The tapestry of China-Russia relations is rich and varied. While political and strategic narratives often dominate discussions, it’s the everyday exchanges between the two nations’ citizens that bring their intertwined stories to life. The bustling border city of Heihe in Northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province and the historic wonders of western Russian cities stand testament to this thriving connection.
Heihe has recently seen a surge in Russian visitors, drawn by the allure of Chinese morning delicacies and vibrant local fairs where they can shop for groceries, attire, and keepsakes. This increased influx, a result of the mutual visa exemption scheme which resumed after a brief COVID-19 suspension, has been a boon for local businesses. Entrepreneurs, like Liu Hui, who operates a travel agency in Heihe, has noted a significant uptick in inquiries about trips to Russia. This streamlined travel process has made it easier for many to explore the neighboring nation, often requiring nothing more than a short boat ride.
However, Chinese tourists’ interest isn’t confined to border cities like Blagoveshchensk. The sprawling urban landscapes of Moscow and Saint Petersburg have also caught their fancy. Interest in trips for “aurora chasing” in Murmansk has seen a notable increase on popular lifestyle platforms in China.
For Wang Jia, a tourist from East China’s Shandong Province, Moscow’s Red Square was a sight to behold. From its warm inhabitants to the breathtaking scenery, she was enamored by the experience. Her journey was made even smoother by the presence of Chinese language signs at key locations, including the airport. Moscow’s intricate subway system was also accessible through Chinese bank-issued UnionPay cards. The camaraderie of the locals further enhanced the experience. Wang recounted a heartwarming episode where a local, despite a language barrier, assisted her group in finding a restaurant and expressed friendship in Chinese.
A lover of art, Wang also admired the galleries and museums of Moscow and the iconic Winter Palace in Saint Petersburg. Meanwhile, her friend Liu found himself captivated by the palace’s historical significance, notably its storming in 1917, an event that resonated deeply with the annals of Chinese modern history. Other tourists expressed admiration for the towering Soviet-era buildings, reminiscent of their childhood surroundings in state-owned complexes. The blend of European charm and a shared socialist history made Russia particularly enchanting for Chinese travelers.
Ease of travel further facilitated these cultural exchanges. While the visa exemption was not utilized by all, the efficiency of the e-visa system was evident, often processing applications within days. Concerns regarding monetary transactions, owing to SWIFT sanctions, were quickly allayed as many found they could connect local apps to their Chinese bank accounts and use UnionPay at numerous locations.
The linguistic skills of the local merchants further showcased the depth of the connection. In Moscow’s historic Arbat Street, many vendors spoke fluent Chinese, making interactions smoother for visiting Chinese tourists.
Students, such as one from Moscow State University, noticed the significant presence of Chinese tourists during the early October Chinese National Day holidays. This student also offered tailored services to visiting Chinese nationals, assisting with language translations, bookings, and more. The burgeoning demand for such offerings spoke volumes about the evolving relationship between the two nations.
In the end, these exchanges, characterized by personal interactions and cultural appreciation, serve to strengthen the bond between China and Russia. As Zhang, the student, poignantly mentioned, while formal relations at the governmental level play their part, it’s the shared moments, friendships, and memories that truly solidify the relationship between the two countries.
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