China resumed visa exemption for short-term Japanese visitors November 30.

The Chinese government reinstated the exemption after over 4 years since it stopped on March 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The previously 15-day visa waiver has now been extended to 30 days.

The exemption for short-term visas is set to last until the end of 2025.

A tourism company in Sichuan Province where giant pandas live are anticipating Japanese tourists.

S/ Tourism company in Sichuan Province/ Since there’s no need for visas now (for short-term stays), I expect lots of Xiang Xiang fans to visit. They are welcome here.

The move by the Chinese government is seen to welcome Japanese tourists and business people among others in an aim to boost the economy as it continues to slow in growth.