Sometimes confused with the Mid-Autumn Festival due to the proximity and sometimes juxtaposition of dates, the Golden Week holiday period occurs twice every year in China, the most prominent on the occasion of the National Day and the other on the occasion of the Lunar New Year. During these times, millions of Chinese citizens travel, celebrate and spend time with family.
The Golden Week is considered more than just a holiday, but a cultural phenomenon that encapsulates the spirit of modern Chinese society. As families come together to travel, celebrate and enjoy leisure activities, the period highlights the country’s growth and the evolving lifestyle of its citizens.
1. History
The Golden Week holiday was first introduced in 1999 to stimulate domestic tourism and boost the economy. It refers to the seven-day holiday period that starts on 1 October – the National Day, commemorating the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. Typically taking place from 1 October to 7 October, the government often adjusts work schedules to create a continuous holiday, with the weekends preceding or following the week shifted to provide longer breaks.
The week has since become synonymous with mass travel and leisure activities, showcasing the vibrant culture and modern lifestyle of Chinese citizens. In addition to the National Day, the Spring Festival, which celebrates the lunar new year, also features a Golden Week. This festival usually falls between late January and mid-February, depending on the lunar calendar.
2. Travel boom and celebrations
With millions of people taking time off work, tourist attractions across the country experience the highest visitor numbers of the year. Popular destinations such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City and various natural parks become bustling hubs filled with families and travellers in the first week of October. Travel agencies often prepare special packages to accommodate the high demand, while hotels, airlines and transportation services see a significant increase in bookings.
However, the influx can also lead to overcrowded public transport and long lines at attractions, prompting many to plan their trips well in advance or seek alternative destinations. Some destinations, like the Great Wall, especially Badaling and Mutianyu, and the Forbidden City implement stricter visitor quotas and require often require visitors to book timed entry tickets in advance during the Golden Week to mitigate overcrowding.
Beyond travel, the Golden Week involves various cultural celebrations, with local festivals, performances and events organized to enhance the festive spirit. Cities often host fireworks displays, concerts and traditional performances that highlight local customs and heritage.
3. Shopping and economic impact
Shopping is another major activity during the holiday period, with retailers offering significant discounts and promotions, enticing consumers to spend. This results in bustling shopping districts filled with customers eager to take advantage of the sales. E-commerce platforms also see a spike in activity, reflecting the digital transformation of retail in China.
The economic impact of the Golden Week is so substantial that it serves as a barometer for consumer confidence and economic health in the country. Increased spending during this period contributes significantly to local economies and supports various sectors, including hospitality, retail and transportation.
