Stocking up on Chinese 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 tourism enthusiasm. 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 opted 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.
Boost to Retail and Hospitality Sectors
The extended holiday period is a boon for retailers and the hospitality industry. Markets and shopping centers across the country have seen increased foot traffic as people stock up on festive goods. Restaurants are also reporting full bookings for reunion dinners, as families gather to celebrate the Lunar New Year.
\"Our sales have doubled compared to last year,\" said Li Wei, a shop owner in Beijing's Wangfujing shopping district. \"The extended holiday gives people more time to shop and enjoy the festivities.\"
Cultural Celebrations in Full Swing
Temple fairs and cultural events are in full swing, attracting both locals and tourists. Traditional performances, lantern displays, and folk art exhibitions offer a rich cultural experience, adding to the festive atmosphere.
\"I love experiencing the traditional customs during the Spring Festival,\" said Zhang Ming, a visitor at a temple fair in Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province. \"It's a great way to connect with our heritage and share it with the younger generation.\"
Reference(s):
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