As dawn breaks over Shenzhen North Railway Station, the usually bustling metropolis takes on a different hue. At 5:30 a.m., Wang Hui stands amidst a sea of travelers, her eyes reflecting both fatigue and excitement. She, along with her family, is preparing to board the first high-speed train bound for Xi'an, a journey that will take her back to her hometown in northwest China.
\"I've been in Shenzhen since university,\" Wang shares, her voice barely audible over the station's announcements. \"Now I have my own family here, but every year, as the Spring Festival approaches, I can't help but feel the pull of home.\"
Wang is not alone in this sentiment. The Spring Festival, also known as Chinese New Year, is the most significant traditional holiday in China, prompting the world's largest annual human migration. Millions of people across the country embark on journeys to reunite with loved ones, honoring traditions that span centuries.
Another traveler, Ms. Zhong, is also awaiting her train. Originally from Chenzhou in Hunan Province, she has lived in Shenzhen for over a decade. Despite the city's rapid growth and opportunities, the longing for her hometown intensifies during this season.
\"I've planned this trip for a month,\" Zhong says, clutching a bag filled with gifts. \"The Spring Festival is when you want to be with family and embrace the traditions that connect us.\"
The trains are not just carrying passengers; they are ferrying stories of reunion, hope, and the enduring importance of family ties. The high-speed rail network, a symbol of China's modern advancements, becomes the vessel through which ancient customs are upheld.
This year, travel bookings have surged, reflecting a renewed eagerness to reconnect after periods of separation. The Ministry of Transport anticipates a record number of travelers, as people from all walks of life make their way home.
For Wang Hui and Zhong, the journey is more than just physical. It's a return to roots, a rekindling of memories, and a reaffirmation of cultural identity. As they board their respective trains, the hum of the engines echoes the heartbeat of a nation on the move.
The Spring Festival travel rush is a testament to the strength of familial bonds and the lengths to which people will go to honor them. It's a cultural phenomenon that not only highlights China's vast and efficient transportation infrastructure but also underscores the timeless values that continue to unite its people.
Reference(s):
China's Spring Festival: Record-breaking travel, cultural feast
cgtn.com
