Russia-China travel surges after visa-free deal sparks tourism boom

Travel between Russia and China is booming, with passenger numbers rising sharply in recent months. A new visa-free agreement has made cross-border trips easier, and demand for river cruises has surged. Prices have also shifted as more tourists take advantage of the relaxed rules. In May 2026, the river cruise ship 70 Let Pobedy carried 1,800 passengers between Khabarovsk and Fuyuan—a nearly sixfold increase from the same month last year. The route has become especially popular among Russian tourists exploring China.

The cost of travel has adjusted to meet demand. As of June 2, a one-way weekday ticket on the vessel now costs 5,750 rubles, down almost 30% from previous rates. On weekends and public holidays, the fare rises to 6,500 rubles. The regional Transport Ministry confirms a broader trend: mutual tourist flows between the two countries have grown by 30%. The visa-free travel agreement, in place until the end of 2027, allows citizens to stay in the neighbouring country for up to 30 days without a visa.

The sharp rise in cross-border travel reflects stronger ties between Russia and China. With lower weekday fares and simplified entry rules, more tourists are expected to take advantage of the route. The current agreement ensures visa-free access for at least another year and a half.