China has seen a surge in inbound tourism during the five day May Day holiday, with data from the National Immigration Administration on Monday showing arrivals reaching their highest level in the post pandemic era, driven by the country’s expanding visa free policy.

China's visa free policy for citizens of 45 countries, recently expanded to include Canada and the UK and extended through December 31, 2026, enables most short haul travelers from Europe and Asia to enter with only a passport and return ticket

Official reports said that between April 30 and May 5, more than 100,000 people crossed the Vietnam border at Hekou in southwest China’s Yunnan Province, while Hunchun, northeast Jilin Province’s only land gateway to Russia, recorded its busiest week since 2019.

China's ancient cultural attractions have also become a major hit among international tourists during the holiday, with the historic city of Xi'an in northwestern Shaanxi Province welcoming an influx of visitors.

Foreign travelers climbed the ancient city wall, tried on traditional Chinese costumes, and joined cultural activities, sharing their experiences of traveling in China.

"When I arrived in China, I get in China, I said it's beautiful, it's amazing really," said an Italian tourist.

"I think China is one of the very few countries who can combine both the cultural virtues with the modern issues. Because it's not very easy and you are teaching the world the new technology, new life and new issues," said a Turkish tourist.