China’s 2026 Spring Festival travel rush officially began on Feb. 2. Over the 40-day travel period, Guangdong province is expected to see approximately 1.159 billion cross regional passenger trips.

A more extensive transport network, warmer passenger services, and smarter digital systems are shaping what officials describe as “a Spring Festival travel season full of vitality and human warmth” across the Guangdong Hong Kong Macao Greater Bay Area.

Two major rail projects — the Guangzhou–Zhanjiang High-Speed Railway and the Shantou–Shantou South section of the Shantou–Shanwei High-Speed Railway — are making their Spring Festival debut. The Guangzhou–Zhanjiang line will operate 132 trains during the travel period, while an additional 30 trains have been added between the Guangzhou–Shenzhen region and Shantou. Peak time services will see 66 extra trains, significantly improving connectivity for passengers traveling to and from eastern and western Guangdong.

Guangzhou Baiyun Railway Station is also taking on a new role this year, fully handling conventional temporary passenger trains for the first time. The “high speed + conventional rail” dual network model is expected to ease pressure on major transport hubs.

Meanwhile, Guangzhou Baiyun Railway Station has launched a smart parking system ahead of the travel rush. By scanning a QR code at station exits or elevators, passengers can instantly locate their vehicles and receive a clear navigation route on their phones.

At Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, all three terminals are participating in Spring Festival operations. The airport anticipates 65,700 flights and expects to handle 10.51 million passengers during the period. The newly opened T3 terminal has implemented a full self-service system covering check in, baggage dropping, and security screening. Sixty self-service kiosks now support multiple forms of identification, including ID cards, passports, and travel permits for Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan.

Across highway service areas, free hot water, basic medicines, and route consultation services are being offered to travelers. Volunteers in red vests are stationed at busy points to help maintain order and improve service efficiency.