The Spring Festival travel rush, known as Chunyun, is the largest annual human migration, and this year, it has reached new heights. Officially starting on January 14, the 40-day travel period is expected to see a record 9 billion passenger trips, with car journeys accounting for 80% of the total. Railways and airlines are bracing for a surge, with railway trips projected to surpass 510 million, and air passenger volumes expected to exceed 90 million.
This massive migration is fueled by the need for people working, studying, or living far from their hometowns to reunite with family for China’s most important festival. As such, the transportation systems undergo their annual test, with safety at the forefront. According to Wang Xiuchun, an official with the Ministry of Transport, authorities are deploying robust safety measures to handle the challenges posed by weather and ensure smooth operations.
While family reunions remain the central motive for travel, leisure tourism has seen significant growth this year. Experts predict a 25% increase in travel for recreational purposes, with popular destinations ranging from tropical Hainan to wintery hotspots in Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Xinjiang. Cities like Harbin, host to the 9th Asian Winter Games, are capitalizing on the ice-and-snow economy, blending winter sports with festive celebrations. Local festivals, such as Guangzhou’s lantern extravaganza and Tianjin’s bustling cruise market, further reflect the evolving nature of the Spring Festival.
Technological advancements have also reshaped this year’s travel experience. Over 93% of railway tickets are now purchased online, with the 12306 platform selling over 235 million tickets by early January. Technology has streamlined the travel process, with digital ID cards replacing paper tickets, and added services like hotel bookings, car rentals, and food delivery. Innovations in transportation management, such as smart inspection robots, drone-assisted traffic monitoring, and highway ice warning systems, are also contributing to safer journeys.
A notable trend this year is the growing presence of New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) during Chunyun. NEVs are predicted to make up a larger share of road trips, with a significant rise in charging infrastructure across the country. By the end of 2024, 98% of highway service areas will be equipped with charging stations, supporting the nation’s growing fleet of electric vehicles.
Lastly, there has been a surge in inbound tourism during this year’s travel period. Preliminary statistics show a 47% year-on-year increase in ticket bookings for inbound flights. China’s recent visa policies, including mutual visa waivers and improved infrastructure, have helped boost tourism. In 2024, China welcomed 64.88 million foreign visitors, marking an 82.9% increase from the previous year.
This year’s Spring Festival travel rush is not only a celebration of tradition but also a demonstration of China’s commitment to embracing technological innovation and fostering global tourism.
