Labor Day (observed)

📣 Traveler notes

China combines rich historical elements (art, architecture, engineering) with modern urban centers (Shanghai, Shenzhen) and scenic natural landscapes (Guilin's karst formations, Huangshan's granite peaks).

• Golden Weeks are major, weeks-long holidays (around Chinese New Year and National Day). Traveling during these times causes extreme crowding, high costs, and booking difficulties for transport.
• The Chinese New Year period involves a massive annual migration of people.
• China observes multiple national holidays, including New Year's Day (January 1st) and the Spring Festival.
• Major national holidays often lead to significant travel limitations.
• Chinese dining is often family-style, utilizing dishes served on a lazy Susan. Use chopsticks for most items, but spoons are acceptable for soups and porridges. Key customs include: Never stick chopsticks upright in food or pass food from one set of chopsticks to another. Use chopsticks in pairs. Avoid pointing at people or objects with chopsticks. When eating, wait for the most senior person to start. Do not return food to a communal dish.