China's Hainan Free Trade Port is preparing for an unprecedented Spring Festival travel surge, with officials projecting over 22 million trips during the six-week period starting February 2. The tropical destination's combination of warm winter weather and streamlined customs policies positions it as a top choice for travelers in early 2026.
Winter Tourism Magnet With average temperatures of 22°C (72°F), Hainan's beaches and resorts are attracting northern travelers escaping colder climates. Transportation official Mu Kerui reports a projected 5% year-on-year increase in overall travel, including 10% growth in ferry traffic and 3.7% rise in air passengers.
Customs Policy Impact The December 2025 launch of Hainan's island-wide special customs operation has already shown dramatic results. Foreign arrivals jumped 46% year-on-year to 186,000 in its first month, with 87,000 visitors benefiting from expanded visa-free access now covering 86 countries.
Economic Implications The travel boom coincides with Hainan's development as a free trade port, offering business professionals insights into China's consumer trends and infrastructure capabilities. Analysts suggest the seasonal surge could test new logistics systems designed for the province's growing international role.
