China’s Domestic Tourism Surges: Beijing-Shanghai Tops City Pairs, Reflecting 16% Growth

As global destinations eagerly anticipate the return of Chinese outbound tourism, China’s domestic travel market is experiencing unprecedented growth and resilience.

Beijing and Shanghai stand out as the powerhouse city pair, consistently securing the top spot in terms of capacity in China’s domestic market. In 2023, over 1.1 million seats are set to operate between these two bustling metropolises, showcasing an impressive 16% growth since 2019.

The appeal of China’s major cities is undeniable, with five of the Top 10 largest city pairs in 2023 originating or concluding in Beijing, the nation’s capital. Additionally, four city pairs involve Shanghai, emphasizing its significance as a major travel hub.

Highlighting the dominance of these urban centers, all of the Top 10 largest city pairs in 2023 are linked to Beijing or Shanghai. Beijing, with a population of 21.7 million, is the second-largest city in China, only surpassed by Shanghai, which boasts a reported population of 29.2 million in 2023.

Beijing’s allure extends beyond its bustling urban landscape, featuring historical attractions like the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace, along with convenient access to the iconic Great Wall of China. This cultural richness contributes to Beijing’s popularity as a travel destination, evident in the Top 20 largest city pairs, where ten also involve the Chinese capital.

As the domestic market continues to thrive, the data underscores the unwavering appeal of China’s own cities, providing a promising outlook for the nation’s tourism industry and offering insights into evolving travel preferences among Chinese residents. Stay tuned for more updates on the dynamic landscape of China’s booming domestic tourism.