As dawn broke over Shenzhen North Railway Station, the usually bustling hub was already alive with anticipation. At 5:30 a.m., Wang Hui stood amidst the throng, her eyes reflecting the excitement and nostalgia that accompany the annual journey back home for the Spring Festival.
Despite having established a life in the vibrant metropolis of Shenzhen since her university days, Wang Hui feels the irresistible pull of her hometown each year. \"I've been in Shenzhen since university, and now I have my own family,\" she shared, smiling despite the early hour and the long journey ahead. \"But every year, as the Spring Festival approaches, I can't help but feel the pull of home.\"
Wang Hui and her family were among the first passengers to board the high-speed train departing at 6:08 a.m., embarking on the voyage from south China's Shenzhen City to northwest China's Xi'an City. The journey represents more than just distance covered; it's a cherished ritual symbolizing reunion and tradition during China's most significant holiday.
Nearby, another traveler, Ms. Zhong, prepared for her trip back to Chenzhou in central China's Hunan Province. Having lived in Shenzhen for over a decade, the city's rapid growth and endless opportunities have not diminished her longing for home during the Spring Festival. \"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.\"
The Spring Festival, also known as Chinese New Year, is a time when millions across the country journey homeward, reuniting with loved ones and honoring customs passed down through generations. For many like Wang Hui and Zhong, it's an annual pilgrimage that reaffirms familial bonds and cultural heritage.
The early morning departures from Shenzhen are a testament to the lengths people will go to share this special time with family. As trains depart and families reunite, the spirit of the Spring Festival comes alive, weaving together stories of tradition, togetherness, and the enduring connection to one's roots.
Reference(s):
China's Spring Festival: Record-breaking travel, cultural feast
cgtn.com
