Chinese tourist groups surge in Finland this summer with 100 expected in Lappeenranta

Chinese tourists are arriving in Finland in greater numbers this summer than in recent years, with travel operators bringing groups to destinations across the Lake Finland region and the western coast, reports Finnish public broadcaster Yle.

This year, Chinese tour operator Shengxing Travel will bring around 100 groups—totaling roughly 2,000 tourists—to Lappeenranta alone, according to guide Andy Qiang. The city’s compact size and attractions, including its historic fortress, appeal to visitors, he said. A highlight for many has been the Finnish sauna experience, followed by traditional salmon soup.

The influx extends beyond Lappeenranta, with Chinese overnight stays in Finland exceeding 36,000 in February—more than at any point since the pandemic. Finavia, Finland’s airport operator, reported a 40% increase in passenger traffic on China routes in early 2024, with nearly 73,000 trips between Finland and China from January to April.

New direct flights, such as China Southern Airlines’ March launch of a Beijing Daxing–Helsinki route, have made travel more accessible. Many Chinese tourists also arrive via Russian airspace on affordable flights, boosting interest in European trips.

Tourism shift fills gap left by Russian visitors

The rise in Chinese tourism is helping offset the loss of Russian visitors, particularly in the Saimaa region. In 2019, Russian tourists accounted for over 230,000 overnight stays in South Karelia; last year, that number dropped to around 45,000. Local businesses now rely on new markets, with Chinese and other Asian groups booking rooms months in advance, said Annmari Seppä, manager of Sokos Hotel Lappee.

Finnish retailer S-Group has also partnered with Chinese operators to offer package tours, including stays at its hotels. Olli Järvinen of Etelä-Karjalan Osuuskauppa noted ongoing negotiations with multiple international tour companies, with more Asian groups expected in autumn.

GoSaimaa, the regional tourism marketing agency, is targeting Central European markets like Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands, alongside Switzerland. “This year, southern Saimaa is being actively promoted in these countries,” said director Katja Vehviläinen. The goal is to diversify visitor sources as domestic tourism alone cannot sustain local businesses.