Chinese New Year Booming: Chiang Mai Hotels Nearly Fully Booked as Chinese Tourists Return

Chiang Mai is experiencing an incredibly lively Chinese New Year, with hotel operators celebrating as room bookings exceed 95%. Chinese tourists have returned, increasing by over 50% after a long absence. This surge comes as a result of China canceling direct flights to Japan, redirecting tourists to Thailand. Paisal Sukchalern, President of the Upper Northern Thai Hotel Association, noted that overall tourist numbers have increased by 20-30%, with nearly 60% of visitors now traveling independently. Most tourists are arriving in family groups, couples, and with friends, though group tours have not yet resumed. This marks a positive development for the tourism service sector, bringing renewed energy to Chiang Mai's tourism industry.