China, Korea, Vietnam: Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations likely in several East Asian countries Sept. 21

Event

Millions of people in countries throughout East and Southeast Asia will celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival Sept. 21. Although international travel is significantly lower in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, major transport disruptions are likely in China, South Korea, and Vietnam Sept. 17-22, as large numbers of people travel to attend celebrations. Incidents of petty crime will probably increase during the holiday, especially at crowded transport hubs and tourist attractions.

China
The Mid-Autumn Festival will be celebrated Sept. 21 in mainland China, with public holidays running Sept. 19-21. Heavy travel volume is highly likely nationwide from Sept. 17. Increased traffic congestion typically occurs on Chinese expressways, including the G4 (Beijing to Hong Kong), G6 (Beijing to Tibet), and G45 (Hebei- Beijing-Henan) highways. Significant delays are also possible on regional expressways near popular tourist attractions. Crowded conditions could occur on regional planes, trains, and buses.

Hong Kong SAR and Macau SAR will observe the holiday Sept. 22; however, significant transport delays are unlikely. Travel between mainland China and Macau has resumed, and increased congestion is possible at Macau International Airport (MFM) and border checkpoints with Zhuhai, Guangdong Province.

South Korea
South Korea will celebrate the festival, known as Chuseok, Sept. 20-22. The government has warned residents to limit trips during the holiday and has closed national cemeteries to dissuade travelers due to COVID-19; nevertheless, millions of South Koreans are likely to travel for Chuseok. Significant road congestion is possible in and around major urban areas. Delays are likely on national expressways, especially on Expressway No. 1 (Gyeongbu Expressway), connecting Seoul to Suwon, Daejeon, Gumi, Daegu, and Busan. Increased congestion is likely on regional planes, trains, and buses.

Vietnam
Vietnam will celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival on Sept. 21. Traffic congestion is most likely to occur in large cities where COVID-19 activity is relatively stable, but countrywide transport disruptions are unlikely. Significant delays are unlikely in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi due to ongoing restrictions in parts of those cities. Expect larger-than-normal crowds at some transport hubs throughout the country.

Advice

Reconfirm all rail, bus, and airline reservations if traveling during the holiday period. Airports will likely be very crowded, especially in mainland China; arrive earlier than usual due to volume delays at check-in counters and security checkpoints. Heavy traffic is likely on main highways; drive defensively and consider minimizing unnecessary trips on the days before and after the public observance of the holidays. Anticipate possible delivery delays; consider alternative transport for time-sensitive shipments. Take extra precautions to secure money and valuables. Plan for higher demand for hotels and taxis in tourist areas, as well as potential price gouging.