Traditionally, the Spring Festival is a time to reunite with family at home. But in recent years, more people have been traveling during the week-long break. Yang Jinghao reports on the trend from southwest China's Yunnan Province.
These three families are from different parts of the country. They are gathering in the border city of Ruili in southwest China's Yunnan Province to welcome the Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival.
Setting out from their own homes by driving recreational vehicles, they get to know each other and become friends during the journey.
ZHANG TAO Traveler from Heilongjiang "We chose this lifestyle partly to escape the cold. In the summer, we return home, and in the winter, we travel to warmer places and celebrate the Spring Festival there. As for our child, she usually flies in to join us during the holiday."
While many are still racing to secure tickets home for the most important holiday of the year, more and more people are choosing to celebrate elsewhere. And the long-held tradition of family reunions have also taken on a new meaning.
ZHOU HANFANG Traveler from Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region "Our child is now in his 30s, with a family and career of his own. We no longer feel the need to worry about each other. Although we're far apart, our frequent video calls make the distance feel almost nonexistent."
Some even choose to temporarily settle down for a more immersive experience. Huang Yuezhen from Shanghai rented an apartment in Ruili in December, attracted by its warm weather and hot springs.
HUANG YUEZHEN Traveler from Shanghai "I plan to meet up with some local friends. They told me that traditions like praying for blessings at temples and setting off firecrackers during the festival are still alive and vibrant here. Back in Shanghai, we haven't seen or heard these things for decades."
Many say this lifestyle is rewarding, allowing them to enjoy natural beauty, experience diverse local cultures, and meet new friends along the way.
YANG JINGHAO Ruili, Yunnan "Look, who could resist such a musical extravaganza bursting with festive spirit?"
In Yunnan, a popular tourist destination, local governments are introducing a range of measures to help both short-stay travelers and sojourners feel at home.
MAO GANSHENG Resident of Ruili, Yunnan "My hometown is full of fun and delicious food, so we warmly welcome friends from across the country and around the world to visit and experience our unique ethnic culture and traditions."
Many say that while the forms of celebrating the festival are evolving, their respect for many traditions remain steadfast. And where family is, there's home.
YANG JINGHAO Ruili, Yunnan "Dumplings are a must-eat during the Spring Festival in many parts of China. With this delicious dish, we wish you all a happy and prosperous year! Happy Chinese New Year!"
YJH, CGTN, Ruili, Yunnan Province.