ST. PETERSBURG — Chinese tourists are returning to Russia in large numbers after Moscow lifted visa requirements, offering relief to a battered tourism industry while reviving old tensions with locals.
On a recent train from Moscow to St. Petersburg, Chinese travelers filled half a carriage as part of one of the first organized tour groups since visa-free entry took effect last month. The policy shift follows years of disruption caused by the pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which sharply reduced foreign arrivals.
President Vladimir Putin signed the decree in December, allowing Chinese citizens to stay in Russia for up to 30 days without a visa. The rules also apply to business, scientific and sporting travel, mirroring China’s decision in September 2025 to grant Russians similar access.
Boost for struggling tourism sector
Industry officials say the move is already delivering results. The Association of Tour Operators of Russia expects Chinese arrivals to rise by about 30 percent, while some analysts forecast growth of up to 50 percent. Hotel bookings by Chinese travelers rose roughly 50 percent year-on-year in December, according to industry executives.
Although Moscow and St. Petersburg remain the main destinations, more Chinese visitors are also traveling to Russia’s Far East and northern regions for experiences such as northern lights tours and reindeer or dog sledding. Russia has been China’s largest source of inbound tourism since 2014, when arrivals surged after the ruble’s collapse following the annexation of Crimea.
Cultural friction resurfaces
However, the influx has also revived familiar frictions. Locals complain about cultural differences, overcrowding and pressure on popular attractions. Similar tensions surfaced before the pandemic, when officials warned that large tour groups were crowding out domestic visitors at major sites near St. Petersburg.
Despite the concerns, authorities appear determined to keep the door open, viewing Chinese tourism as a vital economic lifeline at a time of limited Western travel.
