China recorded over 150 million inbound visits in 2025, marking a year-on-year increase of over 17 percent, Minister of Culture and Tourism Sun Yeli told press on Saturday.

Speaking at a press conference on the sidelines of the fourth session of the 14th National People's Congress in Beijing, Sun said China's visa exemption and visa-free transit policies have boosted growth in inbound visits.

"In 2025, China received over 150 million inbound tourist visits, up more than 17 percent year on year. Inbound tourism spending exceeded 130 billion U.S. dollars, surging over 40 percent year on year. Notably, more than 30 million foreign nationals entered China visa-free," said Sun.

The minister also highlighted significant improvements in payment facilitation for international visitors, particularly in mobile payments.

"Payment facilitation for inbound visitors has significantly improved, particularly in mobile payments, which have seen rapid growth. Last year, mobile payment spending by inbound visitors reached approximately 80 billion yuan (about 11 billion U.S. dollars). Meanwhile, the shopping preferences of international tourists continue to expand and diversify. From electronics such as smartphones, drones, and virtual reality glasses, to cultural and creative products as well as popular collectible toys, these items have become Chinese specialties and quality products in the eyes of foreign tourists," said Sun.

Beyond shopping, Sun said, foreign tourists are now keen to experience authentic Chinese life.

"Foreign tourists are now eager to experience the daily life of Chinese people. Riding high-speed trains, watching drone light shows, trying traditional Chinese massages, wearing Hanfu (a type of traditional Chinese clothing), drinking warm water, and enjoying hotpot, these have become must-try experiences for visitors seeking an authentic taste of China," he said.