Indonesian travelers are experiencing a remarkable surge of interest in China, with tourism numbers skyrocketing and travelers exploring far beyond traditional destinations like Beijing and Shanghai. Chinese tourism authorities are witnessing a transformative moment as the country becomes an increasingly attractive travel destination.
Travel agencies are reporting unprecedented growth, with TX Travel noting that bookings to China have doubled in 2024 compared to 2023, with projections indicating a further 30 percent increase by mid-2025. This surge is driven by a combination of factors including improved air connectivity, diverse travel experiences, and an expanding range of destination options.
“People are drawn to China because it offers so much in one trip. It’s not a place you can fully explore in just a week,” said Anton Thedy, CEO of TX Travel. The company has seen remarkable success across various tour segments, from affordable group packages to premium experiences costing over US$1,900 per person.
A prime example of this growing trend is the popularity of unique travel experiences like the northern lights tour to Mohe, China’s northernmost city. Mohe’s unique arctic-like landscape has captured the imagination of Indonesian travelers, with tour groups filling up rapidly.
Dwidaya Tour’s vice president of marketing communications, Yohannes Heraldo, confirms this trend, stating that China has overtaken other destinations to become their top outbound product. “Despite being one of the last countries to reopen post-Covid, it’s now our top seller,” he shared.
The appeal extends far beyond traditional tourist routes. Travelers are increasingly exploring secondary cities like Chengdu, Xi’an, Hangzhou, and Harbin. The Harbin Ice Festival has become a particular draw, transforming winter travel into a seasonal highlight for Indonesian tourists.
Improved air connectivity has been crucial to this tourism boom. Carriers such as Batik Air and China Southern have expanded their route networks, enabling travel agents to create more diverse and accessible multi-city packages. This enhanced connectivity has significantly reduced travel barriers and increased destination accessibility.
Pauline Suharno, chairman of the Indonesian Travel Agents Association, emphasizes that China’s tourism transformation goes beyond infrastructure. “The tourism experience has really levelled up,” she noted, pointing to modern resorts, new theme parks, well-maintained museums, and increasingly accessible small towns.
The trend reflects a broader shift in travel preferences. Indonesian travelers are seeking variety, cultural depth, and unique experiences. China’s ability to offer diverse attractions—from urban sophistication to breathtaking landscapes—continues to fuel this growing interest.
As 2024 progresses, all indicators suggest that China will remain a premier destination for Indonesian travelers, offering an unprecedented blend of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and immersive experiences.