China's railway network is experiencing a historic surge in travel as millions embark on journeys for the Dragon Boat Festival, a cultural event steeped in tradition. The national railway operator reported 17.8 million passenger trips on Saturday alone, with 1,029 additional trains deployed to manage the holiday rush.
Major hubs like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou are leading as top destinations, while cities including Chengdu and Hangzhou are witnessing unprecedented foot traffic. Railway authorities have introduced cultural activities at stations and enhanced services to accommodate travelers during the five-day period, which is projected to see 80.5 million rail journeys nationwide.
"Our teams are prioritizing both capacity and passenger experience," a representative from China State Railway Group Co., Ltd. stated, noting that 15.78 million trips were smoothly handled on Friday ahead of the holiday peak. The measures reflect China's ongoing efforts to modernize its transport infrastructure while preserving cultural heritage.
This travel boom highlights the festival's enduring significance and offers insights into regional economic activity, with analysts noting potential impacts on tourism revenue and consumer spending patterns across Asia.
