China’s tourism and cultural sectors experienced a remarkable surge during the eight-day Spring Festival holiday that ended on Tuesday. With 501 million domestic trips made—a 5.9% increase from the previous year—and tourist spending hitting a record 677 billion yuan ($92.6 billion), the festival showcased a dynamic revival in travel and cultural activities.
This year’s Spring Festival was the first since its inclusion on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2024, prompting people across the country to dive deeper into traditional celebrations. From vibrant temple fairs to captivating lion and dragon dances, traditional events attracted massive crowds of locals and tourists alike.
Cultural performances flourished, with opera and folk arts gaining immense popularity, especially among young audiences. Museums became hotspots during the holiday, with the Palace Museum, Shaanxi History Museum, and Sanxingdui Museum welcoming unprecedented numbers of visitors. Exploring unique exhibitions has become a popular way for people to celebrate the Lunar New Year, blending modern interests with ancient heritage.
