China tourism continues to surge - exclusive interview with Li Huixin, head of China’s tourist office in Budapest
2026-05-11 09:38 环球时报网英文版
As a key example of China"s cultural outreach, the China National Tourist Office in Budapest has in recent years actively promoted the localization of Chinese intangible cultural heritage (ICH) projects in Hungary. Among them, the national-level ICH craft of Zigong lantern-making from Sichuan has been successfully introduced, giving rise to the "China Lantern Festival" at the Budapest Zoo, which has become a highlight of China-Hungary cultural exchange. Operated on a market-oriented basis, the event has evolved into an annual branded program, with two successful editions already held and a third expected to launch in the autumn this year, demonstrating strong sustainability.
In addition, the Tourist Office successfully launched the "China Intangible Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Creative Products Exhibition" for three consecutive summers. Developed from the ground up, the exhibition is entirely curated by China and features a comprehensive showcase of Chinese cultural products, design concepts, and traditional craftsmanship. It aims to systematically introduce Chinese brands, design, craftsmanship, and aesthetics to the European market, serving as another important platform for enhancing the international communication of China"s cultural soft power. 2026 will mark the fourth edition, and we warmly welcome our Hungarian friends to visit and experience it.
These initiatives represent not only cultural exchange but also sustainable, market-driven international cooperation platforms.
Li Huixin, Director of China National Tourist Office in Budapest. Photo: Daily News Hungary
V. A Year-Round Destination: Seasonal Highlights Across China
Li Huixin provided seasonal travel recommendations:




