Bangkok, 29 August 2025 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), in cooperation with the Thai–Chinese Friendship Association, today launched the “Once in a Lifetime Bangkok–Beijing Friendship Caravan” to celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China. The 16-day journey, taking place from 10 to 25 October 2025, will span more than 5,000 kilometres, beginning at Sanam Luang in Bangkok and concluding at Tiananmen Square in Beijing.
The ceremonial announcement was presided over by Mr. Korn Dabbaransi, former Deputy Prime Minister and President of the Thai–Chinese Friendship Association, in the presence of Mr. Yang Xiao Long, Minister Counsellor (Cultural Section) of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Thailand; Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor.
Also in attendance were TAT executives including Ms. Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Asia and South Pacific; Mr. Chuwit Sirivejkul, Regional Director of East Asia; Ms. Tharinee Sombun, Deputy Regional Director of East Asia; and Mr. Boonrapee Damrongrat, Director of East Asia Market Division. Representing China were Mr. Ke Yubin, General Manager of BYD Auto Thailand; and Mr. Rocky Lau, Chairman of Siam Dragon (Asia Pacific).
The caravan will comprise 15 BYD Sealion 6DMH vehicles travelling through historic and cultural landmarks. Highlights include Xishuangbanna, Jinhong, Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, and Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province, home to the renowned Huangguoshu Waterfall. The journey will then continue through Hunan Province to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, known as the “Avatar Mountains”, before heading north to Xi’an to view the Terracotta Army, continuing to Pingyao, and culminating in Beijing for the official 50th anniversary commemoration.
The route will take participants from Bangkok via Phitsanulok, Phayao, and Chiang Khong, crossing into Lao PDR at Huai Sai and Bo Ten, and onward into China through Mohan Crossing, Xishuangbanna, Pu’er, Kunming, Guiyang, Fenghuang, Wulingyuan–Zhangjiajie, Xiangyang, Xi’an, Pingyao, and Baoding. The final stage in Beijing will feature a grand ceremony marking the 50th anniversary of Thai–Chinese diplomatic relations, during which participants will receive commemorative certificates before returning by air to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said “This symbolic journey demonstrates the enduring friendship between Thailand and China and reflects the shared commitment to strengthen cultural and tourism exchanges. The caravan serves as a celebration of 50 years of diplomatic ties while building a bridge for two-way tourism, inviting Thai travellers to experience the beauty of China, and encouraging Chinese visitors to rediscover the warmth and diversity of Thailand.”
The Bangkok–Beijing caravan is expected to generate wide exposure, with coverage by CCTV, China Daily, PPTV, and major online platforms across China, reaching an estimated audience of more than one billion. In partnership with BYD and Workpoint TV, the initiative underscores Thailand’s role as a welcoming destination for Chinese travellers, reinforcing cultural ties and enhancing confidence in bilateral tourism growth.
