Record-Breaking Travel Surge Hits China's National Day Holiday

China's national railway saw unprecedented travel numbers with 23.13 million trips on the first day of its eight-day National Day holiday. The holiday coincides with the Mid-Autumn Festival, extending it to eight days. Authorities are hopeful for an economic boost amid sluggish growth, as travelers explore cost-effective destinations.

China's railway network experienced an unprecedented surge in travel as 23.13 million trips were recorded on the first day of the country's extended eight-day National Day holiday, marking an increase of nearly 8% from the previous year, according to state media outlet CCTV.

On Thursday, more than 19 million trips were projected across the nation's railway system, with the Yangtze River Delta Railway alone expected to manage four million passengers, a rise exceeding 10% from the prior year. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism plans to disclose total travel statistics after the holiday period, ending on October 8, to gauge consumer demand and China's economic health.

The holiday, aligning with the traditional Mid-Autumn Festival, has seen travelers opt for cost-efficient voyages, as shared on social media, including traveling by night to reduce accommodation costs. Authorities hope this period will stimulate domestic spending, as the economy faces sluggish growth. Alternative destinations, such as Chizhou, Anhui, are becoming popular among budget-minded tourists.

(With inputs from agencies.)