Supportive measures fuel increase in Shanghai’s inbound foreign visitor arrivals
2026-07-06 15:41 China Daily
As China continues to welcome more international visitors, an increasing number of foreign travelers are exploring every corner of Shanghai, seeking experiences ranging from popular attractions to niche destinations.
In early February, Frans-Jan van Meer, a 50-year-old supply chain manager from the Netherlands, was busy picking out what he described as "more Chinese and exotic" Labubu blind boxes at the Bund Finance Center as gifts for his children back home.
An increasing number of foreign visitors flock to the landmark Yuyuan area to shop for gold jewelry and ornaments featuring traditional Chinese motifs such as dragons, phoenixes, zodiac animals and bamboo.
Others head to the South Bund Soft-Spinning Material Market for custom-made clothing in both Western and Chinese styles, attracted by the market"s fast turnaround times, competitive prices and high-quality craftsmanship.
Charles Wilders, an English teacher from the United Kingdom, told China Daily, "In the UK, it"s very expensive to get suits made, particularly on Savile Row. Whereas here, it"s more affordable for really, really great quality."
"It"s not only about the price. It"s actually the design and fit," added Jan Schutte, a German professor at the Shanghai Theatre Academy, who said the market is the "first place" he recommends to friends visiting Shanghai.
He Qi contributed to this story.
wangxin2@chinadaily.com.cn



