With China relaxing its visa policies, an increasing number of international travelers are pouring into the country. Xu Xinchen spoke to some tourists who are visiting Southwest China to experience the Spring Festival atmosphere.
XU XINCHEN Chengdu "Happy New Year from Chengdu, the land of pandas, spicy food, and nonstop fun! I'm diving headfirst into the Spring Festival vibes – time to chase down all the festive magic!"
I'm not exploring alone!
With Ruirui, a true Chengdu local, we're on this festive journey with friends from near and far.
XUE RUIRUI Reporter, CICC of Chengdu Media Group "What I found out is there are more international tourists coming to visit Chengdu and now it's Spring Festival, it's a great time to celebrate and to experience city and Chinese culture."
Together, we welcome new friends: the Saidi sisters from Malaysia, visiting Chengdu for the first time.
Reporter: "Hello, welcome to Chengdu."
Reporter: "Have fun already?"
Tourist: "Chengdu is really nice."
Tourist: "And we appreciate the colder weather here."
Located in Southwest China, Chengdu is famous for its pandas and spicy food. While it isn't particularly cold, compared to Malaysia, the weather here is refreshingly cool.
The streets are alive with Spring Festival decorations as we welcome the Year of the Snake.
Before diving into other activities, the sisters couldn't resist taking selfies with the panda-themed decorations.
Next, the People's Park.
Reporter: "It's a one of the most very destinations for not only tourists but also for locals."
Tourist: "That's great."
Reporter: "Now, it's decorated into Spring Festival vibe."
Tourist: "It is very likely."
Tea culture thrives here, and Kung Fu Tea is an impressive display not to be missed.
The Saidi sisters have visited China multiple times.
They're here again to soak in the Spring Festival atmosphere.
NORFARAHIN MOHD SAIDI Tourist "I think, it's most interesting scenery because we don't really have this mountain with lakes and the blue turquoise lakes and we don't have snow capped mountains. We don't have it in Malaysia."
NUFARHANA MOHD SAIDI Tourist "So China is one of the best choices for us Malaysians. We have direct flights and for us Muslims, it's Muslim friendly here. We have halal food here."
Reporter: "Are you planning to come back more?"
NURFATIAH MOHD SAIDI Tourist "I hope yeah. With my twins again."
As night falls, the city sparkles with traditional lantern displays – perfect for more selfies.
QIN MAO Travel Specialist "International travelers seek unique experiences unavailable in their own countries. Southeast Asian visitors are drawn to Chengdu's snow-capped mountains and plateaus, while European and American tourists visit for pandas, historical architecture, cultural performances, and Hanfu experiences."
With its cityscape brilliantly lit up against the night sky, Chengdu seems to never sleep.
Beyond its vibrant modernity and festive charm, China's commitment to opening up ensures international travelers are welcomed with warmth and endless opportunities for adventure.
Xu Xinchen, CGTN, Chengdu.