Livestreaming and short videos by Chinese influencers have helped renew attention to Cambodia, particularly Siem Reap province, resulting in a sharp rise in Chinese tourist arrivals this year.
In the first ten months of the year, visitors from China surpassed the one million mark, up 44.6 percent compared to the same period last year, according to the latest data released by the Ministry of Tourism.
The Cambodia Tourism Board (CTB) recently welcomed a group of prominent Chinese influencers to Siem Reap as part of a strategic digital tourism initiative designed to strengthen Cambodia’s presence across major Chinese online platforms.
The campaign sought to attract more travellers from one of the Kingdom’s fastest-growing source markets by showcasing authentic experiences and cultural richness.
Influencers livestreamed and produced short-form videos for millions of followers, presenting Cambodia as a must-visit destination celebrated for its cultural heritage, warm hospitality, and diverse travel offerings.
Their journey began at sunrise in Angkor Wat and continued with tours across the Angkor Archaeological Park, covering the iconic Angkor Wat Temple, Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm, and Beng Mealea.
The group also engaged in community-based tourism activities, including a visit to Preah Dak Village and an excursion to Kampong Phluk floating village, where they enjoyed a sunset cruise.
According to a CTB statement, the influencers immersed themselves in Siem Reap’s culinary landscape, dining at leading local restaurants and refined establishments while also attending cultural performances and taking part in artisan activities that highlighted Cambodia’s creative heritage.
They were hosted with premium accommodations, spa experiences, and hospitality reflective of the Kingdom’s reputation. Their real-time content, shared across WeChat, Weibo, Douyin, and Xiaohongshu, provided Chinese audiences an authentic look into Siem Reap’s landmarks, cuisine, and community life, significantly boosting Cambodia’s visibility online.
In an interaction with Khmer Times, CTB Chief Executive Officer Kim Minea said Cambodia is widely recognised for its warm hospitality and cultural and natural heritage.
Minea was instrumental in inviting international media and content creators to visit and do stories that capture the nation’s resilient, safe, and welcoming spirit.
Chinese influencer Tang Bo Hu addressed a common concern during a livestream on Douyin, saying, “You might be worried that Cambodia is not safe, but when I came here, everything is fine, and I feel safe.”
Wei Xiaojing, another key opinion leader, reflected on the depth of local cultural knowledge, noting that the continuity of civilisation is carried not only in books but also through people like their tour guide. She encouraged travellers to experience this “deeply human connection” for themselves.
Cambodia’s growing appeal among Chinese tourists is supported by a multi-faceted strategy that includes strong bilateral ties, targeted tourism policies, infrastructure improvements, and promotion of its cultural and natural attractions.
The ongoing ‘Cambodia-China Tourism Year 2025’ aims to further enhance travel and investment flows through joint campaigns, events, and forums, with a goal of attracting more than one million Chinese tourists next year.
The government continues to collaborate with major Chinese platforms such as Tuniu and utilises social media channels like WeChat and Weibo to present Cambodia as a safe, appealing destination, supported by streamlined visa processes and improved information access in Chinese.
