China's railway network is gearing up for a historic New Year holiday season, with authorities predicting 77.8 million passenger trips between December 31, 2025, and January 4, 2026. The China State Railway Group (CSRG) announced enhanced operational plans to manage the five-day travel rush, which coincides with both New Year celebrations and winter tourism demand.
Peak travel is expected on January 1, 2026, as families reunite and tourists visit popular destinations. The CSRG has deployed additional trains on high-demand routes connecting major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, while implementing real-time crowd management systems at key hubs.
Safety remains a top priority, with upgraded maintenance checks on rolling stock and infrastructure. Travelers can access improved digital services including AI-powered ticketing assistance and multilingual support portals – crucial enhancements for international visitors exploring China during the holiday period.
