Core Viewpoint - The development of inbound tourism in China is accelerating towards marketization and specialization, with the launch of the English version of Gaode Map's ride-hailing service providing a seamless travel experience for international visitors [1][3]. Group 1: Inbound Tourism Growth - Recent simplifications in China's visa policies and extended transit visa-free periods have injected growth momentum into the inbound tourism market, with 380,000 foreign visitors entering during the recent "May Day" holiday, a 72.7% increase compared to the previous year [3]. - China is becoming a favored travel destination globally, as indicated by the significant increase in foreign visitors [3]. Group 2: Gaode Map's Internationalization Efforts - Gaode Map launched its English version earlier this year to enhance its international service capabilities, featuring a fully English interface and detailed information on attractions, restaurants, and transportation hubs [3]. - The recent addition of ride-hailing services in the English version of Gaode Map marks a new milestone in its international service capabilities, covering over 360 cities and collaborating with nearly 100 transportation companies [3][4]. Group 3: User Experience and Feedback - Users, such as Diana engaged in cross-border trade in Shenzhen, have reported positive experiences with the English interface, quick ride-hailing, and clear cost displays, highlighting the impact of technological upgrades on enhancing China's service reputation internationally [4]. - The integration of advanced features like estimated time of arrival (ETA) and real-time traffic conditions in the ride-hailing service enhances user experience and efficiency [3][4]. Group 4: Industry Insights - Experts emphasize that building international service capabilities is crucial for high-level opening-up in the new era, urging companies to leverage technological innovation to enhance their international service capabilities [4]. - Gaode is positioning itself as the primary entry point for international visitors in China, leveraging its leading foundational service capabilities and extensive travel ecosystem [4].

Core Insights - Guangzhou's inbound overnight tourists reached 1.187 million in Q1 2025, marking an 11.7% year-on-year increase, with foreign visitors accounting for 498,000, a 31.0% rise [1] - From January 1 to May 22 this year, over 480,000 foreign nationals entered through Baiyun Airport, a 141% increase year-on-year, with total foreign traveler movements exceeding 2.23 million, up 42% [1] - Data from Ctrip indicates a 57.86% year-on-year increase in total inbound tourists to Guangzhou, with total spending rising by 68.63%, particularly strong growth from Southeast Asian markets [3] Inbound Tourism Growth - Guangzhou's inbound tourism is benefiting from a "full-chain facilitation" reform, enhancing the travel experience for international visitors [3] - The city has added and restored six international passenger routes this year, introducing two international airlines and expanding two international aviation points [3] - Southeast Asian markets are showing significant growth, with Thai visitors increasing by 180%, Malaysian by 153%, and Indonesian by 117% [3] Cultural and Tourism Integration - Guangzhou is leveraging its cultural elements to enhance tourism supply, with projects like Beijing Road Cultural Tourism Area and Yongqingfang integrating "intangible cultural heritage + technology" and "food + festivals" [4] - New cultural landmarks such as the Guangzhou Cultural Center and Art Museum have become popular spots for inbound tourists, while the "Guangzhou Gifts" brand promotes local culinary and cultural products [4] - In Q1 2025, the per capita spending of inbound tourists in Guangzhou has recovered to 110% of the same period in 2019, indicating a sustained potential for cultural and tourism consumption [4] Future Initiatives - Guangzhou aims to improve inbound travel convenience by enhancing customs efficiency, payment environments, communication services, and expanding international direct flight networks [4] - The city is developing differentiated tourism products by linking with nearby regions to create a "rural revitalization" demonstration belt, featuring unique resources like river cruises and wellness tourism [5] - Efforts to boost shopping consumption among inbound tourists include enhancing tax refund services and promoting "buy and refund" policies, as well as optimizing the layout of tax refund stores [5]

Core Insights - The inbound tourism service system in China is rapidly upgrading towards marketization and specialization, driven by the implementation of the inbound tourism promotion plan [1] - Recent simplifications in visa policies and extended transit visa-free periods have injected growth momentum into the inbound tourism market, with 380,000 foreign visitors entering China during the recent "May Day" holiday, marking a 72.7% increase compared to the same period last year [1] - Gaode Map has launched an English version of its app, which includes a ride-hailing service, making it easier for international visitors to travel within China [1] Summary by Sections - **Inbound Tourism Growth** - China's inbound tourism market is experiencing significant growth due to simplified visa policies and extended transit visa-free periods [1] - The National Immigration Administration reported that 380,000 foreign visitors entered China during the "May Day" holiday, a 72.7% increase year-on-year [1] - **Gaode Map's English Version** - Gaode Map's English version was launched to facilitate travel for international visitors, featuring an all-English interface and detailed information on attractions, restaurants, and transportation hubs [1] - The ride-hailing service covers over 360 cities in China and collaborates with nearly 100 transportation companies to meet user demands quickly [1] - **User Experience Enhancements** - The English version of Gaode Map includes features such as estimated arrival times and countdowns for traffic lights, aiding international visitors in navigating routes and timing accurately [1] - User feedback highlights the app's friendly interface and clarity in displaying different routes and vehicle costs, enhancing convenience for foreign travelers [1]