Ha'penny Bridge in Dublin.[Photo provided to China Daily]

"We have recently launched a brochure with information on unique Irish shopping brands that will be available in Chinese," Gibbons says.

Visitors can enjoy tax refunds on their purchases. For instance, Premier Tax Free in Ireland gives 17-percent back to visitors at the airport. Waterford crystal and handmade woolen sweaters and rugs are popular buys.

The Ireland Tourism Bureau is also working with Chinese media, such as China Central Television Channel 4 and Jiangsu TV, to introduce Chinese people to the island's cultural and natural beauty, as well as the local arts and life-style.

Dublin and the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare are among the most popular destinations for Chinese visitors, says Ctrip's Dai.

"Ireland has fantastic coastlines, and stunning scenery that has been used for many movies and TV series, including the blockbuster Game of Thrones," Gibbons says.

For those wanting a self-drive holiday experience, he recommends the Wild Atlantic Way, a coastal route that stretches for 1,500 miles (2,413 kilometers) along Ireland's dramatic western seaboard, from County Donegal's Ini-showen Peninsula to Kinsale in County Cork.

Kinsale is ideal for yachting, sea angling, dolphin and whale-watching trips, and it features gourmet restaurants and golf courses.