same period in 2024. Among them, inbound and outbound flights exceeded 16,000, with an average of over 80 flights and nearly 10,000 passengers per day, increased by 33% year-on-year. The surging figures showcase the convenient inbound and outbound environment and growing global appeal of Kunming.

1

Policy benefits are released, making entry more convenient.

South Korean traveler CHUNG EUNJIN says, "I'm from South Korea. Compared with before, it's much easier to enter China now. We have plenty of time to enjoy a trip around the country."

韩国

Dutch traveler DE MAAT CAMIEL FRANCOIS GUSTAV says, "I'm from the Netherlands. The visa-free policy is a very good measure, which makes traveling to and from China much more convenient for us."

荷兰

Enhanced tourism experiences contribute to the city's growing appeal.

Thai traveler KOHAOW THAPANEE says, "I'm from Thailand. Since the China-Thailand visa-free policy was implemented, it has become much more convenient for my family and me to come to China. We visited Dianchi Lake, where there were many tourists. Kunming is a very beautiful city, and the people here are very kind and helpful."

泰国

Thai team leader JENJIT THACHA says, "I am a team leader from Thailand. This time, I'm bringing 55 children from Laos, Thailand and other places to Kunming to compete in a youth football tournament. After that, we plan to visit the geological wonders of the Stone Forest, then cycle along the Dianchi Greenway to experience the ecological charm of the 'Plateau Pearl', and we also plan to go to Nanping Street to immerse ourselves in the cultural ritual experience of Crossing the Bridge Rice Noodles... I recommend that more Thai tourists visit Kunming."

泰国领队

According to statistics, from January 1st of this year to the present, the number of entries and exits of Chinese citizens through Kunming Changshui International Airport has reached over 1.36 million, a year-on-year increase of 21.3%. A total of 640,000 foreign nationals have entered and exited, representing a year-on-year increase of 49%. Of these, visa-free entries accounted for over 60%, demonstrating a significant policy effect. Notably, the number of entries from Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore increased by 406%, 119%, and 273% respectively compared to 2019, creating a strong "Southeast Asian influx of tourists" phenomenon.

At present, Kunming is steadily extending its air links, with Changshui International Airport services to 30 destinations across 16 countries and regions. New high-frequency flights such as Kunming-Vientiane and Kunming-Bangkok have been added, largely achieving comprehensive coverage of capitals and key tourist cities in South and Southeast Asian countries. This provides an efficient and convenient channel for global travelers to experience "There is a Lifestyle called Yunnan."

Copyright @Kunming Information Hub 2019. All Rights Reserved. E-mail:inkunmingnews@gmail.com