In recent months, a remarkable trend has emerged, with more and more Russian tourists heading to China, especially for medical treatments rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This increase in Russian visitors is attributed to China’s new visa-free policy, which took effect on 15 September 2025, allowing Russian citizens to travel to China without the need for a visa until 14 September 2026. As a result, Russia is witnessing a dramatic influx of visitors seeking a variety of healthcare services in cities like Hunchun and regions like Inner Mongolia, renowned for their TCM practices.
A Visa-Free Gateway to Health and Wellness
Since the introduction of the experimental visa-free regime, Russia has seen a sharp increase in the number of citizens travelling to China. Over just two months following the policy’s implementation, approximately 40,000 Russians entered China by car through Inner Mongolia. This marked a 60% increase compared to the same period last year, reflecting a growing interest in China’s healthcare offerings.
The policy has been a game-changer for many Russians, as it allows them easy access to a range of TCM treatments, such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and other alternative therapies, which are highly sought after in Russia due to their perceived efficacy in treating chronic ailments.
Hunchun: The Border City Leading the Way in Medical Tourism
One of the cities benefiting the most from this new influx of Russian visitors is Hunchun, located near the Russian-Chinese border. A local clinic in Hunchun reported a significant rise in Russian patients seeking treatment for conditions like cervical spondylosis and adhesive capsulitis. The clinic has responded to this surge by opening an international department and employing professional interpreters to ensure smooth communication for the growing number of foreign patients.
These treatments, part of the broader Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) tradition, have become especially popular among Russians suffering from musculoskeletal issues, a demand that has led local healthcare providers to adapt their services. Hunchun’s proximity to Russia makes it a particularly attractive destination for those seeking these alternative medical therapies, as it allows for easy travel across the border.
Inner Mongolia: A New Frontier for Medical Tourism
In Inner Mongolia, the rise in Russian medical tourists has prompted local healthcare institutions to diversify their offerings. TCM-based services such as physiotherapy, acupuncture, traditional Chinese massages, and thermal hydrotherapy have all been added to meet the demand from these visitors. These treatments, designed to relieve pain, improve circulation, and promote overall wellness, are gaining popularity among Russians who prefer holistic methods of healing.
The region’s willingness to cater to Russian tourists, coupled with its rich history of TCM, has made Inner Mongolia a key destination for medical tourists. In fact, as more Russians opt for these services, there has been a noticeable boost in local businesses catering specifically to foreign visitors.
Russian Tourists Flock to China for Affordable Health Solutions
One major factor driving this surge in Russian medical tourists is the relatively lower cost of treatments in China compared to similar services in Russia or other European countries. Many Russians seeking alternative medicine options have found TCM to be not only effective but also more affordable. The expense of travelling to China for treatment is often outweighed by the savings on medical bills, making it an increasingly viable option for those in need of healthcare services.
The financial accessibility of treatments, coupled with the ease of travel, is helping to position China as a top destination for medical tourism in the region. The growing number of Russian tourists seeking affordable yet effective healthcare options is expected to continue, particularly as China’s visa-free access remains in place for the coming year.
Statistics Reflect the Growing Trend
Government statistics on the influx of Russian tourists provide a clearer picture of the growing trend. In the first two months after the visa-free policy was implemented, the number of Russian citizens entering China via Inner Mongolia reached an impressive 40,000. Of these, an overwhelming 85.2% were tourists, underlining the strong appeal of China’s tourism sector. This statistic highlights not only the growing interest in medical tourism but also the increasing willingness of Russian citizens to travel across borders for healthcare solutions not readily available in their home country.
The Future of Medical Tourism Between Russia and China
As the demand for Traditional Chinese Medicine continues to grow among Russian tourists, it is clear that China is becoming a key destination for medical tourism in the region. With the combination of easy access via the visa-free policy, affordable treatments, and the rich history of TCM, the future looks bright for both Russian visitors and Chinese healthcare providers.
With millions of Russians already benefiting from these medical services, the coming months are expected to see even greater numbers of tourists flocking to China. As the policy remains in effect until September 2026, both countries stand to gain from a booming healthcare tourism sector that is poised for continued growth.
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