China's railways transported 121 million passengers during the 2026 Spring Festival travel period, according to Tuesday's announcement from the national railway operator. The figures highlight the continued importance of rail transport in facilitating the world's largest annual human migration, despite recent expansions to high-speed networks.
Economic Implications of Seasonal Mobility
This year's travel surge coincides with increased domestic consumption patterns observed across major cities. Analysts suggest the robust passenger numbers indicate both restored public confidence in mass transit systems and sustained urban-rural connectivity improvements. The railway operator has deployed 12,000 additional temporary services to manage peak travel days around the Lunar New Year celebrations.
