At the break of dawn, Shenzhen North Railway Station hums with unprecedented energy as travelers embark on their journeys home for China's Spring Festival. Among them is Wang Hui, a mother and resident of the bustling metropolis of Shenzhen. She stands with her family, waiting to board the first high-speed train to Xi'an City, departing at 6:08 a.m.
Despite having built a life in the Chinese mainland's southern city, Wang Hui feels a profound connection to her hometown, especially during this festive season. \"I've been in Shenzhen since university, and now I have my own family, but every year, as the Spring Festival approaches, I can't help but feel the pull of home,\" she shares, her smile reflecting both excitement and nostalgia.
Wang's sentiments echo those of countless others who traverse great distances to reunite with loved ones. Another traveler, Ms. Zhong, is heading back to Chenzhou in central China's Hunan Province. Having lived in Shenzhen for over a decade, she acknowledges that the city's rapid growth hasn't diminished her longing for home during the Spring Festival. \"I've planned this trip for a month. The Spring Festival is when you want to be with family and embrace the traditions that connect us,\" Zhong says.
This annual migration, often referred to as the world's largest human movement, sees millions journeying across the country. The Spring Festival, steeped in cultural significance, is a time for family reunions, honoring ancestors, and celebrating new beginnings. The surge in travel not only highlights the importance of familial bonds but also underscores the enduring relevance of tradition in a rapidly modernizing society.
Shenzhen, a city synonymous with innovation and economic prosperity, transforms during this period. The usually bustling streets become quieter as residents like Wang and Zhong depart, reflecting a collective return to roots. The high-speed rail network plays a crucial role, connecting distant provinces and making these heartfelt reunions possible.
As the train to Xi'an prepares to depart, Wang Hui reflects on the journey ahead. \"It's not just about the destination; it's about preserving our heritage and passing these traditions on to our children,\" she says, her gaze set on the horizon.
The Spring Festival travel rush is more than a logistical phenomenon; it's a tapestry of personal stories and shared cultural identity. For many, the journey home is a reaffirmation of who they are and where they come from, a sentiment that continues to resonate deeply across the Chinese mainland.
Reference(s):
China's Spring Festival: Record-breaking travel, cultural feast
cgtn.com
