Domestic travel in the Chinese mainland is projected to hit a record high during the 2025 Spring Festival travel rush, with around nine billion inter-regional movements, marking a seven percent increase year on year. Among these, “ice tourism” and “warm tourism” have emerged as popular cultural and tourism attractions.
Ice Tourism: Northern Cities Welcome Tourism Boom
Harbin, Changchun, Urumqi, and other northern cities have become popular choices for ice and snow tourism. With the increasing popularity of ice and snow sports in the Chinese mainland, many tourists are eager to admire ice sculptures, experience skiing, and participate in other ice and snow activities. According to data from a Chinese travel platform, the number of travel bookings for the ice and snow city of Harbin in northeast China’s Heilongjiang province has increased by 32 percent year on year.
The famous Harbin Ice and Snow World, with its enchanting ice sculptures and vibrant festivals, has been a significant draw for both domestic and international tourists. “Visiting Harbin during the Spring Festival has always been a dream of mine,” said Li Ming, a tourist from Shanghai. “The ice sculptures are breathtaking, and the atmosphere is truly magical.”
Similarly, Changchun and Urumqi are experiencing a surge in visitors seeking unique winter experiences. Ski resorts are bustling with activity, and local businesses are thriving due to the increased tourism.
Warm Tourism: Southern Destinations Attract Travelers
While the northern regions bask in the glory of ice and snow, southern destinations like Sanya, Xiamen, and Guangzhou are drawing visitors seeking warmer climates. Tourists looking to escape the winter chill are heading south to enjoy sunny beaches, tropical landscapes, and cultural festivities unique to these regions.
“Spending the Spring Festival in Sanya has been a wonderful escape from the cold,” shared Zhao Wei, a traveler from Beijing. “The warm weather, delicious seafood, and vibrant New Year celebrations make it an ideal destination.”
The diversity of travel preferences during the Spring Festival highlights the rich cultural and geographical offerings of the Chinese mainland, catering to a wide range of interests.
Industry experts attribute the surge in domestic travel to the growing middle class and improved transportation infrastructure, making inter-regional travel more accessible. The 2025 Spring Festival travel rush is set to break records, reflecting the dynamic and evolving landscape of China’s domestic tourism industry.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
