Traveling in China during peak holidays, like the National Day Golden Week (October 1-8) and Labor Day (May 1-5), means higher crowds, busy tourist spots, and increased prices. These holidays are important in Chinese culture. National Day celebrates the founding of the People’s Republic of China and overlaps with the Mid-Autumn Festival, creating a longer travel period. The Labor Day holiday, while shorter, also sees a rise in domestic tourism.
1. Labour Day Holiday (May 1st)
Labor Day marks the start of China’s Golden Week, when millions of people travel or visit family. This causes crowded cities and popular destinations, with transportation hubs like airports and train stations packed, and hotel prices often doubling or tripling.
When to avoid visiting China:
The week around May 1st is busy, with the peak happening from April 29 to May 1. During this time, even less-touristy cities see large crowds.
How to avoid the China chaos:
- Book accommodations and tickets well in advance if you must travel during this period.
- Choose destinations that are off the beaten path and less likely to be overwhelmed by domestic tourists.
- If possible, avoid traveling from April 28 to May 5.
2. National Day Holiday (October 1st) – The Busiest Time for Domestic Travel
National Day kicks off a seven-day Golden Week, China’s biggest holiday. Major tourist spots, cultural landmarks, and nature sites get crowded with locals. Attractions can feel overcrowded, and transportation is at its busiest, making train and flight bookings harder to get and more expensive.
When to avoid:
Similar to Labor Day, National Day sees a sharp increase in travel activity from October 1st to October 7th. The first and last days of the holiday (October 1st and 7th) are particularly intense.
How to avoid the chaos:
- Avoid popular destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an during this time, as these cities will be swarmed by tourists.
- If you must visit major sites, book everything as early as possible—attractions, transport, and hotels.
- Consider exploring lesser-known regions or opt for smaller cities where domestic tourism is not as concentrated.
While Labor Day and National Day are incredibly busy, with the right planning, you can still enjoy China during these times. Avoid last-minute bookings, prepare for potential crowds, and plan alternative routes or attractions. Traveling just before or after these holidays will give you the chance to experience China without the chaos—ensuring a more relaxing, enjoyable trip.
