(Yicai Global) Oct. 8 -- China's mainland has once again ranked as Asia-Pacific's biggest tourism source market, according to Mastercard.

China surpassed Japan in 2012 and has held onto its position since then, local news outlet Economic Information Daily reported today, citing a report done by the US financial services provider.

Chinese mainland tourists outnumber others in 13 out of 20 Asia-Pacific markets, including Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, and Seoul. The list of over 160 popular destinations includes 41 Chinese cities, showing that domestic travel is also on the rise. 

An increasing number of Chinese consumers are going abroad and convenient payment services drive the development of cross-border tourism, said Chang Qing, president of Mastercard China.

Editor: Emmi Laine