SHENYANG, Jan. 1 -- Shenyang and Dalian, capital and port city of northeast China's Liaoning Province, respectively, launched 72-hour visa-free stays for foreigners starting on Jan. 1, authorities said Wednesday.

To enjoy the policy, travelers should hold a valid passport, third country visas and plane tickets leaving for a third country or region within 72 hours, according to the public security bureaus of both cities.

The 51 countries include the United States, Australia, Republic of Korea, Japan, Singapore, France, Germany, Russia and the United Kingdom, which are among the most common origin countries for inbound tourist arrivals to China.

Foreigners who enjoy the visa-free policy can stay within the two cities after arriving at the Shenyang Taoxian International Airport or Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport.

However, foreigners should also apply for a Chinese visa if they are faced with unexpected circumstances or special events causing them to stay in the two cities for over 72 hours.

Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu and Chongqing also have 72-hour visa-free services in place.