Lunar New Year’s Eve marks 195 million trips, sets to boost Chinese tourism industry

Monday, February 12, 2024

Chinese travellers have reignited their passion for domestic and international travel during the Lunar New Year, marking a significant rebound in the travel industry. On Lunar New Year’s Eve, domestic passenger traffic surged by 26.7% from the previous year, with a total of 195.24 million trips recorded across various modes of transportation. The majority of these trips were made by road, with over 184 million journeys, while rail and air travel also saw substantial increases, demonstrating a robust recovery in travel demand.

Ctrip, China’s leading travel company, reported an exceptional rise in transport demand, with ticket orders surpassing pre-pandemic levels, indicating a strong resurgence in travel enthusiasm. Popular destinations varied with the climate, with travelers from the colder northern regions opting for warmer southern locales like Hainan, Guangdong, and Yunnan provinces. Conversely, southerners sought out the winter wonderlands of the north, such as Harbin in Heilongjiang province, known for its famous ice festival, where bookings soared by 40%.

The travel industry‘s recovery is further highlighted by a significant increase in bookings for attractions, sightseeing tickets, and unique accommodation options, reflecting a diverse range of travel preferences. The demand for pet-friendly accommodations and private hot spring hotel rooms has notably increased, signaling a shift towards more personalized and comfortable travel experiences.

Ticket prices for domestic flights experienced a rise, indicating a strong demand for air travel, despite earlier concerns of adverse weather conditions potentially disrupting holiday plans. However, forecasts predicted milder weather, allowing for smoother travel experiences.

Internationally, Chinese tourists showed a keen interest in countries like Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore, benefiting from mutual visa-free agreements. Bookings for these destinations, along with Belt and Road Initiative countries, significantly exceeded those in the pre-pandemic period, showcasing a growing interest in international travel.

This resurgence in travel, both domestic and international, reflects a vibrant recovery of the travel sector, fueled by pent-up demand and the easing of travel restrictions. It represents a positive outlook for the industry, highlighting the enduring appeal of travel and exploration among Chinese tourists.

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