During China's eight-day National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday, domestic tourism hit new highs with 2.4 billion trips, up 6% year-on-year. That's an average of over 300 million journeys per day.
Rick Dunham, Co-Director of the Global Business Journalism Program at Tsinghua University, sees this surge as a clear signal of economic vitality: "When millions choose to explore homegrown cultural sites or book experiential tours, they're voting with their wallets."
Museum visits led the way, buoyed by interactive exhibits and digital enhancements. Immersive art installations and themed experiences drew crowds seeking authentic, shareable moments.
Improved transport convenience also played a key role. High-speed rail expansions and streamlined booking apps made spontaneous getaways easier, while policies boosting disposable income gave wallets extra breathing room.
For entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and digital nomads, this holiday boom offers insights into rising consumer confidence in the Chinese mainland. Opportunities abound in experiential travel, cultural tech, and sustainable tourism as spending habits evolve.
Looking ahead, the data underscores the resilience of domestic demand. With strong infrastructure, smart policies, and a generation driven by experiences, China's travel and consumer sectors are poised for continued growth.
Reference(s):
China's 8-day holiday boom: Economic dynamism and resilience
cgtn.com
