Hundreds of millions of Chinese workers and students will soon head back to their hometowns, setting off a travel rush that will leave the country's megalopolises "empty", bring life back to the far-flung cities and almost vacant villages.
The lunar New Year, or Spring Festival, is the biggest holiday in China. It is seen as a time of family reunion and reconnection, prompting separated members to cross long distances and sit together at one table.
No matter how far parents or their offspring have to travel in China, they are always willing to make the journey home during Chinese New Year.