https://explorechinaholidays.com/news Latest China travel news, visa updates, and destination guides for travellers from Australia. en-AU Fri, 10 Apr 2026 12:13:37 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/favicon.ico https://explorechinaholidays.com https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-10-au-exciting-new-international-flight-routes-to-china-for-australian-travellers https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-10-au-exciting-new-international-flight-routes-to-china-for-australian-travellers **Exciting New International Flight Routes to China for Australian Travellers** China Eastern Airlines is expanding its European network with two new direct routes ideal for Australian travellers connecting via major hubs. The airline will launch nonstop Shanghai-Zurich flights on June 18, operatin flights Fri, 10 Apr 2026 12:13:37 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-09-au-china-culture-update-9-april-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-09-au-china-culture-update-9-april-2026 China offers a diverse calendar of cultural festivals and events that showcase traditional heritage alongside contemporary experiences, making them excellent additions to any travel itinerary. ## Upcoming Major Festivals **Dai Water Splashing Festival** takes place in mid-April (around April 13–15 culture Thu, 09 Apr 2026 08:38:10 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-09-au-china-visa-update-9-april-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-09-au-china-visa-update-9-april-2026 **China's visa-free policies for tourists remain stable for 2026, with no new updates affecting Australian travellers beyond the existing visa-free entry extended through the year.** Australians continue to enjoy seamless access for short stays, allowing more time to explore destinations like the Gr visa Thu, 09 Apr 2026 08:38:03 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-09-au-beijing-boosts-inbound-tourism-with-new-2026-policies https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-09-au-beijing-boosts-inbound-tourism-with-new-2026-policies **Beijing Boosts Inbound Tourism with New 2026 Policies** Beijing has introduced strengthened tourism policies in 2026 aimed at attracting more international visitors like Australians, with a focus on improved services and enhanced regulatory oversight to position the capital as a premier global tr tourism Thu, 09 Apr 2026 08:38:03 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-09-au-china-policy-update-9-april-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-09-au-china-policy-update-9-april-2026 Accor has celebrated a milestone with the grand opening of its 800th hotel in Greater China, the **Sofitel Changzhou Hi-Tech District**, offering Australian travellers a luxurious new base to explore Jiangsu province's innovative landscapes. According to Hospitality Net, this shining tower provides policy Thu, 09 Apr 2026 08:29:12 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-09-au-new-flight-routes-to-china-boost-connectivity-for-australian-travellers https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-09-au-new-flight-routes-to-china-boost-connectivity-for-australian-travellers **New Flight Routes to China Boost Connectivity for Australian Travellers** Malaysia Airlines is expanding its China network with daily direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to **Shenzhen** starting 1 July 2026 and to **Changsha** from 8 July 2026, offering Australian travellers seamless connections via flights Thu, 09 Apr 2026 08:29:07 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-08-au-china-culture-update-8-april-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-08-au-china-culture-update-8-april-2026 Australian travellers planning a 2026 trip to China can immerse themselves in vibrant cultural festivals that showcase ancient traditions, lively performances, and community celebrations. While specific 2026 events in China are still emerging, iconic observances like **Lunar New Year** (starting 17 culture Wed, 08 Apr 2026 06:28:08 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-08-au-china-flights-update-8-april-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-08-au-china-flights-update-8-april-2026 **Batik Air launches new direct Kuala Lumpur-Sydney flights from 1 July 2026, offering Australian travellers a convenient one-stop option to China via Malaysia.** This daily service on Airbus A330 aircraft starts at RM749 economy (about A$240) or RM4,069 business (about A$1,300), complementing Batik flights Wed, 08 Apr 2026 06:28:07 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-08-au-china-tourism-update-8-april-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-08-au-china-tourism-update-8-april-2026 Australian travellers planning trips to China via Hong Kong should monitor Qantas and Cathay Pacific flights closely, as early April 2026 disruptions are causing delays on key routes linking Australia, Hong Kong, and onward connections to North Asia.[1][2] These issues, including extended ground hol tourism Wed, 08 Apr 2026 06:28:07 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-08-au-china-visa-update-8-april-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-08-au-china-visa-update-8-april-2026 **Australian tourists enjoy visa-free entry to China for tourism stays up to 30 days, under a policy extended through 31 December 2026.** This unilateral visa exemption, expanded since 2023 to boost inbound travel, allows Aussies to explore destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, and beyond without pri visa Wed, 08 Apr 2026 06:28:06 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-08-au-china-policy-update-8-april-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-08-au-china-policy-update-8-april-2026 **China Travel International is boosting tourism infrastructure with a HK$1.2 billion fund for upgrades like augmented-reality tours and culinary events at key attractions, including Hong Kong’s Ngong Ping 360 cable car, Shun Tak ferries, and Shenzhen’s Window of the World theme park.[1]** This stra policy Wed, 08 Apr 2026 06:28:06 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-05-au-china-travel-safety-what-australian-travellers-need-to-know-in-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-05-au-china-travel-safety-what-australian-travellers-need-to-know-in-2026 # China Travel Safety: What Australian Travellers Need to Know in 2026 While official travel advisories remain cautious, practical safety measures can help ensure a smooth trip to China in 2026. The good news is that **public transportation is largely clean, safe, and reliable**[1], and millions of tourism Mon, 06 Apr 2026 07:51:48 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-05-au-china-culture-update-5-april-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-05-au-china-culture-update-5-april-2026 The **2026 Chongqing Dazu Rock Carvings International Tourism and Cultural Festival** is a standout event for Australian travellers seeking authentic Chinese heritage experiences. Launched on April 3 in Chongqing’s Dazu District, this month-long celebration highlights UNESCO-listed rock carvings thr culture Mon, 06 Apr 2026 07:51:48 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-05-au-china-policy-update-5-april-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-05-au-china-policy-update-5-april-2026 Beijing is gearing up for the **Universal Tourism Exhibition 2026** at the China National Convention Center, a major trade platform connecting China with over 110 countries, including Australia, to boost air connectivity, hotel partnerships, and marketing for outbound and inbound travel[1]. New phas policy Mon, 06 Apr 2026 07:51:48 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-05-au-china-visa-update-5-april-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-05-au-china-visa-update-5-april-2026 **Australian tourists now benefit from China's expanded 15-day visa-free entry policy, broadened to include 50 countries as of early 2026.** This update allows hassle-free short stays for tourism, with visa-free arrivals at key gateways like Shenzhen Airport surging over 60% in Q1 2026, processing 1 visa Mon, 06 Apr 2026 07:51:48 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-05-au-beijing-daxing-airport-advises-extra-time-for-domestic-connections-during-qingmi https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-05-au-beijing-daxing-airport-advises-extra-time-for-domestic-connections-during-qingmi **Beijing Daxing Airport Advises Extra Time for Domestic Connections During Qingming Festival** Australian travellers connecting through Beijing Daxing International Airport should plan for potential delays and cancellations on domestic flights, as China's aviation network experiences high pressure tourism Mon, 06 Apr 2026 07:51:48 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-05-au-china-flights-update-5-april-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-05-au-china-flights-update-5-april-2026 **China Eastern Airlines is launching a new direct route from Shanghai to Adelaide in 2026, offering Australian travellers convenient access to one of China's major aviation hubs.** This seasonal service will operate three times weekly from **20 June to 2 August 2026**, aligning perfectly with the s flights Mon, 06 Apr 2026 07:51:48 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-05-au-exciting-new-high-speed-rail-routes-opening-for-tourists-in-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-05-au-exciting-new-high-speed-rail-routes-opening-for-tourists-in-2026 ### Exciting New High-Speed Rail Routes Opening for Tourists in 2026 China's high-speed rail network is expanding rapidly, making it easier than ever for Australian travellers to explore the country's diverse destinations. In early 2026, two major new routes launched on 15 February, connecting Beij tourism Mon, 06 Apr 2026 07:51:48 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-05-au-china-tourism-update-5-april-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-05-au-china-tourism-update-5-april-2026 **Rosewood Chengdu, Rosewood Hangzhou, and Rosewood Shenzhen** are among the most anticipated luxury hotel openings in China for 2026, promising elevated stays for Australian travellers exploring the country's vibrant cities and cultural treasures.[4] Rosewood, a Hong Kong-based luxury brand renown tourism Mon, 06 Apr 2026 07:51:48 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-05-au-china-extends-visa-free-entry-for-australian-tourists-through-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-05-au-china-extends-visa-free-entry-for-australian-tourists-through-2026 ### China Extends Visa-Free Entry for Australian Tourists Through 2026 Great news for Aussie travellers: As of January 2026, China has extended its visa-free policy for Australian passport holders, allowing stays of up to 30 days for tourism, business, or transit purposes. This mutual agreement, bu visa Sun, 05 Apr 2026 03:08:02 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-02-au-australia-china-travel-news-april-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-02-au-australia-china-travel-news-april-2026 # Australia-China Travel News: April 2026 **Four nations unite on sustainable tourism initiative.** Japan has joined China, the United States and Australia in a new global overtourism pact targeting 100 of the world's most heavily visited destinations by 2030.[1] China's involvement reflects both t tourism Thu, 02 Apr 2026 23:38:37 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-02-au-china-visa-update-2-april-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-02-au-china-visa-update-2-april-2026 **Australian tourists enjoy a 30-day visa-free entry to China, allowing seamless access for tourism and exploration of its vibrant cities and landscapes.** This policy, confirmed as active in 2025 and extended into 2026 without noted changes, permits Australian passport holders to stay continuously visa Thu, 02 Apr 2026 23:38:37 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-02-au-china-flights-update-2-april-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-02-au-china-flights-update-2-april-2026 **China Eastern Airlines is launching a new direct route from Shanghai to Adelaide** for Australian travellers, operating three times weekly from June 20 to August 2, 2026, as part of its expanded 2026 summer-autumn schedule with over 3,200 daily flights across 950 routes.[1][5] This seasonal servic flights Thu, 02 Apr 2026 23:38:37 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-02-au-china-policy-update-2-april-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-02-au-china-policy-update-2-april-2026 China's tourism infrastructure is advancing rapidly in 2026, with major investments enhancing attractions, transport links, and digital accessibility for Australian travellers exploring the mainland and Hong Kong.[1][2][6] Key upgrades include a HK$1.2 billion fund by China Travel International to m policy Thu, 02 Apr 2026 23:38:37 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-02-au-china-culture-update-2-april-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-02-au-china-culture-update-2-april-2026 Australian travellers can experience authentic Chinese culture through several festivals and events happening across the country in 2026, from traditional celebrations to spectacular performances. ## Upcoming Chinese Cultural Events **Shen Yun 2026** has already concluded (it ran 6-15 March at Mel culture Thu, 02 Apr 2026 23:38:37 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-02-au-china-tourism-update-2-april-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-04-02-au-china-tourism-update-2-april-2026 **The Dali EDITION**, a luxurious new resort in Yunnan Province, China, is set to open in late April 2026, offering Australian travellers an exciting gateway to the region's stunning natural beauty.[1] Nestled with panoramic views of **Cangshan Mountain** and **Erhai Lake**, this 150-room property f tourism Thu, 02 Apr 2026 23:38:37 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-29-au-china-cultural-festivals-april-may https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-29-au-china-cultural-festivals-april-may April and May 2026 offer a rich calendar of cultural events across China that international visitors can enjoy. The Qingming Festival (April 4) features traditional tomb-sweeping ceremonies and kite-flying activities, particularly spectacular in Weifang, Shandong province. The Luoyang Peony Festiva culture Sat, 28 Mar 2026 19:00:00 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-27-au-zhangjiajie-glass-bridge-reopens https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-27-au-zhangjiajie-glass-bridge-reopens Zhangjiajie's famous glass-bottomed bridge has reopened following a three-month renovation that includes expanded viewing platforms, improved safety railings, and a new glass-floor skywalk extension offering panoramic views of the sandstone pillar formations that inspired the movie Avatar. The brid tourism Thu, 26 Mar 2026 19:00:00 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-23-au-yangtze-cruise-season-luxury-vessels https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-23-au-yangtze-cruise-season-luxury-vessels The 2026 Yangtze River cruise season has officially commenced, with two new luxury vessels joining the fleet. The Century Harmony and Victoria Grace both feature private balcony cabins, onboard spas, and English-speaking activity coordinators. The standard 4-night downstream cruise from Chongqing t tourism Sun, 22 Mar 2026 19:00:00 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-21-au-beijing-daxing-airport-procedures https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-21-au-beijing-daxing-airport-procedures Beijing Daxing International Airport has introduced streamlined immigration procedures for international arrivals, reducing average processing times from 45 minutes to approximately 20 minutes. The improvements include additional automated passport gates and multilingual assistance staff. Australia policy Fri, 20 Mar 2026 19:00:00 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-19-au-australia-china-tourism-forum-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-19-au-australia-china-tourism-forum-2026 The Australia-China Tourism Forum, held in Melbourne on March 18, reported that Australian visitor numbers to China reached 485,000 in 2025, surpassing pre-pandemic levels for the first time. Projections for 2026 suggest numbers could exceed 550,000. Key growth drivers cited include the expanded vi tourism Wed, 18 Mar 2026 19:00:00 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-15-au-great-wall-marathon-2026-registration https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-15-au-great-wall-marathon-2026-registration Registration for the 2026 Great Wall Marathon has officially opened, with the event scheduled for May 16, 2026. The iconic race takes runners along a course that includes sections of the Huangyaguan Great Wall in Tianjin province, featuring over 5,000 stone steps. Australian runners have been among culture Sat, 14 Mar 2026 19:00:00 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-11-au-china-digital-tourist-card-payments https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-11-au-china-digital-tourist-card-payments China has launched a new Digital Tourist Card that allows international visitors to make cashless payments across the country without needing a Chinese bank account. The card, available through WeChat Pay and Alipay, can be loaded with funds via Visa, Mastercard, or UnionPay. Australian travellers policy Tue, 10 Mar 2026 19:00:00 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-09-au-cherry-blossom-china-spring-2026 https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-09-au-cherry-blossom-china-spring-2026 China's cherry blossom season is set to begin in late March, with peak viewing expected from March 25 to April 15 across most regions. Wuhan's East Lake Cherry Blossom Park remains the premier destination, with over 10,000 trees creating spectacular displays. Other top locations include Kunming's Y culture Sun, 08 Mar 2026 19:00:00 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-07-au-xian-chengdu-high-speed-rail https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-07-au-xian-chengdu-high-speed-rail China's latest high-speed rail upgrade has reduced travel time between Xi'an and Chengdu to just 3 hours, down from the previous 3 hours 45 minutes. The upgraded line operates at speeds up to 350 km/h and features modern carriages with improved amenities. For Australian travellers, this makes combi policy Fri, 06 Mar 2026 19:00:00 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-05-au-shanghai-disneyland-zootopia-expansion https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-05-au-shanghai-disneyland-zootopia-expansion Shanghai Disneyland has confirmed that its highly anticipated Zootopia-themed expansion — the park's eighth themed land — will officially open to visitors on April 18, 2026. The expansion features three new rides, themed dining experiences, and character meet-and-greet opportunities. The announceme tourism Wed, 04 Mar 2026 19:00:00 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-03-au-qantas-sydney-chengdu-direct https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-03-au-qantas-sydney-chengdu-direct Qantas has announced a new three-times-weekly direct service from Sydney to Chengdu, launching May 1, 2026. The route will operate on Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft with a flight time of approximately 11 hours. Chengdu, home to the famous Giant Panda Research Base and gateway to Sichuan's stunning flights Mon, 02 Mar 2026 19:00:00 GMT https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-01-au-china-extends-240-hour-visa-free-transit https://explorechinaholidays.com/news/2026-03-01-au-china-extends-240-hour-visa-free-transit China has officially confirmed the extension of its 240-hour visa-free transit policy for Australian passport holders through the end of 2026. The policy, which was initially introduced as a temporary measure, now covers 54 ports of entry across 38 Chinese cities. Travellers transiting through majo visa Sat, 28 Feb 2026 19:00:00 GMT