The China-Kazakhstan border has seen a boost in tourism traffic in 2025 after China and Kazakhstan agreed to allow their citizens to travel without a visa. Jeminay Port, as a key portal in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China, has also turned into a hot spring for cross-border travelers. The measure allows people from either country to visit the other for 30 days without a visa, promoting a more fluid movement and economic interchange.

Cross-border travel through Xinjiang’s Altay region has spiked in the wake of the policy at Jeminay Port. The port had seen over 49,000 tourists and 12,000 vehicles by mid-July 2025, a record for this time of year. The daily crossing of the border has reached more than 830, thanks to the increasing willingness to travel back and forth between China and Kazakhstan, particularly in the summer vacation season.

Impact of the China-Kazakhstan Visa Exemption Policy

The China-Kazakhstan visa exemption policy, which came into effect earlier this year, has simplified cross-border travel, with a notable rise in tourism from both nations. According to official reports, this initiative is proving successful in driving cross-border tourism, with large groups and individual travelers taking advantage of the opportunity to explore new regions. Tour operators in Xinjiang have reported a sharp increase in travel consultations, particularly for Kazakhstan-themed packages that range from 1 to 30 days, demonstrating the growing interest in the region.

Xinjiang’s proximity to Kazakhstan, coupled with the ease of access now provided by the visa exemption, has made it an attractive destination for tourists looking to explore the cultural richness of both regions. The port has become a gateway for visitors from Kazakhstan to explore Xinjiang’s vast natural landscapes and historical sites, while also offering easy access for Chinese tourists to discover the cultural treasures of Kazakhstan.

Rising Popularity of Cross-Border Tours

The rise in tourism has not been confined to just one sector. Self-driving tours, in particular, have experienced a boom, with many tourists opting for flexible, independent travel between the two countries. Tour operators in Xinjiang have responded to this demand by expanding their offerings to cater to a wider range of travelers. This trend reflects the growing demand for customized experiences that blend local culture and international exploration.

Travel agencies have noticed a sharp rise in self-driving tours between Jeminay Port and Kazakhstan, particularly in May and June. The growth in self-guided tours demonstrates the changing preferences of travelers who now seek more freedom and flexibility in planning their itineraries. As a result, local tour companies are now offering packages that cater specifically to the needs of these travelers, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey.

Efforts to Facilitate the Surge in Tourism

In response to the surge in cross-border tourism, Jeminay Port authorities have undertaken a series of measures to ensure smooth operations and a positive experience for travelers. The Jeminay Port Entry-Exit Border Inspection Station has introduced several optimizations to manage the increased flow of tourists effectively. These include forecasting travel waves, which helps to ensure that peak travel times are managed more efficiently, and providing clear procedural guides for travelers to follow.

Furthermore, the border inspection station has implemented seasonal staffing adjustments to cope with the influx of visitors during peak months. Special “green channels” have been established for vulnerable groups, allowing for expedited processing to minimize waiting times and improve the overall experience for travelers.

Cultural Tourism Development and Future Plans

Looking ahead, the cultural tourism authorities in Xinjiang are focusing on developing combined “domestic plus international” travel products. These products aim to highlight Xinjiang’s natural beauty while offering easy access to neighboring destinations like Kazakhstan. The integration of domestic and international travel experiences will help create a more cohesive and attractive tourism package, drawing visitors from both within China and beyond.

The growth of cross-border tourism between China and Kazakhstan is not only beneficial for the tourism sector but is also expected to have significant positive impacts on the local economy. The increased number of tourists brings business opportunities to local hotels, restaurants, and attractions, boosting the region’s economy and fostering greater cultural exchange between the two nations.

Optimizing Travel Infrastructure for Continued Growth

The rapid growth in tourism has placed pressure on local infrastructure, but efforts are underway to address these challenges. Authorities have invested in improving transportation facilities, including enhancing roadways and transit systems that connect Jeminay Port to key tourist destinations. These improvements will help ensure that the region can accommodate growing visitor numbers in the future while maintaining high standards of service.

Local authorities are also working to promote the region’s rich cultural heritage, including ancient temples, traditional markets, and scenic landscapes, as part of their broader strategy to position Xinjiang as a major destination for international tourists. This approach aligns with the national goal of boosting tourism and fostering cultural diplomacy, both of which are critical for the long-term success of the sector.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Cross-Border Tourism

Rapidly rising tourist flows at Jeminay Port are proof of the increasing popularity of cross-border travel between China and Kazakhstan. The launching of the 30-day mutual visa waiver scheme has contributed significantly to this trend, and ongoing efforts to improve tourism-related infrastructure in the region will continue to make the area more appealing as a destination. As travel culture keeps developing, the future of tourism between Xinjiang and Kazakhstan will have an encouraging prospect and broaden with ever deeper cultural exchanges.

References: China National Tourism Administration, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Tourism Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, Kazakhstan Ministry of Culture and Sports