Record-Breaking 9.5 Billion Trips Expected During China’s 2026 Spring Festival Travel Rush
China is preparing for an unprecedented travel surge as the 2026 Spring Festival travel rush, also known as “chunyun,” is projected to generate 9.5 billion cross-regional trips during the 40-day period from January 26 to March 13, 2026. This massive movement signifies a 5.32% increase over the previous year’s travel numbers, marking one of the highest travel volumes in the nation’s history.
The surge encompasses all transportation networks, including air, rail, road, and water transport. The activity is expected to peak during the nine-day Lunar New Year holiday when the majority of workers and students receive time off to celebrate with their families. This cultural migration is a crucial driver of China’s domestic tourism and economic activity.
The continued growth reflects several factors, including the easing of pandemic restrictions in recent years, rising disposable income, and strong government support for domestic tourism. However, the 5.32% growth rate shows a slight slowdown compared to 2025’s 7.1% rebound. Experts attribute this to travel fatigue from pandemic years and evolving vacation preferences among younger generations.
Despite the moderation in growth rate, the projected 9.5 billion trips underscore the immense scale of China’s travel industry and the cultural importance of this seasonal migration. Travel companies, transportation networks, and hospitality providers are preparing for an exhilarating yet challenging period of heightened activity.
The Spring Festival travel rush remains a vital economic indicator for China, showcasing both the resilience of domestic tourism and the enduring cultural significance of family reunions during this important holiday period.
Source: Travel and Tour World