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2024 Xiaohongshu Marketing Insights for the Vocational Education Industry

2024 Trends in Shopping Tourism Development in China

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Market Background and Policy Support for Shopping Tourism

1. The Synergy of Online and Offline Shopping

  • Evolving Consumer Behavior: Chinese consumers increasingly value the convenience of online shopping while seeking the immersive experience of offline stores.
  • Leading E-commerce Platforms: Platforms like Taobao, JD.com, Pinduoduo, Douyin, and Kuaishou leverage big data and algorithms to deliver personalized recommendations, streamlining the shopping journey.
  • Interactive Shopping Experiences: Live-stream shopping and mobile browsing have revolutionized consumer engagement, enhancing convenience and decision-making.
  • Rise of Experiential Shopping: The shift from material consumption to experiential consumption is driving demand for unique and engaging shopping experiences.
  • Digital Transformation: Innovations in technology are enriching offline shopping, offering dynamic and interactive environments.

2. Tourism Shopping as a Key Focus of Cultural Tourism Policies

  • Policy Optimization: Enhanced policies are fostering diverse shopping scenarios and consumption environments.
  • Central and Local Initiatives: Creative product development and tourism merchandise design are at the forefront, with local governments implementing measures to promote shopping tourism.
  • Integration of Culture and Tourism: Policies emphasize combining shopping with cultural experiences, making shopping tourism a vital growth driver for cultural tourism.

Insights into Tourist Shopping Behavior

1. Spending Patterns

  • Budget Distribution: Over half of tourists spend between ¥2,000-¥5,000, with 30% allocating ¥5,000-¥10,000. Shopping accounts for over 20% of expenses for most, with 10% dedicating more than 30%.
  • Higher Spending Among Outbound Tourists: International tourists exhibit significantly higher shopping expenditures compared to domestic tourists.

2. Shopping Habits

  • Proactive Shoppers: 95% of tourists shop during trips, with over 70% planning in advance.
  • Education and Intent: Higher education levels correlate with stronger shopping intentions, particularly among postgraduate travelers.
  • Meticulous Planning by Outbound Tourists: Nearly 80% of international travelers prepare detailed shopping plans.

3. Shopping Destinations

  • Main Venues: Popular locations include commercial streets, unique markets, and large malls.
  • Specialty Spots: Cultural parks, scenic areas, and duty-free stores offer diverse shopping experiences.
  • Shopping Villages: Featuring discounted luxury goods and curated experiences, these are prime attractions.

4. Product Preferences

  • Local Specialties: Tourists favor handcrafted items, regional delicacies, and cultural products.
  • Fashion and Luxury: Clothing, jewelry, and cosmetics are highly sought after by nearly 70% of shoppers.

5. Influencing Factors

  • Product Attributes: Cultural value, quality, price, and portability play key roles.
  • Social Media Impact: Recommendations on platforms like Xiaohongshu and Douyin influence 40% of decisions.
  • Service Excellence: Positive attitudes, easy payment options, and after-sales support enhance satisfaction.

The Future of Shopping Tourism: Cultural Integration and Digital Transformation

1. Emphasizing Cultural Experiences

  • Destinations will blend interactive and experiential elements, incorporating themes like cultural creativity, technology, and sustainability to craft distinctive identities.

2. Enhancing Service Quality

  • Focus on accommodating high-spending international tourists through multilingual signage, tax refunds, and global payment options, supported by data-driven service optimization.

3. Strengthening Supply Chain Collaboration

  • Partnerships with airlines, hotels, and attractions will introduce bundled discounts and innovative shopping-tourism routes, fostering deeper cultural and commercial integration.

4. Driving Digital Transformation

  • Smart shopping tools, O2O strategies, and contactless payments will elevate convenience and engagement.
  • Leveraging social media for branding and consumer insights will refine marketing strategies, ensuring precision in meeting consumer needs.

Boost your brand’s presence in China’s booming shopping tourism market with OctoPlus Media. Contact us today to explore strategic solutions tailored for success.

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