BEIJING/SHANGHAI – Chinese tourists are expected to embark on longer trips during the Golden Week holiday, starting on October 1, but economic concerns may dampen spending, according to travel industry experts.
Despite the extended week-long National Day break, which traditionally spurs high travel volumes, sluggish economic growth and low consumer confidence have led many to opt for cheaper domestic and short-haul overseas destinations. Falling airfares have also encouraged more budget-conscious travel choices.
Government forecasts predict only a modest 0.7% year-on-year increase in daily trips handled by the national transport sector. Experts suggest that maintaining flat tourism spending levels compared to last year would be a good outcome, given the economic backdrop.
For many, destinations within China remain attractive. Beijing office worker Wang Xin, for example, plans a family road trip to Yangzhou, avoiding train fares and benefiting from the absence of toll fees during the holiday. She acknowledges a more frugal approach, saying, “Better not to spend unnecessary money when the economy is like this.”
Domestic airfares are down 21% compared to last year, while international economy class fares have dropped 25%, with short-haul destinations such as Japan, South Korea, Thailand, and Singapore being top choices. However, some travellers are also opting for longer trips to Australia, New Zealand, and Europe, capitalizing on reduced airfares.
Although some airlines have cut or halted China flights due to reduced demand, there are exceptions, with Korean Air reporting improving regional travel demand and launching new routes to and from China.