China’s 2026 New Year holiday travel patterns reveal a strong preference for short-distance trips, with expressways and railways experiencing unprecedented demand. The three-day holiday period, ending January 3, saw millions prioritize family visits and regional tourism over long-haul journeys.
Road Networks Under Pressure
The Ministry of Transport reported expressways handled 37 million vehicles daily during the peak period – a 9% increase from 2025 levels. Passenger car traffic reached 30.8 million vehicles per day, marking a 22% surge compared to regular weekdays.
Rail Systems Meet Demand
China’s railways operated 1,113 extra services on January 1 alone, transporting 18.25 million passengers during the single busiest travel day. Total rail trips during the December 31-January 4 period are projected to reach 77.8 million.
Aviation Sector Rebounds
Domestic flight bookings grew 28% year-on-year, while international travel saw a 14% increase according to CMG data. This dual growth highlights recovering consumer confidence in both local and cross-border travel.
Expert Analysis
Senior Transport Ministry engineer Deng Wen attributes the trend to practical considerations: "The holiday’s compact schedule and winter weather make provincial self-drive trips the logical choice for family reunions and leisure activities."
