International visitors tour Wenzhou, Zhejiang province. [Photo/66wz.com]

According to data from the Wenzhou Airport Border Inspection Station, the first half of this year saw over 170,000 inbound travelers to Wenzhou, a 131-percent surge compared to 2023. Foreign visitors numbered over 17,000, a 294-percent rise, with most coming from Italy, India, and South Korea.

The visa-free policy for Australia, Poland, and New Zealand, effective July 1, saw immediate results with several Australian tourists arriving in Wenzhou.

To handle the surge, Wenzhou Airport has implemented measures like green channels for group travelers, pre-check inquiries for foreign visitors, and additional fast-track lanes.

Enhanced international flights have also contributed to the influx, with Wenzhou now connected to cities like Rome, Milan, Madrid, Bangkok, and Seoul. A new direct flight to Phuket was added on July 2.

Daniel from the United States was among the tourists. He said that this is his first time in China, and he chose Wenzhou as his first destination because one of his best friends is studying there. Daniel expressed his fondness for Wenzhou's snacks, particularly enjoying sticky rice and big pork buns.

Hotels are also upgrading services to attract foreign guests, offering amenities like VISA card payment and English signage. The city has also improved its payment infrastructure, making it easier for foreign visitors to use mobile payments and digital currency.

An international visitor poses a photo in Wenzhou, Zhejiang province. [Photo/66wz.com]