China has formally sent its first tour group to Israel.

The first tour group of 75 tourists departed from Beijing in two batches on September 25 and September 28.

Following approval by the State Council of China, Israel has become one of outbound tour destinations for Chinese citizens. From September 15, 2008, Chinese citizens can book tours to Israel through travel agencies approved by the China National Tourism Administration to operate outbound tour business. Visitors to Israel from China require a passport valid for more than six months.

(China Hospitality News October 8, 2008)