Hainan Free Trade Port Anticipates Record Spring Festival Travelers

Hainan, China's tropical island province, is gearing up for an unprecedented surge in travel during the upcoming Spring Festival, buoyed by its recently implemented special customs operations.

With a favorable climate characterized by year-round warmth, with average winter temperatures around 22 degrees Celsius, Hainan stands as an attractive destination for travelers seeking winter sunshine.

During the six-week Spring Festival travel period, from February 2 to March 13, Hainan is anticipated to handle over 22 million trips. This marks a 5 percent increase compared to the previous year, according to Mu Kerui from the Hainan Transportation Department.

Passenger and vehicle ferry travel is expected to rise by over 10 percent, while air travel is forecasted to grow by 3.7 percent, indicating that this year's metrics are poised to reach all-time highs for the season.

The special customs initiative, which began on December 18 of last year, has already led to a notable spike in inbound tourists. In the first month, the Hainan Free Trade Port welcomed 186,000 foreign visitors, reflecting a remarkable 46 percent increase from the previous year.

Close to half of these visitors, specifically 87,000, entered visa-free under the expanded policy, which now accommodates travelers from 86 countries, an increase from the former cap of 59 countries.

The rise in tourist arrivals from key Western nations has been significant, with the UK up by 10 percent, France by 24.1 percent, Germany by 13.7 percent, and Italy by 23.4 percent, among others, demonstrating the allure of the island.

During the recent New Year holiday, Hainan attracted over 2.17 million tourists within merely three days, representing a considerable increase exceeding 25 percent compared to the same period in 2025.

In celebration of the Chinese New Year, Hainan has organized 165 festive activities. From the dazzling fireworks above Qionghai Port in Bo'ao to the vibrant garden parties held during the Lantern Festival in Danzhou, these events promise to deliver a unique Hainan experience.