Vietnam and China are expanding their cross-border tourism offerings with the introduction of new travel products aimed at enriching the experience of tourists visiting both countries. In a bid to enhance regional connectivity, Vietnam and China have launched a series of initiatives to create vibrant tourism packages that combine the rich culture, scenic beauty, and culinary experiences of both nations. These offerings are particularly focused on the Youyi Guan (Friendship Pass) border area, which serves as a gateway for visitors between the two nations.
As Vietnam continues to establish itself as a leading tourism destination in Southeast Asia, and China seeks to boost its tourism activities, both countries have leveraged their geographical proximity to create unique travel experiences. Pingxiang, located in China’s Guangxi province, has particularly benefited from these initiatives, creating new attractions for cross-border travelers, including scenic sites like the newly inaugurated Puzhai scenic site. These efforts align with the booming summer tourism season, providing tourists with not only new destinations but also efficient and easy ways to explore both countries.
The Growing Cross-Border Tourism Between Vietnam and China
In recent years, the relationship between Vietnam and China has fostered cooperation in many sectors, including tourism. The Puzhai scenic site, located in Pingxiang, is a new addition to the tourism portfolio, offering a variety of activities that appeal to both Chinese and Vietnamese tourists. Notably, tourists from China can now access Vietnam’s Lang Son province with ease, thanks to the simplified visa and exit procedures, which allow them to use their national identity cards for entry.
According to official statistics from China, over 61,800 outbound tourists passed through the Youyi Guan border gate in the first seven months of 2025, marking a 85.31% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This surge in tourists is indicative of the growing popularity of cross-border travel, particularly among those seeking short-term, cost-effective trips that encompass both natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Key Attractions and New Tourism Experiences
Pingxiang, with its strategic location along the Vietnam-China border, has launched several new tourism offerings designed to captivate both international and local travelers. Some of the most notable experiences include:
- The Puzhai Scenic Site: This newly inaugurated site features natural landscapes, making it a perfect spot for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.
- Youyi Guan Scenic Area: An iconic site that draws thousands of visitors each year, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the unique culture of both nations.
- Camping and Self-Driving Tours: As part of its expanded tourism offerings,?Pingxiang?has introduced outdoor camping areas and self-driving tours through the border gate, allowing tourists to explore the surrounding regions at their own pace.
With these innovations, Pingxiang is becoming a key destination for both Chinese tourists and those from Vietnam, offering an authentic cross-border experience. This new era of tourism not only strengthens the bond between the two nations but also fosters mutual cultural understanding and exchange.
15-Day Tour of Southern Vietnam: A New Collaborative Initiative
To further enhance the tourism offerings, Pingxiang has partnered with Vietnamese travel companies to create a 15-day, 14-night tour of southern Vietnam. The tour, which is aimed at providing Chinese tourists with an immersive experience in Vietnam, will include visits to popular destinations such as Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho, and Phu Quoc Island, among others.
This collaboration highlights the importance of bilateral partnerships in promoting tourism, as both countries work together to provide visitors with seamless and enjoyable travel experiences. With the support of local travel agencies and the easing of travel regulations, these cross-border tours are expected to attract increasing numbers of tourists, boosting both economies.
The Economic and Cultural Impact of Cross-Border Tourism
The rise in cross-border tourism is expected to have a profound impact on both Vietnam and China’s tourism industries. The Youyi Guan border gate, which connects the two countries, has become a symbol of collaboration, with more tourists utilizing the route for quick and easy access to both nations. This, in turn, is boosting local economies in the regions surrounding the border and contributing to the development of the tourism infrastructure in both Guangxi and Lang Son.
In addition to the economic benefits, cross-border tourism plays a vital role in enhancing cultural exchange. Visitors from both China and Vietnam are now able to experience the unique customs, cuisine, and traditions of their neighboring country. From sampling Vietnamese spring rolls and filter coffee to exploring Chinese historical sites and enjoying local delicacies, tourists are gaining a deeper understanding of each other’s cultures.
Growing Tourism Statistics: A Bright Future for Cross-Border Travel
As part of the ongoing effort to foster closer ties between China and Vietnam, tourism statistics reveal the growing popularity of cross-border travel. In 2025, Pingxiang alone recorded 2.48 million cross-border tourist arrivals, underscoring the region’s increasing role as a central hub for international tourism. The expansion of border tourism infrastructure, along with the introduction of new travel experiences, is expected to further drive these numbers in the coming years.
The rise in cross-border travel is a direct result of both countries’ investments in improving infrastructure, making it easier for tourists to access key destinations. With Vietnam aiming to attract 25 million foreign visitors by 2025, initiatives like those in Pingxiang will play a critical role in meeting this goal.
Conclusion: The Future of Vietnam-China Cross-Border Tourism
The future of cross-border tourism between Vietnam and China looks increasingly promising, with both countries making significant strides in creating new, diverse travel products. The establishment of the Puzhai scenic site, the introduction of self-driving tours, and the launch of the 15-day southern Vietnam tour are just a few examples of the innovative offerings that will continue to attract tourists.
As Pingxiang and Lang Son grow in prominence as key cross-border destinations, the tourism sectors in both countries will benefit from increased cultural exchange and economic collaboration. With more Chinese and Vietnamese tourists discovering the rich cultural and natural offerings of their neighboring countries, the region is poised for continued growth and prosperity in the tourism industry.
Bullet Points:
- Vietnam?and?China?collaborate to create diverse?cross-border tourism products.
- Pingxiang,?Guangxi, and?Lang Son?serve as central hubs for cross-border tourism.
- 15-day tour of southern Vietnam?launched to attract Chinese tourists.
- Youyi Guan?border gate sees a?85.31% increase?in outbound tourists from China in 2025.
- New?outdoor activities, such as?camping?and?self-driving tours, offered in?Pingxiang.
