At 5:30 a.m., the buzz at Shenzhen North Railway Station is already palpable. Wang Hui, a mother and permanent resident of the bustling metropolis of Shenzhen, stands with her family, awaiting the first high-speed train to Xi'an, which departs at 6:08 a.m. Despite the early hour, her eyes shine with excitement.
\"I've been in Shenzhen since university, and now I have my own family,\" Wang said, smiling despite the long journey ahead. \"But every year, as the Spring Festival approaches, I can't help but feel the pull of home.\"
Wang is among millions of travelers making their way back to their hometowns for China's Spring Festival, a time-honored tradition that sees one of the largest human migrations in the world. For many, like Wang, it's not just a journey across provinces but a heartfelt return to roots and family.
Nearby, Ms. Zhong, who has lived in Shenzhen for over a decade, is heading back to Chenzhou in Hunan Province. \"I've planned this trip for a month,\" she shared. \"The Spring Festival is when you want to be with family and embrace the traditions that connect us.\"
Even as Shenzhen continues its rapid growth and modernization, the feelings of homesickness during the Spring Festival remain strong among its residents. The city's development has not diminished the cultural importance of this annual reunion.
For both Wang and Zhong, the journey is more than just a trip; it's a cherished ritual that reaffirms familial bonds and cultural heritage. As they board their trains, they carry with them not just luggage but the anticipation of reunions, shared meals, and the warmth of home.
Reference(s):
China's Spring Festival: Record-breaking travel, cultural feast
cgtn.com
