China travel answer · Planning
Which public holidays should I avoid when traveling in China?
Reviewed 2026-07-15 · Conditions and policies can change
CT
Written & reviewed by China Travel Atlas Editorial Team
China Travel Specialists|Based in Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai|Last updated: 2026-07-15
Direct answer
The highest-pressure periods are usually the Spring Festival travel season and the National Day holiday around early October. Transport, major attractions and hotels can be much busier, while exact statutory holiday dates are announced for each year.
What to know
- ●Check the official annual holiday calendar before fixing non-refundable dates.
- ●Book transport and major attractions as early as their current sales windows allow.
- ●If you must travel then, use fewer bases, allow longer transfers and avoid tight connections.
Primary sources to verify
Use the source below to recheck time-sensitive conditions for your exact passport, route or travel date.