At 5:30 a.m., Wang Hui stood at Shenzhen North Railway Station, waiting to board the first high-speed train departing at 6:08 a.m. from the bustling city of Shenzhen to the historic northwest city of Xi'an. Traveling with her family, Wang was among the millions journeying across the Chinese mainland to celebrate the Spring Festival.
A permanent resident in Shenzhen, Wang shared her enduring connection to her hometown. \"I've been in Shenzhen since university, and 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,\" she said, her eyes reflecting both excitement and nostalgia.
Another traveler, Ms. Zhong, was heading back to Chenzhou in central China's Hunan Province. Having lived in Shenzhen for over a decade, she expressed that the city's rapid growth had never diminished her homesickness during the Spring Festival. \"I've planned this trip for a month. The Spring Festival is when you want to be with family and embrace the traditions that connect us,\" Zhong said warmly.
This year's Spring Festival has seen record-breaking travel across the Chinese mainland. With advancements in transportation infrastructure, more people are able to return to their hometowns, making the journey smoother and more efficient. High-speed trains like the one Wang Hui boarded have become symbols of the nation's development, bridging vast distances and bringing families together.
The festival, which is the most important traditional holiday in China, is not only a time for family reunions but also a cultural feast. From lantern festivals to traditional performances, communities across the country are embracing time-honored customs. The surge in travel reflects the deep-rooted significance of these traditions in the hearts of the people.
For many, like Wang and Zhong, the journey home is more than just a trip; it's a pilgrimage to their roots. As cities like Shenzhen continue to grow and evolve, the Spring Festival remains a steadfast reminder of cultural heritage and family bonds that transcend time and distance.
