Global Influencers Explore Changsha under 240-Hour Visa-Free Policy

"Winters in China can be cold, but the fireworks show in Changsha is very spectacular and uplifting. Changsha is a city worth sharing," said Ahmad, an internet-famous Malaysian blogger travelling in Changsha, after watching a special music fireworks show with the theme of "Winter Solstice" at the Liuyang Sky Theater on the evening of December 21.

"It's breathtaking!" exclaimed Mounaottmani, a Moroccan girl. "Everyone should witness such beauty! It brings such joy!" She added that, even with her extensive travels, Liuyang's fireworks had broadened her horizons.

Along with Ahmad and Mounaottmani, influential bloggers from Indonesia, Italy, Vietnam, Japan, and other countries have also visited Changsha. They boast of audiences ranging from dozens to millions of followers.

In Changsha, Gabriele from Italy experienced traditional culture such as acrobatics, Hunan embroidery, and Liuyang Xiabu cloth, and he also wrote his first calligraphy work with Chinese characters "大吉". "It's so beautiful here. People are smiling. This is why I like it. I think this is a smiling city."

A foreign blogger learns Chinese calligraphy. 

In recent years, Hunan has accelerated the process of becoming a cultural powerhouse and a world-famous tourism destination, vigorously enhancing recognition of the brand "Welcome to Charming Hunan." Scrolling through social media, Indonesian blogger Achmad stumbled upon a video showcasing Hunan's vibrant culture. Changsha, in particular, captivated him, becoming his travel destination of choice. "I love Changsha! It's such a vibrant city—a captivating blend of punk art and traditional beauty! I even went searching for photos online!"

A foreign blogger experiences monocycle riding. 

From Chaozong Street to Taiping Street, and from Hunan Acrobatics Troupes to the Nanmu Museum, Achmad and his companion were on full-time video-recording mode. "Amazing!" was the word of the day, frequently shared with their online fans. A double-sided embroidered Thangka at the Xiang Embroidery Museum particularly captivated Ahmed's companion, who learned that the intricate piece took ten years to complete.

Foreign bloggers show their rubbing artworks. (Photos provided by the organizer)

Kato, who is from Japan, likes Chinese culture very much. He opened TikTok and Xiaohongshu accounts very early, and now Kato has millions of followers. This is his third visit to Changsha. "The Mawangdui Han Tombs are world-famous. I missed the popular site on my first two trips because I failed to make an appointment. But I finally visited this time." When it comes to introducing Hunan to his fans, Kato revealed that he will make some videos, enabling viewers to have an in-depth experience of Hunan.

Recently the National Immigration Administration (NIA) announced that it would fully relax and optimize the visa-free transit policy. The stay duration for foreign nationals eligible for visa-free transit has been extended from the previous 72 hours and 144 hours to 240 hours (10 days). Additionally, 21 ports of entry and exit have been added for visa-free transit individuals. Currently, Changsha Huanghua International Airport and Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport are under the 240-hour visa-free transit policy, providing more convenient travel experiences for foreign tourists.