Golden Week is one of the largest holidays in China, and it is an incredible opportunity for both local and international visitors to experience the country when it’s the most lively.
However, because so many people travel around China during the holiday and the popular tourist attractions get packed, it’s essential to be prepared and know what to expect so you can make the most of the week.
Whether you want to take in cultural activities, visit the cities, or head out into nature, here’s my complete guide to Golden Week.
What is Golden Week?
In China, Golden Week is the name given to the two most important national holidays that occur each year. It’s a great time to travel, experience Chinese culture, or simply relax.
Here’s everything you need to know about Golden Week:
Chinese New Year Golden Week (Spring Festival)
Late January to February: The date varies each year as it is based on lunar calendar.
Duration: 7days though this can differ in some parts of the country depending on regional customs and work patterns.
Importance: Lunar New Year marks the beginning of a new year according to the lunar calendar and is the most important traditional Chinese holiday. It is a time for family, fireworks, food, and cultural performances.
Travel Focus: This is the time of year when most family reunions occur, with people going back to visit their families in their hometowns. This is the busiest time of year to book trains or flights.
National Day Golden Week
October 1–7: This is the celebration of the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949.
Duration: 7 days.
Importance: The National Day Golden Week is when the biggest shows are put on, such as parades, fireworks, and other public performances. It’s a large-scale holiday when many Chinese people will be on vacation and traveling or visiting these festivals.
Focus: Golden Week is more of a tourism-focused holiday compared to the Chinese New Year. Lots of people head to popular tourist destinations around the country, so major cities and attractions can be crowded.
Impact of Golden Week
Golden Week has a huge impact on life in China: from travel to the economy, many different areas are affected by this national holiday.
Here are a few:
1. Travel Surge and Transportation Congestion
Because so many people travel within China, transportation infrastructure, like trains, planes, and roads, gets overburdened.
This creates slow-moving lines and, occasionally, chaotic situations at major travel centers, such as airports and train stations.
2. Tourism Boom
Both domestic and foreign tourism skyrocket during Golden Week.
Attractions get busy and hotels and lodging are sold out weeks before dates thus leading to the growth of the domestic tourism industry.
3. Economic Growth
And with the sheer volume of tourists and shoppers, Golden Week is a net economic positive for China.
Businesses within the hospitality, retail, and transportation industries benefit the most, as they experience a significant increase in customers or sales.
4. Cultural and National Pride
Golden Week, and National Day in general, is also seen as a time for the people to commemorate their nation’s rise to success.
Parades, public celebrations, and fireworks help instill national pride and create a culture of solidarity and shared celebration.
5. Family Reunions and Social Impact
Golden Week is about bringing family together, and that’s all the more evident during Chinese New Year Golden Week, when millions of ethnic Chinese return to their families to reconnect and spend the holiday together.
The holiday is the time where family ties are strengthened, with the traditional values of unity and respect being incorporated.
Tips for Traveling During Golden Week
Golden Week in China is one of the most exciting but difficult times to travel as everyone is on the move.
To help ensure a smooth journey, here are a handful of useful Golden Week travel tips.
1. Book Travel and Accommodations Early
When millions of people are traveling, be sure to book your flights, trains, and hotel stays early.
Destinations sell out and waitlisting will leave you subject to the rates available instead of the dates you want.
2. Pack Smart and Plan for the Weather
In addition, prepare for the destination’s weather.
Since Golden Week stretches across China, temperatures can vary considerably so be sure to pack for the season and double-check the weather forecast before you go.
3. Stay Flexible with Itinerary
Given the sheer number of tourists, it’s best to arrive with a flexible schedule.
Major sights will be overwhelmed, so try to visit at off-peak times or skip them altogether and go to some of the alternative sites.
4. Budget for Extra Costs
Just note that bus, train, plane fare, and accommodations have been known to increase during Golden Week, making it an expensive time to visit.
Be sure to plan for that and budget for increased tourist prices that week.
5. Stay Safe and Follow Local Guidelines
Always adhere to the local precautions and procedures, whether dealing with health, safety on the roads, or appropriate conduct in public.
And when it’s busy, exercising common sense is particularly key to avoid accidents and theft.
6. Use E-Commerce for Convenience:
Online shopping sites are all over the place during Golden Week, so using e-commerce for tickets, restaurants, and even transportation can be a real time and energy saver.
FAQ
1. Should I visit China during Golden Week?
If you like big, loud, festive environments, come during Golden Week. If you’re not into revelry on that scale and want a more peaceful time, head for somewhere that won’t be as busy during Golden Week.
2. Where should you go in the Golden Week?
Good places to go during Golden Week are major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an, as well as more scenic spots like Zhangjiajie and the Yellow Mountains.
Conclusion
Golden Week in China is a festive season, but it creates its own set of hurdles for travelers. Knowing what to expect and being prepared can help you navigate the country and have a better visit.
Whether you’re looking to witness the holiday customs, explore the country’s main sights, or simply soak up the festive ambiance, it’s a great time to visit.