At 5:30 a.m., Wang Hui stood amidst the bustling crowd at Shenzhen North Railway Station, her eyes reflecting both fatigue and anticipation. She was awaiting the first high-speed train from Shenzhen City in south China to Xi'an City in the northwest, set to depart at 6:08 a.m. Traveling with her family, Wang was one among millions embarking on the annual pilgrimage home for the Spring Festival.
A long-time resident of the sprawling metropolis of Shenzhen, Wang has built a life away from her hometown. Yet, as the Spring Festival approaches each year, the pull of her roots becomes irresistible.
\"I've been in Shenzhen since university, and now I have my own family,\" she shared, smiling despite the early hour. \"But every year, as the Spring Festival approaches, I can't help but feel the pull of home.\"
Nearby, another traveler, Ms. Zhong, prepared for her journey back to Chenzhou in central China's Hunan Province. Having lived in Shenzhen for over a decade, she echoed Wang's sentiments. The city's rapid growth and her busy life hadn't diminished her longing for home during this special time.
\"I've planned this trip for a month,\" Zhong said. \"The Spring Festival is when you want to be with family and embrace the traditions that connect us.\"
This year, China is witnessing a record-breaking surge in travel as people across the country journey home to celebrate the Spring Festival, also known as the Lunar New Year. The festival, steeped in tradition and family reunions, prompts the largest annual human migration in the world.
High-speed trains, flights, and buses are operating at full capacity to accommodate the massive influx of travelers. For many, it's the only time of the year when they can reconnect with family members, honor ancestral traditions, and partake in cultural festivities.
The Spring Festival is not just a holiday; it's a cornerstone of Chinese culture. Families gather to share elaborate meals, exchange red envelopes filled with lucky money, and watch the grand spectacle of the New Year's Gala. Streets are adorned with lanterns and decorations, creating a vibrant and joyous atmosphere.
For Wang Hui and Ms. Zhong, the journey home is more than just a physical trip; it's a return to their roots and a celebration of heritage.
\"As modern as our lives have become, the essence of family and tradition remains unchanged,\" Wang reflected. \"Going home for the Spring Festival reminds us of who we are and where we come from.\"
As dawn broke, the announcement for boarding echoed through the station. With tickets in hand and hearts full of anticipation, Wang, Zhong, and countless others embarked on their journeys, weaving together personal stories that form the rich tapestry of China's most cherished festival.
Reference(s):
China's Spring Festival: Record-breaking travel, cultural feast
cgtn.com
