China’s Guangxi and Vietnam Strengthen Tourism Ties Through Cultural Exchange and New Cross-Border Initiatives

A cultural exchange featuring the tourism
 of Guangxi province. (Photo: VOV)

Vietnam and China are forging deeper tourism ties through cultural exchanges and innovative cross-border initiatives aimed at boosting bilateral tourism and fostering stronger people-to-people connections. A key event in this collaboration took place in Hanoi on November 27, where the tourism of China’s Guangxi province was prominently featured.

At the cultural exchange event, Ho An Phong, Vietnam's Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, emphasized the longstanding friendship between the two nations and the substantial progress made in their cooperation across various sectors, including culture and tourism. Phong noted that the shared border and cultural similarities between Vietnam and China have created favorable conditions for enhanced tourism exchanges, socioeconomic development, and mutual growth.

Growing Tourism Ties

Vietnam and China have long been important partners in tourism. Before the pandemic, China was one of Vietnam's largest tourism markets. In 2019, Vietnam welcomed 5.8 million Chinese visitors, accounting for nearly a third of all international arrivals, while roughly 4.5 million Vietnamese tourists traveled to China. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Vietnam has seen a strong recovery. In 2023, over 1.7 million Chinese visitors came to Vietnam, regaining 30% of pre-pandemic numbers. The trend has continued in 2024, with more than 3 million Chinese tourists visiting Vietnam by October, a 130% increase over the same period in 2023.

Recognizing the untapped potential for even greater collaboration, Phong called for deepened bilateral cultural and tourism exchanges in the future. With continued government support, the two countries have launched several cross-border tourism initiatives aimed at attracting more visitors and enhancing the travel experience for both Vietnamese and Chinese tourists.

Cross-Border Tourism Initiatives

One of the key developments in this growing partnership is the opening of the Ban Gioc (Vietnam) - Detian (China) Waterfall landscape site, which offers an exciting new opportunity for transnational tourism. This stunning natural site, shared by both countries, is now officially open to tourists, making it easier for travelers to explore the beauty of the area on both sides of the border.

In addition, the Beihai (Guangxi, China) – Ha Long (Quang Ninh, Vietnam) sea route is now operational, offering a unique maritime experience for travelers. This new route connects two popular tourist destinations, allowing visitors to enjoy scenic sea journeys while exploring the vibrant cultures of both nations.

Looking Ahead: 75th Anniversary and Beyond

Chen Yijun, a member of the standing board of the Guangxi Party Committee and head of the Committee’s Publicity Department, expressed her hope for further strengthened cultural and tourism cooperation. She highlighted the upcoming 75th anniversary of Vietnam-China diplomatic relations in 2025 as a key milestone for advancing bilateral ties. Future initiatives are planned to promote cross-border tourism and develop new tourism models, including cultural experiences, eco-resort stays, and youth exchange programs to foster traditional friendship between the people of both countries.

The event also introduced Guangxi’s unique tourism offerings, which include its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and diverse cultural heritage. Special winter tourism packages tailored for Vietnamese travelers were presented, inviting them to explore Guangxi’s natural beauty and cultural treasures during the colder months.

Agreements and New Opportunities for Travel Companies

A significant highlight of the event was the signing of cross-border tourism cooperation agreements between Vietnamese and Chinese travel companies. These agreements are designed to enhance mutual market access, expand tourism offerings, and facilitate the exchange of visitors. Minh The Long, Deputy General Director of Kim Lien Travel, praised the event as an excellent opportunity for travel businesses from both countries to explore cultural and tourism resources. He noted that the similarities and differences in the natural landscapes, cuisine, and culture of Vietnam and China make both countries attractive destinations for tourists seeking diverse experiences.

Long also expressed his hope that travel companies on both sides will continue to work together to promote tourism, encouraging more visitors to explore the beauty of each nation and strengthening the cultural and tourism bond between Vietnam and China.

A Bright Future for Tourism Cooperation

As Vietnam and China deepen their tourism cooperation through cultural exchanges and innovative cross-border initiatives, the future looks promising for both countries. By enhancing travel opportunities, introducing new tourism products, and fostering stronger connections between their peoples, both nations are set to benefit from a robust and growing tourism partnership in the years to come.

With these exciting new developments, travelers are encouraged to explore the rich cultural landscapes of both Vietnam and China, discovering the many shared treasures and experiences that make these neighboring nations unique yet interconnected.