Stocking up on Lunar New Year goods, visiting loved ones, indulging in reunion feasts, and attending vibrant temple fairs—China's Spring Festival, the most cherished traditional celebration, is not only a time for family reunions but has also become a major driver of consumption.
This year, with the Chinese government designating New Year's Eve as a statutory holiday, the Spring Festival holiday has been extended to eight days, creating even more opportunities for businesses to thrive.
Extended Holiday Fuels Tourism Boom
The eight-day holiday has sparked people's enthusiasm for travel. According to the Ministry of Transport, this year's Spring Festival travel rush is expected to set new records in total trips. Over the 40-day period, cross-regional travel is projected to reach 9 billion trips.
During this Spring Festival, many Chinese are opting for both family reunions and travel. \"The longer holiday gives me the flexibility to both visit family and take a trip,\" said Fang Ying from Lanzhou City, Gansu Province, who plans to reunite with her family before heading to Japan for skiing.
Businesses across China are already feeling the positive effects of the extended holiday. Retailers are witnessing a surge in sales of festive goods, while the tourism industry is preparing for an influx of travelers both domestically and abroad.
Travel agencies report a significant increase in bookings for international destinations, with popular choices including Japan, Thailand, and the Maldives. Domestically, scenic spots and cultural heritage sites are expected to welcome millions of visitors.
As the Spring Festival approaches, the festive atmosphere is set to invigorate China's economy, providing a much-needed boost across various sectors. With extended time to celebrate, Chinese people are embracing the opportunity to share joy with family and explore new horizons.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
