Chinese Tourist Visits to Russia’s House of Friendship Double in May

The House of Russian-Chinese Friendship in Blagoveshchensk saw a surge in Chinese visitors last month, with numbers doubling compared to earlier in the year, regional officials reported Tuesday. The attraction, which opened in October 2025 inside the Tribuna Hall complex, has quickly become a draw for cross-border travelers.

Governor Vasily Orlov called the center a living symbol of cooperation between the two countries. “The exhibits, interactive zones, and thematic displays let guests feel the depth of our cultural dialogue,” he said. “We saw a clear jump in attendance in May, especially from Chinese tourists.”

Exhibition director Nadezhda Parkhunova confirmed that Chinese visitors specifically doubled in number last month. The venue is already expanding, with new display areas under construction. By July, for the Day of Love, Family and Fidelity, a photo exhibition will showcase Russian and Chinese wedding ceremonies, along with explanations of each country’s marriage traditions.

Planners are also working on a quirky project: life-sized models of open refrigerators—one typical of Amur region homes, the other of Chinese homes—so visitors can compare what families on either side of the border stock in their kitchens.

This Friday, June 6, the same complex will open the Amur Dinosaur Park, featuring guided tours, paleontology lectures, and a special “Dino Night” event. Meanwhile, the first phase of the Amur Seasons trade fair is 70% complete, with roofing finishing by June 15 and facade work wrapping up five days later.