China: National Day Golden Week October 1-7

Event

Crowded conditions and disruptions are expected for China's upcoming week-long National Day celebrations, known as Golden Week. The public holiday officially lasts from Monday, October 1, through Wednesday, October 3, though it observed from Monday through Sunday, October 7. More than 500 million people are expected to travel domestically and internationally, particularly to nearby locations such as South Korea, Japan, and Thailand. The Chinese government is suspending some tolls and increasing train services to assist with the anticipated surge of travelers, but crowded conditions and delays are still expected at major transportation hubs. Disruptions to daily life, including government services, businesses, and many shops, are likely. Hotels and other tourist services are likely to be crowded or booked. National Day celebrations will be held on October 1 across the country, with large events in Tiananmen Square (Beijing), The Bund (Shanghai), and Golden Bauhinia Square and Victoria Harbour (Hong Kong). 

Advice

Individuals in or traveling to China are advised to anticipate transportation delays, government and business disruptions, increased security presence, and crowded conditions at transit hubs, highways, tourist destinations, and hotels.