Ti Gong
Travelers exchange currency as soon as they arrive in China.
China’s 144-hour visa-free transit policy, which currently covers 37 ports of entry, has sparked a boom in tourism and the catering industry.
Global travel service provider Trip.com revealed that the number of foreign currency exchange transactions at its stores increased by more than 200 percent in the second quarter compared to the same period last year.
The company has launched a fee-free small amount foreign currency exchange service for tourists visiting Japan at 24 locations in 13 cities, including Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu.
The company said it has seen large volumes of US dollar, euro and yen exchange, with demand from tourists from Southeast Asian countries and Russia soaring.
The booming inbound tourism market is bringing new vitality and growth to the restaurant industry.
Ti Gong
Tourists take part in traditional customs in Guizhou Province.
“Since the visa-free policy was introduced, the number of foreign tourists has been gradually increasing,” said Hu Xiaozheng, manager of the People’s Square branch of Haidilao hotpot chain. “Recently, on weekends, we’ve seen more than 30 tables of foreign customers from countries like South Korea, the US and the UK every day.”
Foreign tourists have shown a strong interest in Chinese cuisine with regional characteristics. A recent addition to Haidilao’s menu, Guizhou Leishan Hot and Sour Soup Hotpot, fermented with Leishan fish sauce, an intangible cultural heritage technique, is particularly popular. Hu said about one-third of foreign customers would like to try the hot and sour soup hotpot.
“In summer, late-night snacks, or so-called late-night snacks, are also popular among foreign visitors,” Hu added.
The restaurant introduced English menus at its Shanghai outlets, distributed tourist maps and hosted Guizhou-style performances and folk customs displays.
“My friends in Germany have always wanted to experience Chinese history and culture, so they are very jealous that I can enjoy so much delicious Chinese food,” said Patrick Kermer from Germany.
