In September 2025, Russia unexpectedly announced a visa-free policy for Chinese tourists. The news sparked excitement across the travel market as flight prices dropped to as low as ¥1482 for direct flights from Beijing to Moscow, creating a booking frenzy. With the National Day holiday approaching, a surge of Chinese tourists is expected to head to Russia. Is this simply a coincidence, or a deeper strategic move between the two nations? Let’s explore how this visa-free wave could reshape travel and business opportunities.
Russia’s Visa-Free Policy Sparks a Tourism Boom
In early September 2025, Russia’s visa-free announcement for Chinese travelers landed like a bombshell. Airfares between Beijing and Moscow quickly dropped, averaging around ¥1482, causing travel agencies to be flooded with calls. Previously, high airfare often deterred travelers, but this policy gave millions of Chinese tourists the green light to visit Russia.
On the very day of the announcement, Russian airlines and travel platforms reported a massive surge in bookings. Packages tailored for Chinese tourists — from cultural tours to shopping excursions — sold rapidly. For Russia, this was not only a tourism boost but also an opportunity to strengthen bilateral ties with China.
Major attractions, including Moscow’s Red Square and St. Petersburg’s Winter Palace, prepared to welcome the influx with Chinese-language services and special discounts. For many Chinese, Russia’s rich history and culture were already appealing; with visa-free entry, Russia instantly became one of the hottest National Day holiday destinations.
Airfare Frenzy: Russia Becomes a National Holiday Favorite
The visa-free policy turned Russia into a surprise “dark horse” of National Day tourism. Flight bookings tripled compared to the same period last year, with peak demand just before the holiday.
Travel agencies and airlines quickly launched promotional campaigns. Popular destinations included Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Vladivostok in the Far East. Hotels and restaurants across Russia expanded capacity, while tourism authorities promoted cultural immersion programs — from traditional festivals to winter sports — all designed to match Chinese tourists’ preferences.
Meanwhile, Russian businesses seized the opportunity to market local products, art, and souvenirs. The influx of Chinese tourists not only boosted tourism revenue but also attracted investment interest, deepening commercial exchanges between the two countries.
A Surge of Visitors and the “Renminbi Effect”
With the holiday approaching, Russian tourism operators were thrilled. The most immediate effect of the visa-free policy was the sharp rise in Chinese arrivals. For Russia, Chinese tourists are not just visitors, but a vital consumer base with strong spending power.
Luxury malls in Moscow, art shops in St. Petersburg, and cultural venues everywhere are gearing up for heavy demand. Merchants even stocked up in advance, anticipating what they call the “Renminbi effect.”
Cultural tourism also plays a role. Iconic sites such as Red Square, the Kremlin, and the Hermitage Museum will dominate Chinese social media during the holiday, creating a chain reaction of travel interest.
However, the sudden surge also tests Russia’s hospitality infrastructure. Hotels are quickly filling, flights are oversold, and there’s a shortage of Chinese-speaking guides. Service quality must keep pace to avoid negative experiences that could damage long-term momentum.
Beyond Visa-Free: What Lies Ahead for China–Russia Tourism?
The visa-free policy is only the beginning. The real challenge is whether it can sustain long-term tourism growth.
- Infrastructure & Services: Russia still lags in high-quality accommodation and visitor services in some regions. Without improvements, tourists may be discouraged after the initial wave.
- Diversified Routes: Currently, most tourists flock to Moscow and St. Petersburg. Expanding to Siberia, Lake Baikal, and the Russian Far East could attract repeat visitors.
- Cultural Exchange: Joint cultural festivals, “Year of Tourism” programs, and immersive experiences could deepen bilateral understanding and encourage repeat visits.
- Economic Impact: Beyond tourism revenue, increased spending will support local restaurants, retail, and jobs, potentially transforming regional economies.
Visa-free entry is not just a travel perk; it reflects a growing strategic partnership between China and Russia. For Chinese travelers, it means affordable and spontaneous trips. For Russia, it’s an economic stimulus and a pivot toward Asia.
