A file photo of the Ussuri River, which runs through Khabarovsk and Primorsky Krais, Russia, and the northeast part of China. [Photo: wikipedia]

Russia's Far East region of Primorsky Krai is becoming a new favorite destination for Chinese tourists.

Statistics show in the first 8 months of 2015, the region has received nearly 90-thousand Chinese tourists, up 75% compared with the same period last year.

The region has become the second most favorable destination for Chinese tourists after Moscow.

Vladimir Miklushevsky, Governor of the Primorsky Krai region says they are in talks to make self-driving tours available to Chinese tourists.

"We welcome all foreign tourists to visit Primorsky Krai, especially Chinese guests. We share 1100 kilometers borderline with neighboring China. We are now in talks with the Chinese side to draft self-driving tours and we see this as a new profit point for tourism."

It's been reported that Russia is to extend the free port regime to more cities in Russia's Far East region, while the city of Vladivostok and 15 other maritime administrative districts were given the status in July.

The governor adds that the eight day visa-free entry will certainly boost tourism in the future.

Vladimir Miklushevsky says his goal is to use all local resources to bring in more tourists.

"Apart from developing the infrastructures in scenic spots, we also have to build hotels and upgrade their services and facilities, for these factors are limiting our development now."

He also says they are developing cultural tours by setting up a theatre, galleries and museums so that foreign tourists can experience the authentic Russian ballet and other arts here.