'Ne Zha 2' and other Chinese films become new travel guides

　　If you think China's tourism boom is all about pandas and the Great Wall, think again. The country's rich culture, coupled with some savvy marketing and a surge in film-based travel, is sending international tourists flocking to China. With relaxed visa policies and iconic films like "Ne Zha 2" leading the charge, China's tourism scene is now flourishing more than ever.

　　China's cultural charm: Ancient meets contemporary

　　You could spend weeks exploring China's ancient treasures, such as the Terracotta Army or the Great Wall, and still have only scratched the surface of the country's cultural appeal. While these historical wonders are amazing, the real draw for tourists is the seamless blend of tradition with the new, thanks to a growing focus on modern culture, especially through films. "Ne Zha 2" – an animated blockbuster rooted in Chinese mythology – has smashed records globally, sparking international curiosity about the country's ancient stories and how they're being told in a fresh, modern way.

　　China relaxes visa polices for several countries

　　Who needs an overly complicated visa process when you can just pop in for a spontaneous trip? In December 2024, China announced a significant relaxation of its visa-free transit policy, extending the permitted stay for eligible international travelers from 54 countries from the initial 72 hours and subsequent 144 hours to 240 hours, or 10 days. The designated ports and travel regions were also substantially expanded, enhancing flexibility for visitors. With a 112 percent jump in visa-free foreign travel in 2024, it's safe to say China's tourism industry remains competitive. Now you can stay longer to explore those Ne Zha-themed tourist hot spots!

　　"Ne Zha 2": A Cultural Catalyst

　　The film's success has led to a surge of interest in locations featured in the story.

　　Places like Chentangzhuang in north China's Tianjin, linked to the mystical Chentang pass, are experiencing a tourist rush, proving that movies are now an essential part of the travel decision-making process.

　　Tianjin's cultural and tourism sector has introduced several Ne Zha-themed experiential routes, resulting in a nearly 30 percent surge in visitor traffic.

　　In the Cuiping District of Yibin, in southwest China's Sichuan Province, known for ancient temples honoring Nezha, newly launched attractions and themed events have drawn crowds, leading to a 34 percent increase in hotel booking.

　　"China Travel with Chinese Films": Where movies and tourism collide

　　In case you were wondering how China plans to keep this momentum going, the answer is a cinematic road trip. The "China Travel with Chinese Films" program takes advantage of the global love for Chinese films by offering themed travel routes that let tourists immerse themselves in both the landscapes and the movie magic. It's a two-for-one deal: witness iconic filming locations while soaking up China's natural beauty. It's the ultimate fan experience, except you are able to skip the long lines for the meet-and-greet.

　　Looking Ahead: China's cultural tourism future is bright, and full of movies

　　If you think this cultural tourism boom is just a passing phase, you'd better think again. With more international tourists discovering China's heritage and modern attractions – and film-inspired travel experiences becoming the next big thing – China's cultural tourism sector is just getting started. As programs like "China Travel with Chinese Films" continue to gain traction, and global audiences show increased interest in Chinese cinematic hits like "Ne Zha 2," the country is poised to become a top global destination. China's not just selling history – it's selling stories, and the world is buying.