Under the policy, groups of at least two travellers joining package tours organised by licensed travel agencies will be eligible for visa-free entry.
Known for its dramatic karst landscape and often described as one of China’s most picturesque destinations, Guilin has quickly attracted interest among Vietnamese travellers following the announcement.
Vietravel has launched Guilin tours highlighting the region’s famed scenery. A five-day trip covering Guilin, Elephant Trunk Hill, the Ten-Mile Gallery and Yangshuo, including bamboo rafting on the Yulong River, will depart between April and June from VND 12.99 million (USD 494) per person.
A six-day tour that adds destinations such as Guihai Qinglan is priced from VND 13.99 million.
Guilin tours previously cost from about VND 15.9 million, as travellers had to obtain visas and often fly via transit routes, raising airfare costs. Visa-free group travel and new direct flights have since lowered prices and made packages more competitive.
Other travel firms are offering similar tours starting from VND 12.99 million. Intertour Vietnam, for example, is promoting a six-day Guangzhou-Guilin-Yangshuo itinerary that includes visa exemption and no financial proof requirements.
Previously, Vietnamese travellers often chose cheaper land-based tours from Nanning to Guilin and Yangshuo, priced at around VND 6.5 million.
Travel companies say China has recently become an increasingly popular destination for Vietnamese tourists. With its striking landscapes and cultural experiences, Guilin is expected to attract strong interest, particularly among families and nature lovers.
However, the visa-free policy applies only to organised tour groups, meaning travellers should book through reputable agencies to ensure proper entry procedures and service arrangements.
Visitors must also comply with the 144-hour stay limit and travel restrictions within the Guilin area, and prepare the required personal documents according to guidance from tour operators, Khanh added.