Taiwan: Taiwan to mark Qingming Festival April 1-5

Event

Taiwan will mark Qingming Festival April 1-5. Millions of people will tend to their ancestors' gravesites during the festival, and many businesses and most government facilities will close for the holidays.

Large numbers of people typically travel before, during, and after Qingming. Private vehicle use will likely spike, resulting in significant congestion on national highways, as well as an increase in accidents. Traffic disruptions are possible even in relatively remote communities, as many people will travel to ancestral villages and tombs located in rural areas. The high volume of passengers may affect rail, bus, and airline networks. The holiday also carries an increased risk of fires, especially in forested areas, as many participants will burn symbolic paper offerings in honor of their ancestors.

Advice

Confirm all rail, bus, and airline reservations. Arrive earlier than normal at transport hubs due to probable delays at check-in counters and security checkpoints. Drive defensively due to heavy traffic on major thoroughfares, and consider minimizing unnecessary driving on days before and after the holiday observance.