China Sets New Record with 1.52 Billion Trips During May Day Golden Week
China has set a new travel record during its May Day Golden Week holiday. The Ministry of Transport reported an astounding 1.52 billion cross-regional trips during the five-day period that ended on May 6, 2026. This marks a 3.49% increase compared to the same period in 2025.
The unprecedented travel surge saw road travel taking the lead with 1.39 billion trips. Meanwhile, rail passenger trips rose by 4.6% to 106.38 million. Railway stations handled a record-breaking 24.8 million passenger trips in a single day, setting a new milestone for China’s transport network.
In celebration of the holiday, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism launched its 2026 May Day Culture and Tourism Consumption Week. This event featured over 13,700 cultural and tourism activities across the country. Travel patterns are evolving, with searches for outdoor and lifestyle tourism—including activities such as hiking, trekking, and cultural exploration—rising by over 130% compared to last year.
Cross-border travel also experienced significant growth. Daily inbound and outbound passenger flows averaged 2.25 million during the holiday period. This boom reflects China’s expanding visa-free access policies and its growing appeal as an international destination.
Source: Xinhua News