Hangzhou prepares for 147 million cross-regional trips during Spring Festival travel rush

Hangzhou forecasts 147 million cross-regional trips and 272 million total urban journeys during the 2026 Spring Festival travel rush from Feb 2 to March 13, up 4.6 percent and 3.9 percent year-on-year.

Independent car travel remains the dominant mode of travel. To meet surging demand, expressway service areas have significantly expanded charging capacity for electric vehicles.

At the Xiasha Service Area alone, the number of charging points has increased from 32 to 88, all fast or ultra-fast chargers, which now account for over 25 percent of parking spaces. Driver services have also been upgraded, including discounted meals for truck drivers and free hot water, medical supplies and mobile charging. On Chinese New Year's Eve on Feb 16, free dinners will be offered to night-time travelers.

Air and rail travel are also seeing strong demand. During the travel season, Hangzhou International Airport is expected to handle 5.65 million passengers, averaging 141,000 per day. Measures include expanded express boarding services on key routes and dedicated assistance hubs for elderly, disabled and first-time flyers.

At major rail hubs such as Hangzhou East and West stations, medical service points have been established, while metro operations, night buses and taxi capacity will be extended during peak periods to ensure smooth late-night connections.

Travelers walk through the Hangzhou International Airport on Feb 2, the first day of the 2026 Spring Festival travel rush. [Photo/Hangzhou International Airport]