China's Lunar New Year Travel Rush Anticipates Record 9.5 Billion Trips
China is preparing for its annual Lunar New Year travel rush, known as 'chunyun,' with an estimated 9.5 billion trips expected over a 40-day period. This marks a record high for the world's largest human migration event. The National Development and Reform Commission reports that 540 million of these trips will be made by train, while 95 million will be by air, with the remainder occurring on the road. The festival, which begins on February 17, is a significant time for Chinese workers, who often endure long working hours and limited vacation time. Many travelers, like Liu Zhiquan, opt for slower, more affordable train journeys to return to their hometowns and spend time with family. The event underscores the cultural importance of the Lunar New Year as a rare opportunity for family reunions and celebrations. 
