China’s railway network is gearing up for an unprecedented surge as approximately 144 million passenger trips are expected during the eight-day May Day holiday travel rush, which kicked off on Tuesday, according to the national railway operator.
This massive movement of people marks a 4.9 percent increase compared to the same period last year. Thursday is projected to witness the peak of the passenger flow, with millions of travelers embarking on their journeys across the country.
Popular destinations include vibrant cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Hangzhou, Wuhan, Shenzhen, Xi’an, Nanjing, and Zhengzhou, according to China’s 12306 railway booking platform. These cities are buzzing with attractions, from historical landmarks to modern entertainment, drawing in hordes of excited holidaymakers.
The most sought-after routes during this period are the Beijing-Shanghai, Xi’an-Chengdu, Beijing-Hohhot, Nanning-Guangzhou, Beijing-Shenyang, and Shenzhen-Hong Kong lines. Travelers are seizing the opportunity to explore diverse regions, experience different cultures, and reunite with family and friends.
To accommodate this significant increase in demand, China’s rail authorities have scheduled additional train services. An average of more than 12,000 passenger trains are operating each day throughout the holiday period. Measures such as deploying extra high-speed sleeper trains have been implemented to boost transport capacities in popular regions and during peak times.
The May Day holiday, also known as International Workers’ Day, is a prime time for travel in China, offering residents a chance to enjoy extended time off. With the easing of travel restrictions and the allure of domestic tourism, the railways are playing a crucial role in connecting people to their holiday destinations.
As the holiday continues, travelers are advised to plan ahead, book tickets early, and adhere to safety guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
