Story perspectives

China Braces for 9.5 Billion Lunar New Year Trips

2/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

Hundreds of millions of people in China are traveling to their hometowns for the Lunar New Year festival, which begins on February 17.
Liu Zhiquan, a construction worker, is taking a 30-hour train journey to Chengdu because of economic difficulties.
China’s government estimates 9.5 billion trips will occur during the 40-day period, with 540 million by train.
The festival is a vital time for families to reunite, as many workers have limited time off.
Separately, a viral “Crying Horse” toy highlights the struggles of young employees in a tough job market, and social media users are humorously adopting sticky rice cakes as pets.

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Story summary

Hundreds of millions of people in China are traveling to their hometowns for the Lunar New Year festival, which begins on February 17.
Liu Zhiquan, a construction worker, is taking a 30-hour train journey to Chengdu because of economic difficulties.
China’s government estimates 9.5 billion trips will occur during the 40-day period, with 540 million by train.
The festival is a vital time for families to reunite, as many workers have limited time off.
Separately, a viral “Crying Horse” toy highlights the struggles of young employees in a tough job market, and social media users are humorously adopting sticky rice cakes as pets.