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The introduction of a visa exemption for Chinese citizens, effective Jan. 2, 2026, is expected to significantly increase tourism in Cappadocia, one of Türkiye’s most iconic destinations.
The exemption allows Chinese passport holders to stay in Türkiye for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa, making the country more accessible to one of the world’s largest outbound travel markets.
2026 marks the “Year of the Horse” in the Chinese zodiac, a perfect match for Cappadocia, famously known as the “land of beautiful horses.” To welcome the expected surge of visitors, the Cappadocia Regional Authority is gearing up with exciting horse shows, themed festivals, cultural events, and exclusive tour programs, set to launch in February.
Talip Aldemir, board member of the Turkish Travel Agencies Association (TURSAB), highlighted the significance of the development:
“The combination of the visa exemption and the Year of the Horse will position Cappadocia as a prime destination for Chinese tourists. We are targeting approximately 500,000 Chinese visitors this year, with an expected increase of over 20 percent.”
Ozay Onur, head of the Nevsehir Tour Guides Association, emphasized Cappadocia’s unique appeal. “The region’s underground cities, distinctive geological formations, and hot air balloon experiences offer Chinese visitors unparalleled travel experiences.
"Preparations for special events, including a 'Chinese Year of the Horse Village,' are underway to enhance the visitor experience and attract larger numbers,” Onur stated.
Industry representatives have noted that the visa exemption has already sparked a surge in flight searches from China, and projections indicate that Türkiye could welcome up to 1 million Chinese tourists in 2026. Tourism stakeholders anticipate that this influx will provide a significant boost to both the regional and national economy.
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