At 5:30 a.m., the bustling Shenzhen North Railway Station is already alive with the energy of eager travelers. Wang Hui, accompanied by her family, waits patiently to board the first high-speed train departing at 6:08 a.m. from Shenzhen in south China to Xi'an in the northwest.
A mother and long-time resident of the vibrant metropolis of Shenzhen, Wang Hui reflects on the magnetic pull of her hometown during this time of year. \"I've been in Shenzhen since university, and now I have my own family,\" she shares, her eyes bright despite the early hour. \"But every year, as the Spring Festival approaches, I can't help but feel the pull of home.\"
Wang is among millions of people participating in the annual migration known as the Spring Festival travel rush. This year, record-breaking numbers are making the journey back to their roots, underscoring the deep-rooted significance of family and tradition in Chinese culture.
Another traveler, Ms. Zhong, is also making the journey home, heading to Chenzhou in central China's Hunan Province. Having lived in Shenzhen for over a decade, she notes that the city's rapid growth and modern allure have never diminished her longing for home during the festival. \"I've planned this trip for a month,\" Zhong says with a smile. \"The Spring Festival is when you want to be with family and embrace the traditions that connect us.\"
For many like Wang and Zhong, the Spring Festival is more than a holiday; it's a reunion with loved ones and a reconnection with cultural heritage. Despite the long journeys and the crowds, the desire to be home outweighs all else.
The sights at stations across the country tell a similar story—of grandparents awaiting hugs, of children eager to share their year's experiences, and of communities coming alive with festivities that have been cherished for generations.
As trains depart and arrive, weaving through the vast landscapes of China, they carry with them stories of hope, love, and the unwavering bond of family. This year's record-breaking travel not only highlights the logistical marvel of China's transportation network but also the enduring importance of tradition in a rapidly changing world.
Reference(s):
China's Spring Festival: Record-breaking travel, cultural feast
cgtn.com
