Iran’s profile rises in China, boosting tourism potential
Chinese public interest in Iran has climbed sharply in the wake of recent regional developments, with Iran trending across Chinese media and social platforms, drawing widespread curiosity about the country’s history, culture and tourism potential, Iranian tourism activist Hossein Khalifi said in remarks published by ISNA.
Khalifi, an Iran-based tourism promoter living in Shanghai, said recent events have reshaped how many ordinary Chinese perceive Iran, turning what was once a vague or mistaken understanding into what he described as “deep empathy” and growing cultural fascination.
“In past years, many ordinary Chinese did not clearly distinguish between Iran and Iraq,” Khalifi wrote in an article titled “Iran in China’s New View: From Vague Similarity to Deep Empathy”. “But recent developments have brought Iran’s name into Chinese media more than ever before.”
That heightened exposure has translated into strong online engagement. A short tourism video showcasing Iran’s attractions on Douyin drew more than 1mn views in less than 24 hours, Khalifi said, alongside over 8,000 comments, with more than 99% described as positive and supportive.
The surge in attention appears to be spilling beyond social media. Khalifi cited reports of grassroots donations in China for the Iranian people, including one case in which a Chinese laborer in Shanghai reportedly donated 20,000 yuan, nearly $3,000 and roughly equivalent to three months of wages, to the Iranian consulate.
Such gestures show what Khalifi called an emerging “emotional bond” between the two nations, one that could pave the way for stronger people-to-people ties and broader cultural exchanges.
He said many Chinese citizens are now seeking more information about Iran’s geography, history and traditions, with some expressing interest in traveling to the country, potentially opening new opportunities for Iran’s tourism sector.
Khalifi also pointed to a rise in Chinese media and artistic productions centered on Iran, including animated content reflecting public engagement with regional developments.
The changing perception, he said, presents an opportunity to deepen cultural, social and even economic ties between Iran and China.