Fliggy, an online travel platform under Alibaba Group, has released its 2026 Qingming Festival Travel Trends, highlighting a significant boost in both domestic and international travel. The data reveals a 40% year-on-year increase in domestic hotel bookings and a 70% rise in scenic spot ticket reservations, reflecting a strong demand for spring travel.
The platform noted a 72% year-on-year jump in the transaction value for vacation products in March 2026. Searches for "flower viewing" and "spring outing" have surged by 380% month-on-month, as travellers seek outdoor experiences. Major cities like Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou are popular, whilst niche scenic spots such as Wenchang and Lingshui in Hainan have seen over 100% booking growth.
Internationally, experience-led travel is trending, with a 120% year-on-year increase in the transaction value for leisure activities abroad, including boat excursions and hiking. Short-haul destinations within a four-hour flight from China, such as South Korea and Thailand, remain popular. Additionally, "healing" destinations like Kazakhstan and Sri Lanka are gaining traction for their restorative appeal.
Fliggy's insights suggest a robust travel season, with both domestic and outbound travel showing strong growth. The trends indicate a shift towards experience and relaxation-focused travel, setting the stage for a vibrant spring travel period
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