Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increasing influx of foreign tourists to China due to relaxed visa policies, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges in accommodating these visitors effectively [2][3][28]. Visa Policy Impact - The National Immigration Administration reported that in the first eight months of this year, the number of foreign visitors entering China under visa exemptions reached 15.89 million, a year-on-year increase of 52.1%, accounting for 62.1% of total foreign arrivals [3]. - Projections suggest that by 2025, the total number of foreign visitors could exceed 35 million, approaching Japan's anticipated 37 million [3]. Challenges Faced by Foreign Tourists - Foreign tourists often encounter difficulties related to accommodation, ticket booking, and payment systems, which can detract from their overall experience [5][6]. - Issues such as the requirement for specific types of identification photos (49mm x 35mm) can lead to confusion and inconvenience for foreigners [8]. - The lack of multilingual guides and the cultural gap in communication further complicate the experience for foreign visitors [9][10]. Systemic Barriers - Foreign residents in China face significant challenges due to the reliance on local identification systems, which limits their access to various services [19][20]. - The payment systems in China are primarily designed around local banking and mobile payment solutions, creating barriers for foreigners who do not have local credit histories [19][20]. Government Initiatives - Recent government policies aim to enhance the travel experience for foreigners, including the introduction of integrated social security cards for foreign workers in Shenyang and innovative products like "Chuangyoutong" and "Mifang Card" in Beijing [26][27]. - The Ministry of Commerce has also expanded the "immediate refund" tax policy to facilitate easier tax refunds for foreign tourists [28]. Conclusion - While there are significant challenges for foreign tourists and residents in China, ongoing improvements in policies and services indicate a commitment to creating a more welcoming environment [22][28].