China’s cultural and tourism sectors smashed expectations during this year’s Spring Festival holiday, delivering a blockbuster performance that’s straight out of a travel influencer’s dream 🇨🇳✨. With over 501 million domestic trips recorded—a 5.9% jump from last year—and tourist spending soaring to a historic 677 billion yuan ($92.6 billion), the eight-day break proved the mainland’s post-pandemic vitality is no fluke.
🔥 Why it’s lit:
🎭 Cultural hotspots like Harbin’s ice sculptures and Xi’an’s Tang Dynasty-themed light shows went viral, blending tradition with Insta-worthy moments.
🚄 High-speed rail bookings surged as young travelers prioritized ‘experience-driven’ trips over routine stays.
📱 Tech-savvy spending: Mobile payments dominated, with platforms like Douyin (China’s TikTok) driving last-minute bookings and niche destination trends.
Analysts say the boom reflects growing consumer confidence and Beijing’s push to boost domestic demand. As one Shanghai-based entrepreneur told us: \"It’s not just travel—it’s about reclaiming shared cultural moments after years of restrictions.\" 🏮
With Lunar New Year tourism now accounting for nearly 6% of China’s annual GDP, this comeback story is one to watch 🌍💼.
