As China's eight-day National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday commenced Wednesday, iconic sites like Beijing's Forbidden City and the Great Wall welcomed waves of visitors, with crimson flags adorning streets nationwide. The dual celebration – marking both modern China's founding and the traditional mooncake-centered reunion festival – has created a unique blend of patriotic fervor and cultural nostalgia.
Domestic Tourism Rebounds Amid Economic Optimism
Early reports from travel platforms show hotel bookings up 160% compared to 2022, with high-speed rail routes to destinations like Hangzhou's West Lake operating at full capacity. "This holiday lets us appreciate both our heritage and modern development," said Shanghai resident Li Wei, visiting the Yellow Mountains with his family. Analysts note the tourism boom signals growing consumer confidence, with domestic trips expected to generate over $86 billion in revenue.
Cultural Celebrations Bridge Generations
From lantern-lit night markets in Xi'an to calligraphy workshops at Nanjing's Confucius Temple, activities emphasize China's 5,000-year civilization while showcasing contemporary innovations. The Taiwan Strait sees increased family reunions too, with many residents of Taiwan joining mainland relatives for moon-gazing gatherings – a tradition dating back centuries.
