Gyowon Tour sees 85% surge in China travel bookings, expands premium packages

Gyowon Tour's travel brand Yeohaengiji announced Friday it will expand its premium package offerings in response to growing demand for travel to China.

An analysis of fourth-quarter departure bookings showed China travel reservations rose 85.3% from the same period last year. China accounted for 23.5% of all bookings, the second highest share after Japan at 30.3%.

Gyowon Tour has diversified its lineup around Chinese history, culture and urban tourism. Its flagship "Xi'an and Huashan 4 Days" package uses Korean Air's direct Incheon–Xi'an route and is structured as a "three-none" product — no tips, no optional tours and no shopping stops.

The itinerary takes in the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, the Terracotta Warriors, the ancient city wall and the Muslim Quarter. Travelers also attend the Silk Road Show and visit Huashan — one of China's five sacred mountains — taking a cable car to enjoy the natural scenery.

A "Shanghai 4 Days" package targeting younger travelers and families flies Asiana Airlines' Gimpo–Shanghai route. Highlights include a Bund river cruise at night and visits to the water town of Zhujiajiao, Wukang Road and the Wukang Mansion.

The itinerary also covers Shanghai Movie Park, Xintiandi, Tianzifang and Nanjing Road, along with stops at the Shanghai Starbucks Reserve Roastery and the Shanghai Tower observation deck.

"As demand for travel to China grows, customers' tastes and preferences are diversifying — from historical and cultural experiences to urban sightseeing," a Gyowon Tour official said. "We will continue to expand premium products that reflect the characteristics of each destination and the needs of our key customer segments."