Imagine millions of people traveling at the same time! That’s what’s happening in China right now during the Spring Festival, also known as Chinese New Year. It’s the most important holiday in China, and families can’t wait to be together.
A Race to Home 🏃♂️🚄
Wang Hui, a mom living in the big city of Shenzhen, wakes up super early at 5:30 a.m. She’s excited to catch the train to her hometown, Xi’an, to celebrate with her family. Even though she lives and works in Shenzhen, her heart is always drawn home during the Spring Festival.
Another traveler, Ms. Zhong, is heading back to Chenzhou. She says, “The Spring Festival is when you want to be with family and enjoy traditions that bring us together.”
Record-Breaking Travel Numbers! 📊
This year, from January 14 to February 22, China expects an incredible nine billion trips! That’s like everyone in the world traveling more than once! By January 19, people had already made over 1 billion trips.
Most people are traveling from big cities like Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Beijing, and Hangzhou. They’re going to popular places like Harbin, Chongqing, and Chengdu.
Fun Traditions and Celebrations 🎉🧧
The Spring Festival isn’t just about going home. There are so many cool traditions! Families:
- Shop for special festival goodies.
- Decorate with red banners called Spring Festival couplets.
- Give red envelopes (hongbao) with money inside for good luck.
- Light fireworks and hang bright lanterns.
- Stay up late on New Year’s Eve (called shousui).
Many families also watch the Spring Festival Gala on TV. It’s a big show with singing, dancing, comedy, and amazing performances!
Exploring Cultural Heritage 🏮🎭
This year, lots of people are excited about traditional Chinese culture. They’re visiting places to learn paper-cutting, see lantern festivals, and enjoy ancient arts like shadow puppetry.
In places like Chongqing and Zhejiang Province, more people are buying handmade gifts and joining in cultural activities. Online searches for these experiences have jumped a lot compared to last year!
An Exciting Time for Everyone! 🎊
With so many people traveling and celebrating, the Spring Festival brings joy and happiness. It’s a time for families to be together, enjoy traditions, and have fun!
Reference(s):
China's Spring Festival: Record-breaking travel, cultural feast
cgtn.com
