Zhangjiajie, China – Recent Visa data reveals that Zhangjiajie, renowned for its breathtaking peaks and misty landscapes, has claimed the 7th spot on the 2025 first-half Visa card transaction volume list for international tourists visiting China. This ranking highlights Zhangjiajie as one of the fastest-growing destinations in China’s inbound tourism market.
Famous for its unique natural scenery, Zhangjiajie has long captivated global travelers. In recent years, the city has boosted its international appeal through innovative tourism products, expanded international flight routes, intensified global marketing efforts, and deepened partnerships with overseas travel agencies. Enhanced infrastructure, including transportation, accommodations, dining, and payment systems, has further elevated the travel experience, offering international visitors seamless and comfortable journeys.
According to Zhangjiajie’s smart tourism platform, from January to July 2025, the city welcomed 722,300 international tourists, generating $376 million in tourism revenue—a year-on-year increase of 14.2% and 16.42%, respectively. This surge underscores Zhangjiajie’s robust consumer appeal. The top 10 source markets for visitors include South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, the United States, Thailand, Russia, and France. Notably, South Korea stands out, with Zhangjiajie’s cultural branding as a “sacred destination for filial piety” resonating strongly with emotional tourism demands, driving significant visitor growth.
In terms of payment convenience, Visa and other international payment systems are widely accepted across Zhangjiajie’s key tourism touchpoints, including attractions, hotels, and transportation. From ticket purchases to local souvenir shopping, the “tap-to-pay” experience ensures hassle-free transactions, making “worry-free payments” a cornerstone of Zhangjiajie’s international tourism brand.
Online discussions highlight Zhangjiajie’s rising Visa spending rank as a sign of a broader trend: China’s inbound tourism is expanding beyond major cities to unique destinations. Travelers and enthusiasts are eager to see Zhangjiajie continue to shine on the global tourism stage.