While it is difficult to clear the air quickly, the government, companies and individuals should do what they can to reduce pollution and bring back the blue sky.

As China seeks quality over quantity in economic growth, concrete action is needed, and more green energy and clean technology must be used.

Further, new and niche travel products should be offered to overseas visitors to highlight China's attractions.

Competition for the tourist dollar is fierce in Asia. Many countries have invested heavily in promoting and upgrading their travel "brands", with campaigns such as "Incredible India".

Thailand, Cambodia and South Korea are popular destinations for many Western visitors.

Chinese destinations and tourism organizations need to focus more on designing new, unique, signature experiences for foreigners—for example, niche products such as cuisine tourism, which focuses on traveling to famous food cities and teaching foreigners to cook Chinese food.

Additionally, combining resources can make travel more attractive.

For short visits, 72-hour visas are now available for 11 Chinese cities, ranging from Shenyang to Kunming. Travel organizations can use this policy and cooperate with neighboring countries to plan regional tourism packages.

With many countries receiving Chinese visitors having simplified their visa requirements, China's authorities can make visas easier to get over the coming years.

What is more, foreign travel media, travel websites and even social media can be used to promote China's tourism.