As families reunite for lunar new year celebrations, China's transportation networks are handling an unprecedented 187.91 million cross-regional trips during the 2026 Spring Festival travel rush that began February 3. The Ministry of Transport reports a 13% surge in passenger volume compared to 2025 levels, marking the largest annual human migration event in history.
Railways bear the brunt of the demand with 12 million daily passengers, while roads account for 173.12 million trips. Air travel sees 2.19 million passengers taking to the skies daily, with waterways transporting 600,000 people. This year's travel peak coincides with the February 17 lunar new year celebration, triggering a nine-day national holiday period that will keep transportation hubs busy through March 13.
Analysts attribute the surge to pent-up demand for family reunions after pandemic-era restrictions and improved intercity connectivity. Business leaders note the travel boom signals strong consumer confidence ahead of the Year of the Horse, while transportation authorities have deployed additional high-speed trains and optimized flight schedules to manage passenger flows.
