The Chinese Spring Festival, also known as Chinese New Year, is the most important traditional holiday in China. If you’re traveling to China during this period, you’ll experience a country filled with red lanterns, fireworks, family reunions, festive food, and lively temple fairs — but also busy transportation and temporary closures.

This guide explains what the Spring Festival is, what you’ll see, what’s open or closed, and how to plan your trip smoothly.

What Is the Chinese Spring Festival?

The Chinese Spring Festival marks the beginning of the Lunar New Year. It is a time when families reunite, honor ancestors, and welcome good luck for the year ahead.

Festival highlights include:

l Red lantern decorations

l Fireworks and firecrackers

l Family reunion dinners

l Lion and dragon dances

l Temple fairs and local celebrations

The main holiday lasts about 7 days, but celebrations often continue for 15 days, ending with the Lantern Festival.

When Is the Spring Festival in 2026?

In 2026, the Chinese Spring Festival falls in mid-February.
Travel disruptions and holiday closures usually start one week before and continue for one week after the official holiday.

If you plan to travel around this time, booking transport and tours in advance is highly recommended.

What Is It Like to Travel in China During Spring Festival?

Traveling during Spring Festival is unique but requires preparation:

✔ What You’ll Love

l Festive atmosphere everywhere

l Beautiful holiday decorations

l Special seasonal food

l Cultural performances and temple fairs

⚠ What to Prepare For

l Very busy trains and airports

l Some shops and restaurants closed

l Tourist attractions may have holiday hours

l Higher hotel prices in major cities

Traveling with a private guide and driver can save you time and help you avoid crowds and confusion.

What’s Open and What’s Closed?

Usually open:

l Major attractions (with holiday hours)

l Parks, temples, scenic spots

l Large shopping malls

l Tourist restaurants

Often closed or limited:

l Small family-run restaurants

l Local shops in residential areas

l Some museums for 1–3 days

Spring Festival Food to Try

During the Spring Festival, families prepare special dishes symbolizing luck and prosperity:

l Dumplings (饺子) – wealth and good fortune

l Fish (鱼) – abundance

l Sticky rice cakes (年糕) – growth and progress

l Sweet rice balls (汤圆) – family unity

Trying these foods with a local guide helps you understand their cultural meaning.

Travel Tips for Spring Festival Visitors

l Book flights, trains, and hotels early

l Avoid peak travel days if possible

l Expect crowds at major attractions

l Carry some cash as small shops may close

l Be flexible with schedules

l Consider private tours to reduce stress

Is Spring Festival a Good Time to Visit China?

Yes — if you are prepared.
Spring Festival offers a once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience, but it’s not the best time for travelers who prefer quiet sightseeing and empty attractions.

If this is your first time visiting China, having a local English-speaking guide makes the experience much smoother and more enjoyable.

Plan Your Spring Festival Trip with Leo’s Private Tour

Traveling during Spring Festival can be magical with the right planning.
Our local guides help you:

l Avoid peak crowds

l Find open restaurants

l Adjust itineraries during holiday closures

l Experience authentic festival culture

Explore Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Guilin, Chengdu, Zhangjiajie and more with Leo’s Private Tour.

Frequently Asked Questions – Chinese Spring Festival for Travelers

Q1: Is it a good time to travel to China during Spring Festival?
Yes, if you want to experience authentic Chinese culture and festive celebrations. However, it is also the busiest travel season of the year, so crowds and higher prices are common.

Q2: Are tourist attractions open during Chinese New Year?
Most major attractions remain open, but some may have holiday hours or be closed for 1–2 days. Small local shops and family-run restaurants may close temporarily.

Q3: Is transportation crowded during Spring Festival?
Yes. Trains, flights, and highways are extremely busy around Spring Festival. Booking transportation early is essential.

Q4: Can I still find restaurants open during Spring Festival?
Yes. Tourist restaurants, hotel restaurants, and large shopping mall food courts usually stay open. Smaller local restaurants may close for family reunions.

Q5: Should I book tours in advance during Spring Festival?
Yes. Guides, drivers, tickets, and popular attractions should be booked early due to high demand.

Q6: What food is traditionally eaten during Spring Festival?
Common festival foods include dumplings, fish, sticky rice cakes, and sweet rice balls, all symbolizing good luck and prosperity.