Dragon Boat Festival: How travel trends are boosting China's tourism

As the Dragon Boat Festival approaches, China's tourism market is gearing up for another wave of travelers. The 2025 Dragon Boat Festival coincides with Children's Day, creating a unique blend of travel motivations and opportunities. For foreign residents in China, understanding the underlying economic dynamics of this travel trend can offer valuable insights into the evolving consumer behavior and the robustness of China's tourism sector. 

Rise of local and regional tourism

The Dragon Boat Festival, with its three-day holiday, has historically been a prime time for local and regional travel in China. This year is no exception, with domestic short-haul trips taking center stage. According to the latest report from Ctrip, a leading Chinese travel agency, local and surrounding area travel accounts for 50 percent of the total travel plans during this festival. This trend is driven by several factors, including the desire for quick getaways, the appeal of micro-vacations, and the convenience of shorter travel distances.

Data from Ctrip shows that the domestic short-distance travel booking volume during the 2025 Dragon Boat Festival holiday has increased by 23 percent year-on-year.

For foreign residents in China, this presents an excellent opportunity to explore nearby destinations without the hassle and expense of long-haul travel. The report indicates that the booking volume for domestic surrounding area travel during the Dragon Boat Festival has increased by 23 percent compared to the previous year. This growth not only reflects the increasing popularity of short trips but also highlights the economic vitality of China's regional tourism markets.

Economic impact of concerts and festivals

One of the most positive aspects of the 2025 Dragon Boat Festival travel trend is the significant role played by concerts and music festivals. The festival period coincides with a series of major concerts and music events across the country. For instance, the David Tao concert in Fuzhou, G.E.M. concert in Guizhou, and the Jacky Cheung concert in Chongqing have all sold out. These events are not just entertainment; they are powerful economic drivers.

The economic impact of these concerts is evident in the surge in hotel bookings in the host cities. Cities such as Jincheng, Dezhou, and Changzhou, which are hosting major concerts, have seen their hotel booking volumes increase exponentially. This phenomenon, known as the "concert tourism effect," demonstrates how cultural events can boost local economies by attracting visitors who spend on accommodation, dining, and other services.

For foreign residents, attending these concerts and festivals can be a unique way to experience Chinese culture and contribute to the local economy. Moreover, it provides an opportunity to witness firsthand how the integration of entertainment and travel can create significant economic value.

Travel Tips: Ticket prices for concerts may vary, so it's advisable to book them as early as possible to secure good seats. When visiting ethnic minority villages, respect the local customs and traditions. Also, be prepared for the spicy food in Chongqing if you're not used to it.

Appeal of traditional festivities and cultural experiences

Data from Ctrip shows that compared to last year, the search popularity for Dragon Boat Festival folk custom tours has increased by 50 percent year-on-year.

The Dragon Boat Festival is deeply rooted in Chinese tradition, and this year, the interest in traditional festivities and cultural experiences has reached new heights. According to Ctrip's data, the search volume for Dragon Boat Festival-related cultural experiences has increased by 50 percent compared to the previous year. Activities such as dragon boat racing, making zongzi (rice dumplings), and wearing perfume pouches are popular among both locals and foreigners.

The city of Foshan in Guangdong province has become a hotspot for dragon boat racing enthusiasts. The local dragon boat races, which have gained national attention, have led to a significant increase in tourism bookings. Similarly, places such as Miluo in Hunan province and Jiaxing in Zhejiang province, known for their connection to the festival's origins and zongzi production, have also seen a surge in visitor numbers.

For foreign residents, participating in these traditional activities offers a profound cultural experience and a chance to understand the historical and cultural significance of the festival. This cultural engagement not only enriches personal experiences but also supports the local tourism economy by increasing demand for cultural tourism products and services.

Travel Tips: It's recommended to book tickets for dragon boat races and zongzi-making workshops in advance. Also, learning some basic Chinese phrases related to the festival will enhance your interaction with locals.

Family and pet-friendly travel

Ctrip's report shows that family travel orders account for 35 percent of the total travel plans during this period, with a 45 percent increase in searches for family-friendly hotels.

The overlap of the Dragon Boat Festival with Children's Day has led to a significant increase in family travel. Ctrip's report shows that family travel orders account for 35 percent of the total travel plans during this period, with a 45 percent increase in searches for family-friendly hotels. This trend indicates a growing demand for high-quality family travel experiences, which is driving the development of family-oriented tourism products and services.

In addition to family travel, pet-friendly travel has also gained popularity. The report reveals a 20 percent increase in searches for pet-friendly hotels, with nearly 20 percent of hotels offering pet-friendly options. This trend reflects the growing importance of pets in Chinese households and the willingness of travelers to include their pets in their travel plans.

For foreign residents with families and pets, these trends offer a wide range of travel options that cater to diverse needs. The availability of family-friendly and pet-friendly accommodations and activities not only enhances the travel experience but also stimulates the tourism economy by attracting a broader range of travelers.

Travel Tips: When traveling with children, plan your itinerary with enough breaks to avoid fatigue. Prepare some snacks and toys for the kids. For pet-friendly travel, make sure to bring all the necessary supplies for your pet, such as food, water bowls, and a leash. Check the pet-friendly policies of hotels and transportation in advance.

Growing attraction of China's tourism market to international visitors

China's tourism market continues to attract international visitors, with the Dragon Boat Festival being no exception. The report indicates a more than 100 percent increase in searches for inbound travel during the festival. This trend is supported by China's visa-free policies, which have made it easier for international tourists to visit.

The report shows that in terms of popular destinations, the top 10 domestic destinations are Beijing, Shanghai, Nanjing, Chengdu, Hangzhou, Qingdao, Chongqing, Guangzhou, Tianjin, and Changsha.

The top inbound travel destinations include major cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou, which are known for their cultural, historical, and economic significance. For foreign residents in China, this trend highlights the growing international appeal of China's tourism market and the potential for further economic growth through inbound tourism.