China’s Foreign Ministry on Friday welcomed the growing global fascination with Chinese lifestyle and culture after the phrase “Becoming Chinese” emerged as a viral trend across social media platforms worldwide.
Addressing a press briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said it was encouraging to see more foreigners eager to experience China’s development and everyday life.
Beyond the Great Wall and pandas
Lin noted that for many overseas visitors, understanding China today goes far beyond traditional symbols such as the Great Wall, pandas or cuisine. Instead, travellers are increasingly drawn to the lived experience of modern Chinese society.
Foreign visitors, he said, are discovering the convenience of a highly digitalised ecosystem — from mobile payments and e-commerce to high-speed rail networks and seamless urban transport — alongside the cultural depth of daily life.
Blend of tradition and modernity draws visitors
Highlighting China’s appeal, Lin pointed to the combination of cutting-edge infrastructure such as 5G networks and high-speed rail with traditional cultural heritage and lesser-known “hidden gem” cities.
“This mix of history and modernity offers a unique experience that continues to enhance China’s attractiveness,” he said.
Sharp rise in foreign travel to China
Citing official data, Lin revealed that China recorded over 82 million foreign entries and exits in 2025, marking a 26.4 per cent year-on-year increase. Visa-free entries alone rose by nearly 50 per cent, reflecting eased travel policies and renewed global interest.
With the Year of the Horse approaching, Lin said China warmly welcomes foreign visitors to celebrate the Spring Festival in the country. He added that flight bookings by foreign travellers to China during the festival period have surged by more than 400 per cent in the past two weeks.
Officials said the trend reflects growing curiosity about China’s evolving society and lifestyle among international audiences.