Golden Week Travel in China: How to Plan Smart in 2025

Every year, Golden Week (October 1–7) marks one of the busiest travel seasons in China. Millions of locals hit the road to celebrate the National Day holiday, creating a festive yet crowded travel atmosphere.

If you’re planning to visit China in 2025, Golden Week can be both exciting and overwhelming. With the right planning, you can enjoy the celebrations while avoiding the stress of peak travel crowds.

Here’s everything you need to know to plan smart for Golden Week 2025.

What Is Golden Week?

Golden Week is a 7-day national holiday starting on October 1st, commemorating the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

During this time:

• Domestic travel surges – Popular tourist spots, trains, and airports are extremely crowded.
• Festivals & events – Expect parades, cultural shows, fireworks, and nationwide celebrations.
• Peak pricing – Hotels, flights, and tours are often more expensive.
  

Best Destinations to Visit During Golden Week 2025

While some major attractions like the Great Wall and Shanghai Bund get overcrowded, there are still excellent ways to enjoy Golden Week:

• Jiuzhaigou Valley (Sichuan) – Stunning autumn colors and turquoise lakes.
• Zhangjiajie (Hunan) – Unique sandstone pillars with magical misty views.
• Inner Mongolia Grasslands – Wide-open landscapes with fewer crowds.
• Lijiang & Shangri-La (Yunnan) – Ancient towns with Tibetan cultural influences.
• Hainan Island – A tropical escape away from mainland crowds.
  

Smart Travel Tips for Golden Week 2025

• Book Early – Reserve hotels, trains, and flights months in advance.
• Travel Before/After the Holiday – Arrive a few days early or extend your trip beyond October 7 to avoid peak rush.
• Choose Lesser-Known Destinations – Hidden gems and smaller cities will be more peaceful.
• Use High-Speed Rail – China’s train network is reliable and sometimes faster than flights during busy weeks.
• Plan for Flexibility – Expect large crowds at major attractions; having backup plans is essential.
  

What to Expect During Golden Week

• Festive Atmosphere: Streets, squares, and shopping malls are decorated with flags and lights.
• Cultural Experiences: Traditional performances, temple fairs, and local food festivals.
• Fireworks & Nightlife: Cities like Beijing and Shanghai light up the skies with dazzling shows.
  

Final Word

Golden Week in China is a unique cultural experience—a blend of celebration, travel excitement, and festive spirit. While the crowds can be challenging, with smart planning and the right itinerary, you can make the most of this extraordinary week.

At Nimbus Travels, we help international visitors navigate Golden Week smoothly with curated travel plans, exclusive experiences, and local insights. Let us make your 2025 Golden Week journey truly unforgettable.