china peak tourism season

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When is the peak tourist season in China?

Travel Destinations

June 19, 2023

By Kristy Tolley

Introduction to China’s Tourism Industry

China is one of the world’s top tourist destinations, known for its rich cultural heritage, dynamic cities, and breathtaking natural landscapes. The country’s tourism industry has witnessed rapid growth over the past decade, with millions of travelers visiting the country every year. The Chinese government has made efforts to boost the tourism sector by investing in infrastructure, improving visa policies, and promoting sustainable tourism practices.

Understanding China’s Tourist Season

China’s tourist season is influenced by several factors such as regional weather patterns, cultural events, and national holidays. The tourist season varies from region to region, with some destinations being more popular during certain times of the year. It is essential to understand the tourist season in China to plan your trip effectively and avoid the crowds.

The Best Time to Visit China

The best time to visit China depends on the region you plan to travel to and your personal preferences. Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are generally considered the best times to visit China as the weather is mild and pleasant. The summer months (June to August) can be hot and humid, while the winter months (December to February) can be cold and snowy.

Peak Tourist Season in China

The peak tourist season in China is during the national holidays, which are known as the "Golden Week" holidays. The Golden Week holidays occur twice a year, in May and October, and last for one week each. During this time, popular tourist destinations are overcrowded, and prices for flights, accommodation, and attractions tend to be higher.

Exploring China’s Tourist Hotspots

China has several tourist hotspots that attract millions of visitors each year. These include the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, the Terracotta Warriors, and the Yangtze River. These destinations can be crowded during peak tourist season, but they are must-sees for first-time visitors to China.

The Impact of Peak Tourist Season

Peak tourist season has a significant impact on China’s tourism industry. The influx of tourists brings economic benefits to the country, but it also puts a strain on resources, including infrastructure and natural attractions. Local communities may also be negatively impacted by the crowds and increased noise pollution.

Challenges of Peak Tourist Season

The challenges of peak tourist season in China include long queues at popular attractions, higher prices for flights and accommodation, and a lack of availability for bookings. It can also be difficult to navigate crowded streets and public transportation, making it challenging to explore the city’s attractions.

Tips for Traveling During Peak Season

To make the most of your trip during peak tourist season, it is advisable to book your flights and accommodation well in advance. You can also avoid the crowds by visiting popular tourist attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon. It is also essential to plan your itinerary and be flexible in case of unexpected changes.

Off-Peak Travel in China

Off-peak travel in China is an excellent option for travelers who want to avoid the crowds and save money on flights and accommodation. Off-peak travel is during the winter months (December to February) and the summer months (June to August) in some regions. You can also visit less popular destinations or explore the countryside to experience a more authentic side of China.

Benefits of Off-Peak Travel

The benefits of off-peak travel in China include lower prices for flights and accommodation, fewer crowds at popular tourist attractions, and a more relaxed and authentic travel experience. You can also take advantage of seasonal activities such as skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer.

Conclusion: Plan Your Trip Wisely

China is a fascinating country to visit, with many tourist attractions and experiences to explore. However, it is essential to plan your trip wisely, taking into account the tourist season and your preferences. Whether you choose to travel during peak or off-peak season, make sure to research your destination and plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your trip.

Resources for Planning Your Trip

There are several resources available for travelers planning a trip to China, including travel guides, online forums, and travel agencies. The Chinese government also provides information on visa requirements, tourism policies, and travel safety. It is advisable to do your research and consult with local experts to plan a safe and enjoyable trip to China.

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Kristy Tolley

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The best time of year to visit China

Apr 14, 2021 • 4 min read

The best time to see the terraced rice fields in Yuanyang is January © Weeraporn Puttiwongrak/Shutterstock

China is a huge country and the best time to go can depend on the region you’d like to visit and what kind of holiday you’re looking for. However, if you’re just beginning to plan your trip and don’t know where to start, here are our tips on figuring out when you should go to China.

Editor's note: during COVID-19 there may be additional travel restrictions. Check the latest guidance in China before planning a trip, and always follow local government health advice.

The most useful tip is to avoid travelling during the three main national holidays (Labor Day in May, National Day in October and Chinese New Year). If you must, book well ahead of time and prepare for crowds.

High Season (May–August)

In peak summer, temperatures can get unbearably hot in the southern part of the country and it’s also the wet season so downpours aren’t uncommon. Expect big crowds at traveller hotspots, especially in July and August when Chinese school children are on their summer break. Accommodation prices peak during the first week of May holiday period; this time is best avoided for travel.

Shoulder Season (mid-February–April, September & October)

For many savvy travelers, this is the perfect time to go to China. Weather-wise, you have a more temperate climate. In the north in particular, this is the optimal season with fresh weather and clear skies. Accommodation prices can peak during the early-October holidays, another time you should try and avoid.

Low Season (November–mid-February)

The winter weather is bitterly cold in the north and at altitude. If you’re looking for warmth, you’ll have to travel to the far south. Domestic tourism is at a low ebb, but things are busy and expensive for Chinese New Year.

North China is in a deep freeze but the south is less bitter; preparations for the Lunar New Year get underway well in advance of the festival, which arrives any time between late January and March. The Lunar New Year is family-focused, with dining on dumplings and gift-giving of hóngbāo (red envelopes stuffed with money). Most families feast together on New Year’s Eve, then China goes on a big week-long holiday. Key events: Spring Festival, Harbin Ice & Snow Festival

North China remains shockingly icy and dry, but things are slowly warming up in Hong Kong and Macau . The Lunar New Year could well be underway, but sort out any tickets well in advance. Key events: Monlam Great Prayer Festival, Lantern Festival

China comes to life after a long winter, though it remains glacial at high altitudes. The mercury climbs in Hong Kong and abrasive dust storms billow into Beijing , scouring everything in their path. It's still low season but if you delve into south Chinese countryside, prepare to be bowled over by a landscape saturated in bright-yellow rapeseed. Key events : Beijing International Literary Festival

Most of China is warm and it’s a good time to be on the road. The Chinese take several days off for the Qingming festival, a traditional date for honoring their ancestors and now an official holiday. Key events: Dai New Year, Luoyang Peony Festival, Third Moon Fair, Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix

Mountain regions, such as Sichuan’s Jiuzhaigou National Park , are in full bloom. For the first four days of May, China is on holiday (Labour Day). Buddha's Birthday falls on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, usually in May. Key events: Buddha's Birthday in Xiahe, Circling the Mountain Festival, Great Wall Marathon

Most of China is hot and getting hotter. Once-frozen areas, such as Jilin’s Heaven Lake, are accessible – and nature springs instantly to life. The great China peak tourist season is cranking up. Key events: Festival of Aurora Borealis, Dragon Boat Festival, Dhama Festival, Shangri-la Horse Racing Festival, Tagong Horse Festival

Typhoons can wreak havoc with travel itineraries down south, lashing the Guangdong and Fujian coastlines. Plenty of rain sweeps across China: the ‘plum rains’ give Shanghai a big soaking, and the grasslands of Inner Mongolia and Qinghai turn green. Key events: Dali’s Torch Festival, Naadam, Dalian International Beer Festival

The temperature gauge of Yangzi's ‘three ovens’ – Chongqing , Wuhan and Nanjing – gets set to blow. Rainstorms hit Beijing, which is at peak heat, as is sweating Shanghai. So head uphill to Lushan, Moganshan, Huangshan or Guoliangcun. Key events: Litang Horse Festival, Qingdao International Beer Festival

Come to Beijing and stay put – September is part of the fleetingly-lovely tiāngāo qìshuǎng (‘the sky is high and the air is fresh’) autumnal season, which is an event in itself. It's also a pleasant time to visit the rest of north China. Key events: Tai Shan International Climbing Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, Confucius’ Birthday

The first week of October can be hellish if you’re on the road: the National Day week-long holiday kicks off, so everywhere is swamped. Go mid-month instead, when everywhere is deserted. Key events: Miao New Year, Kurban Bairam (Gǔěrbāng Jié)

Most of China is getting pretty cold as tourist numbers drop and holidaymakers begin to flock south for sun and the last pockets of warmth. The peak surfing season kicks off in Ri Yue Bay (Sun and Moon Bay) in Hainan .

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Travel China Cheaper

Travel China the smart way! Expert tips and travel advice for China tourists and expats.

PLANNING A TRIP TO CHINA? Start Here

Best Times To Visit China in 2021 (Based on Months & Seasons)

October 21, 2020 By Josh Summers 17 Comments

When is the best time to travel to China? I’ve been asked this question multiple times and over the years I’ve finally developed an answer that I feel comfortable giving you here.

The fact is that China is a big country and anybody who gives you a “one size fits all” answer probably doesn’t understand that.

No matter what season of the year it may be, there is always a place in China that is worth visiting. I’ve traveled in the dead of winter and in the heat of the summer – both experiences have had their ups and downs.

For this reason, I’m going to share with you my answer based on the season / month you plan to visit China, along with my recommended places to visit during that time.

Table of Contents

• Spring (April to June)
• Summer (July to August)
• Fall (September to October)
• Winter (November to March)

When NOT to Travel to China

Additional china travel resources.

We’ll start be detailing exactly when you should not travel to China.

If there is any way to avoid it, there is a specific time during which you should avoid stepping foot in China:

Chinese Spring Festival (aka Chinese New Year).

If you’re doing your research, then you’ll probably read other travel websites telling you to avoid all China holidays but this isn’t true . I’ve traveled plenty of times during the National Holiday and Labor Day, and it’s been great.

The holiday has been cut short so much that now most Chinese citizens have decided its not worth traveling during those holidays anymore.

The one exception is the Chinese New Year (aka “Spring Festival”) which usually falls in late January or into February. Not only is each mode of transportation packed full and often sold out of tickets, most shops, grocery stores and even some tourist attractions are closed for a few days during this holiday.

Because it’s based on the lunar calendar, you’ll need to check the 2020 China public holiday calendar to find out which day Spring Festival lands on.

Visiting China in Spring (April to June)

There aren’t too many places in China that you can’t visit in between the months of April and June. The only exception might be the far northern parts of Heilongjiang and Xinjiang , which can still be somewhat cold during the month of April.

Throughout the south of China the wet season has begun during these months, which may be a bit of a hassle. At the same time, it could enhance your trip with early morning mist which can be spectacular in places like Guilin and Yunnan.

The weather will be quite dry in places like Beijing, Shanghai and Xi’an, so this is a great time to visit those places before it gets hot and humid in the summer.

Overall, the spring season is one of the most popular times to visit China , in part because you can go pretty much anywhere and find good weather, but also because you’ll get to see the beauty of spring throughout the country.

Visiting China in Summer (July to August)

July and August is the peak travel season here in China , mostly because everybody is off from school all over the world. It’s not always the best time to visit, however.

Places like Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu and Xi’an are all crazy hot, unbelievably humid and often just plain uncomfortable.

That’s not to say that you can’t visit, just be prepared with plenty of water and make sure to book your China hotels in advance since many of the desirable budget hotels and hostels book up quickly during the summer months.

Summer is an excellent time to find your way out to Tibet, where temperatures are a bit more mild with the high altitude.

You could also consider traveling down to Hainan, sometimes referred to as the “Hawaii of China” with some stunningly beautiful China beaches , where you can at least jump into the ocean when it gets too hot.

Keep in mind that even during the peak travel season, there are ways to avoid the crowds in China . Also, it’s worth noting that most hotels and many businesses in China now have air conditioning.

Visit China in Fall (September to October)

Like the April and May months, the fall season (September and October) is another excellent time to visit China.

Places like Xinjiang, which are normally blazing hot in the summer and still a bit too cold in spring, are in perfect season.

The same goes for Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong and all of the other major tourist cities. What I suggest, however, is that you try to make your way inland during these months.

China Travel Tip

If traveling during China’s fall season, take some warmer clothes for the evening, just in case temperatures dip down low.

Frankly, there isn’t really a bad place to visit during these months, which is why September and October are such popular travel months among the Chinese and the knowledgeable expats here in China.

Keep in mind that during the October holiday (usually starting October 1st and lasting for a few days), you might run into heavier crowds of Chinese tourists, but overall it’s not that bad.

The beautiful fall colors often make up for any inconvenience you might come across.

Visiting China in Winter (November to March)

Finally, we’re left with the winter months in China (mid-November to early March).

Most people try to avoid traveling to China during the winter but the fact is that there are some great places to visit during this time. Most of these places are in the south, including Hong Kong, Macau, Hainan, Yunnan and others.

Of course, if you’re really brave, China is gorgeous under a blanket of snow.

Walking through Beijing or around Pingyao while it has a few inches of snow can be very memorable. The problem is you never quite know when it’s going to actually snow, so if you’re unlucky you’ll just be stuck walking around with your teeth chattering (trust me, I’ve done this while taking my family on the Great Wall and it was miserable!).

There are also some places in China that have made a name for themselves during the winter months, particularly Harbin, whose ice festival is one that shouldn’t be missed.

Make sure you watch your calendar during the winter months, though. As I mentioned earlier, it’s important that you at least be aware of when the Chinese New Year lands so that you can be prepared or avoid it all together.

Are you traveling to China soon? Check out these additional free resources:

• The Ultimate China Travel Handbook
• Free Downloadable PDF Guides For China travelers
• How To Pack For China (including free packing list!)
• The Best China Travel Guide Books – Rated and Reviewed
• How To Travel China Without Speaking Mandarin Chinese
• How To Get a Chinese Visa | Tourist Guide 2020

Further Reading & Resources

Traveling or Moving to China Soon?

Download "44 Tips You MUST Know Before Traveling to China". These simple but often overlooked tips could make or break your trip !

Download the Tips Here

About Josh Summers

Josh is the founder of TravelChinaCheaper.com who has been living in China with his family since 2006. Over that period of time he has traveled by plane, train, car, motorcycle and even camel to explore almost every corner of the country.

Reader Interactions

April 13, 2018 at 11:40 pm

Quite informative and useful

April 14, 2018 at 2:40 am

I’m glad you found it useful, Rajiva! Thanks for the comment.

June 19, 2018 at 11:53 pm

Very useful info. Thanks ! Plan to travel with friends on a budget early April….any recommendations please????????

March 23, 2020 at 1:17 am

I have one recommendation which may not be so good is that try not to travel to China due to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak since there is still some comfirmed cases in china also. even if you do land in china, you will have to do a 14-day self qurantine and also avoid visiting hubei province would be the best option. Well anyway, which city are you and your friends travelling to which city in china.

August 12, 2018 at 10:27 pm

My husband, my sister, a freind of hers and myself are looking for a cruise to China & Tibet. My Husband is 100% DISABLED vet. We are in our 70’s , my Husband will walk with canes or a walker. He wants to go so bad that he will do whatever he can to see everything. We thOught a cruise would off er him some resPit.

We are not wealthy and are really stretching to take this trip. We will travel first class on long flights.

Any thoughts will be appreciated. Ellen

August 13, 2018 at 1:11 pm

Hi Ellen, the best I can tell you is that you’re going to need to work with a travel agency. And I don’t know what your standard of “budget” is, but it probably won’t be cheap.

September 29, 2018 at 2:54 pm

Hi Josh, my husband and I will visit China in November. Any advise about nice place to see in this time?

Thanks for your answer. Nana

October 1, 2018 at 2:27 pm

Hi Nana, really hard to answer a question like that if I don’t know where you’re going (China is a huge country!). I recommend you start with a good China travel guide book to see what is worth seeing wherever you plan on going.

January 3, 2019 at 3:42 pm

I am so happy to have found your website, josh. I have spent the last couple of hours going through it. so first of all, thank you for all the extremely useful information you provide. your website made my day. we are taking a gap year (our daughter and son, my husband and I) and plan to reach china the first or second week of march, spend some time around chengdu or guangzhou or Hangzhou, and then head to Beijing around the last week of march or/and first week of april. and today a friend warned us about yellow dust in march in beijing. is it very bad? should we aim for rather beginning of april?

January 4, 2019 at 4:17 pm

You should be fine, Martha. If you’re really worried, make sure you get some good pollution masks before you go. That will do the trick 😉

January 28, 2019 at 2:49 am

Hi josh, quick question do you recommend travelling to beijing from April 29 – may 03? We are a family who are currently residing in japan. would like to visit beijing this holiday season but reluctant because of congestion mentioned. (my 2 year old son would not like stay ing unmoved in stagnated traffic) please advice us on this.

January 28, 2019 at 8:37 am

I think it will be fine. May holiday can get a little congested at the major tourist sites, but it’s not like Chinese New Year where everybody and their brother is traveling and a lot of stuff is shut down. It will be great weather, that’s for sure!

July 31, 2019 at 4:44 pm

I’m planning to visit china, maybe between February and March next year, so my questions are: – is this a good moment to travel to china? – do I need a visa transit if my flight will be changed on the Moscow airport? Thanks,

July 31, 2019 at 8:14 pm

Hey Albert, February and March are great times to travel, although it can still be very cold in northern China. As for the transit visa, as long as you have a single flight ticket and are only spending a few hours in Moscow, you shouldn’t need a visa there. Check with your airline to be sure.

September 24, 2019 at 5:57 am

We are both in our 70’s and coming to China: Beijing, Suzhou, Shanghai 20th march 2020. What to wear would be helpful.

Is it safe to walk around these towns after 6pm? How cold will it be? Will we be able to find vegetarian cafes? Do we need special footwear?

September 25, 2019 at 12:38 am

Great questions, Sue. March will still be chilly through parts of China, so I recommend long pants and a jacket at the least. For all your other questions, I highly recommend you check out my China travel handbook that details everything I wish I had known before coming to China. It will answer all your other questions and many more.

March 23, 2020 at 1:21 am

This website about when to travel to china is very useful.

what my opinion about travelling to china is that do not travel to hubei province. the reason for that is that hubei province is the centre of the ongoing coronavirus outbreak.

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What is peak season in China?

Introduction: Peak season in China refers to the time of year when there is a significant increase in travel, shopping, and other economic activities. This period is characterized by high demand for goods and services, leading to crowded tourist attractions, packed transportation systems, and price surges in various industries. Understanding when peak season occurs in China can help businesses and travelers better prepare for the influx of visitors and make informed decisions on when to visit or conduct business in the country.

Presentation: Peak season in China typically occurs during national holidays, major festivals, and school vacations when millions of people travel within the country or abroad. The most notable peak seasons in China include the Chinese New Year holiday, which usually falls in late January or early February, and the Golden Week holidays in May and October. During these peak seasons, popular tourist destinations such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an can become extremely crowded, with long lines at attractions and limited availability of accommodations.

In addition to the holidays, peak season in China also coincides with major shopping events such as Singles’ Day on November 11th and the Mid-Autumn Festival in September. These shopping festivals attract huge numbers of shoppers both online and offline, leading to increased sales and promotions from retailers.

For businesses operating in China, peak season can be a lucrative time to capitalize on increased consumer spending and drive sales. However, it also presents challenges such as higher competition, rising costs, and logistical constraints. It is essential for businesses to plan ahead and strategize on how to best leverage the opportunities presented during peak season.

For travelers, understanding when peak season occurs in China can help them avoid the crowds and higher prices, and make the most of their visit. It is advisable to book accommodations and transportation in advance, plan visits to popular attractions during off-peak hours, and be prepared for longer wait times.

In conclusion, peak season in China is a time of heightened economic activity and increased travel, presenting both opportunities and challenges for businesses and travelers. By being aware of when peak season occurs and planning accordingly, individuals can make the most of their experiences in China and maximize their success during this busy time of year.

When is the Best Time to Visit China? A Month-by-Month Guide for Travelers

Peak season in China varies depending on the region you plan to visit. In general, the peak season for tourism in China is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and pleasant. During these months, attractions are less crowded compared to the summer months.

However, if you are planning to visit popular tourist destinations such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an , the peak season is from April to October . This is when the weather is warm and most attractions are open for visitors.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds and high prices, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons in March, November, and early December . During these months, you can still enjoy pleasant weather while avoiding the peak tourist crowds.

Keep in mind that Chinese New Year (usually in January or February) is a peak travel season in China, as many locals travel to be with their families during this holiday. If you plan to visit during this time, be prepared for crowded transportation and higher prices.

Overall, the best time to visit China depends on your preferences and the regions you plan to visit. Consider the weather, crowds, and local holidays to determine the peak season for your trip.

The Best Time to Visit China on a Budget: Discover the Cheapest Times of Year to Travel

When planning a trip to China, one of the key factors to consider is the peak season. Peak season refers to the time of year when tourist traffic is at its highest, leading to higher prices for accommodations, transportation, and attractions. Understanding the peak season in China can help budget travelers save money and avoid crowded tourist spots.

Peak season in China typically occurs during major holidays such as Chinese New Year, National Day, and the week-long May Day holiday. During these times, millions of Chinese tourists travel domestically, leading to increased demand and higher prices for hotels and flights. Additionally, popular tourist attractions such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Warriors can be overcrowded with long lines.

For budget travelers looking to visit China without breaking the bank, it is advisable to avoid peak season and instead plan your trip during the shoulder seasons. The shoulder seasons in China, which fall between the peak seasons, offer lower prices for accommodations and fewer crowds at tourist sites.

Some of the best times to visit China on a budget include the months of March, April, September, and October. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and tourist attractions are less crowded. By traveling during these off-peak times , budget travelers can save money on accommodations, transportation, and attractions.

In conclusion, understanding the peak season in China is crucial for budget travelers looking to visit the country without overspending. By planning your trip during off-peak times and avoiding the major holidays, you can enjoy a more affordable and less crowded travel experience in China.

Discover China’s Favorite Season and Why It Holds a Special Place in Their Hearts

China’s favorite season is spring , and it holds a special place in their hearts for several reasons. Spring is considered the peak season in China for many travelers due to the pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and various festivals that take place during this time.

One of the main reasons why spring is China’s favorite season is the breathtaking cherry blossom season. The cherry blossoms are in full bloom during spring, creating a stunning display of pink and white flowers across the country. People from all over the world travel to China during this time to witness the beauty of the cherry blossoms.

In addition to the cherry blossoms, spring is also the time when various traditional festivals are celebrated in China. The Qingming Festival and the Dragon Boat Festival are two of the most popular festivals that take place during spring. These festivals are rich in history and culture, allowing visitors to experience the traditions of China firsthand.

Furthermore, spring in China is characterized by mild temperatures and clear skies, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. The vibrant colors of the blooming flowers and the fresh greenery of the trees create a picturesque backdrop for these activities.

Overall, spring is China’s favorite season because of its natural beauty, cultural significance, and favorable weather conditions. It is a time of joy and celebration, making it a special season that holds a special place in the hearts of the Chinese people.

The Beauty of China: Exploring the Most Stunning Season in the Land of the Dragon

China is a country known for its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. One of the best times to visit this beautiful country is during its peak season, when the weather is ideal and the scenery is at its most stunning. The Beauty of China: Exploring the Most Stunning Season in the Land of the Dragon takes you on a journey through some of the most picturesque locations in China during this magical time of year.

During the peak season in China, which typically falls in the spring and autumn months, visitors can expect mild temperatures, clear skies, and blooming flowers. This is the perfect time to explore famous landmarks such as the Great Wall, the Terracotta Army, and the Forbidden City, as well as lesser-known gems like the karst landscapes of Guilin and the ancient town of Lijiang.

One of the highlights of the peak season in China is the opportunity to witness the vibrant colors of the changing leaves in places like the Jiuzhaigou Valley and the Yellow Mountains. The contrast of the red, orange, and yellow foliage against the backdrop of the mountains and lakes is truly a sight to behold.

Whether you are interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, The Beauty of China: Exploring the Most Stunning Season in the Land of the Dragon has something for everyone. From bustling cities to serene countryside, this article showcases the best of what China has to offer during its peak season.

So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the beauty of China in all its glory. This is a journey you won’t soon forget.

In conclusion, peak season in China refers to the times of year when tourist destinations are most crowded and prices are highest. It is important for travelers to plan their trips accordingly and be aware of peak season dates in order to avoid crowds and potential price increases. By understanding what factors contribute to peak season in China, travelers can make informed decisions about when to visit and how to best experience all that this diverse and vibrant country has to offer. Peak season in China is a time of heightened activity, bustling markets, and energetic celebrations. It is when tourists flock to popular destinations, businesses thrive, and the country comes alive with vibrant colors and sounds. From the lively streets of Beijing to the tranquil waters of the Li River, peak season in China is a time to experience the rich culture and dynamic energy of this incredible country. So whether you’re exploring ancient temples, sampling street food, or taking in a traditional performance, make sure to visit during peak season to truly immerse yourself in the beauty and excitement of China.

How to Plan Your First Trip to China 2024/2025 — 7 Easy Steps

From December 1st, 2023 to November 30th, 2024, visitors from France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Singapore, and Malaysia can stay in China for up to 15 days without a visa for travel, business, transit, or visiting friends and family.

Starting March 14th, travelers from Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, and Switzerland can also enjoy this visa-free entry.

China, with its long history and rich geography, may be on your bucket list. It is also the top place to explore Far-Eastern elements and culture.

Below are seven easy steps for planning a first China tour using our first-hand knowledge, being based in China, and our experience creating over 100,000 custom-made China tours, the majority of which were for families and couples.

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1. choose where to go, 2. decide how many days to stay, 3. consider when to travel to china, 4. consider your budget.

• 5. Take a Private Tour

6. Check Out Visa Policy

7. getting to/around china.

With our knowledge of China and feedback from our customers, we suggest you visit Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai for your first trip, extending it to Guilin and/or Chengdu if you have the time.

1) Beijing — Explore China's Imperial Past

As an imperial and modern capital of China, Beijing is a must-see, because it is home to many of the finest icons of China's medieval and recent past. It is also China's top gateway city .

The Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City are both must-see attractions, especially if you are interested in China's architectural marvels and dynastic history.

For a special experience and some private time, we can arrange a less-crowded sunset visit to the Great Wall with a romantic picnic for you.

If you are interested in Beijing's local lifestyle, a locally-guided walk through Beijing's hutongs with your children or husband/wife is highly recommended.

If you want to try some new things with kids, we recommend a family morning tai chi session , a local home visit, trying Chinese calligraphy, and playing with a Chinese yo-yo.

2) Shanghai — Explore Its Unique Blend of Old and New

If you want an intuitive sense of how China's recent past and present meet and collide, Shanghai is the place to go.

Hop on a ferry to cross the Huangpu River . You will see the historical architecture on the Bund as well as the modern skyscrapers opposite, giving you a distinctive contrast between modern life and the post-imperial past.

We have specially designed an in-depth Bund culture discovery walking tour for those who want to learn more interesting stories about the Bund and old Shanghai. See our 2-Day Shanghai Essence Tour itinerary.

If your schedule allows, extend your tour to Hangzhou or Suzhou to see water towns and classical Chinese gardens.

3) Xi'an — Discover China's Ancient Civilization

Xi'an is an excellent and interesting place to discover where the nation of China really began. China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, established the first capital of a united China there.

The Terracotta Warriors are definitely a must-see. We offer a more interesting and in-depth experience to learn more about the Terracotta Warriors: make a mini clay warrior with local artisans and visit their disappearing cave dwellings.

For couples and families, a hanfu costume experience in an ancient academy could be a highlight. A bike ride on the 600-year-old city wall is also great to do with kids.

All our tours can be adjusted based on your needs. Just contact us .

4) Guilin — A Relaxing Escape with Picturesque Scenery and Minority Culture

First-timers love Guilin for its beautiful landscapes and relaxing places to escape from the cities — it is a true masterpiece of classic rural China .

A Li River cruise is the best way to enjoy karst peaks combined sublimely with the Li River .

Yangshuo and Longsheng, two counties next to the city of Guilin, offer most of Guilin's top highlights.

Yangshuo is a place where children can put down their phones and iPads and still be well entertained… by cycling around the idyllic countryside and even experiencing the life and work of a Chinese farmer.

Yangshuo also offers a natural romantic atmosphere for couples. A romantic riverside candlelit dinner set in a mountain retreat garden could be a great way to celebrate your 20th, 30th, 40th, etc. anniversary. Contact us to design a special time for you.

If you are interested in minority culture , the Longji Rice Terraces in Longsheng are really a highlight — both for enjoying the magnificent tiered fields and for experiencing the world of the Zhuang and Yao minorities.

• 5-Day Dynamic Guilin and Yangshuo Tour — Best for Summer Vacations
• 11-Day Family Happiness — Beijing–Xi'an–Guilin/Yangshuo–Shanghai

5) Chengdu — Have a Close Encounter with Pandas

Chengdu's giant pandas are for many the icing on the cake, the finishing touch to a China must-do list.

An even more special experience would be to have a close encounter with pandas by taking part in our giant panda volunteer program — cleaning the glass of their enclosures, making panda food, watching a panda eat it, and more.

Chengdu is also famous for delicious Sichuan food like kung pao chicken and spicy hotpot. A food hunting tour is the best way to taste the delicious specialties of Chengdu.

If you are interested in cooking, you can try cooking the most authentic Sichuan cuisine with a local chef.

After a long journey to get to China, you probably won't want to just scratch the surface of China and just take snapshots with the landmark attractions.

We suggest you take at least a week for your first trip to see a spectrum of the highlights in the top three cities: Beijing (3–4 days), Xi'an (2 days), and Shanghai (1–2 days). See our 8-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Shanghai Tour for inspiration.

To discover more of China, like charming Guilin and lovely Chengdu pandas, you would need a few more days. See our 11-Day Classic Wonders tour of Beijing, Xi'an, Guilin/Yangshuo, and Shanghai. See How Long to Spend in China: Itineraries from 1 Week to 1 Month

Tibet is also open again for international visitors now [March 2023]. If you want to visit this pure land, you may need 3 to 5 more days. See our 2-Week Private Tour of Beijing, Xi'an, Lhasa, and Shanghai .

All our tours can be adjusted based on your interests, travel time, group size, and other needs. Just contact us .

Or get ideas from our:

• How to Spend 10 Days in China (5 Best Options & Costs)
• 2 Weeks in China: 3 Top Itinerary Ideas for Couples and Families
• How to Spend 3 Weeks in China (Best 3 Options & Costs)

China's cultural and historical attractions are good for a visit all year round. Things to do in Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai are seldom affected by the seasons.

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are generally the most comfortable and recommended times for a China tour. They are neither too hot nor too cold, but fall is generally drier and warmer than spring.

A more ideal travel time for you could be March and early April or September when there are smaller crowds, favorable prices, and still good weather.

China is a good summer holiday destination too. There are not many rainy days in summer. It rarely rains continuously for a whole day, with rain coming in less and less frequent downpours as the summer draws on.

It can get a little hot in summer, but air conditioning and expert arrangements would help you avoid the heat as much as possible.

You can find more detailed tips on Best Times to Travel to China .

Traveling in China is not very expensive. The biggest cost could be international airfares. The cost of airfares from the US or Europe to China varies a lot depending on when you fly and which airline you use, from around US$1,200 to US$3,000 for an economy round trip.

The peak tourist times in China fall on the first weeks of May and October (China's two golden weeks), the summer holidays, and the Christmas and New Year holidays.

The biggest price difference between the off and peak seasons is in the price of hotels and airfares. Prices in peak season can go up by 50 to 100%.

For a private tour, the average cost per day is about US$220–350 per person, including flights/trains within China, 4- or 5-star hotels, lunches, attractions, guides, and private transport.

If you travel in the peak season, book at least 2 or 3 months in advance. When booking with us, you'll receive a 100% refund of any payments made to China Highlights if you cancel up to three weeks before departure ( more details here⇒ ).

5. We Believe Private and Tailor-Made Is Best

A private tour is recommended for your first trip to China.

If you don't want to visit the Great Wall of China with a coach-load of 40 people and perhaps only have 20 minutes on the wall and so on, a private and tailor-made tour is definitely the better choice.

With our private tours, you would have much more personal choice in how your tour goes. You could have more hand-picked and interactive experiences, like walking on the "wild" untouched Great Wall or visiting a local family with your own local guide.

With private guiding and transport, we would maximize your time. You could focus on the sightseeing you want to do, skipping what's not of interest and the long queues in the most crowded attractions.

Just contact us if you would like a tailor-made private trip to China. We also offer economical, but still high-class and uncrowded, small group tours.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Visitors from most countries need to apply for a tourist visa (L visa) to visit China. We recommended that you apply for the visa one or two months before the intended travel date.

When booking with us, we would provide the invitation letter that you would need for a tourist visa application.

If you do not have a Chinese visa, you could use the 144-hour visa-free-transit policy to visit China.

From December 1st, 2023 to November 30th, 2024, travelers from France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia can enjoy a 15-day visa-free entry to China for tourism, business, and visiting friends and relatives in China.

Whether you want to visit China via visa or visa-free, we can help you plan a trip including entry formalities. Feel free to contact us .

Flights from all countries to China have resumed, though maybe not yet at pre-pandemic frequency. At present, there are one or two direct flights a week from New York to Shanghai, Los Angeles to Beijing, Seattle to Shanghai, London to Guangzhou, etc.

There are also many flight options with stopovers that are more frequent and affordable.

Beijing and Shanghai are the top gateway cities for international flights. Most customers chose them.

Flights and high-speed trains are the best and fastest ways to travel intercity in most of China. Booking a private tour with us, we will arrange your transportation within China and provide worry-free and comfortable private transfers.

Popular China Tours for 2024/2025

Our private tours are designed to be the most convenient and fulfilling option for your trip to China. We would create an itinerary according to your flight times, interests, and any other requirements.

Just contact us and we'll create your ideal China trip . Our consultants will listen to and answer your inquiries carefully and promptly and prepare the best tour plan for you.

Here are some popular options that you could base your trip on:

• 8-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Shanghai Highlights Tour — the classic Golden Triangle trip
• 11-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Guilin–Shanghai — our top itinerary for families
• 2-Week Beijing – Xi'an – Chengdu – Yangtze Cruise – Shanghai Tour — the choice for panda fans and cruise fans

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• China Visa-Free Itineraries to Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou... 
• Top 10 Unique Experiences in China You Won't Miss
• 13-Day A Broad Taste of China
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• Best China Tours 2024/2025: Top Tours for First & Return Trips
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• 15 Best Places to Visit in China (2024)
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• China Weather in January 2024: Enjoy Less-Crowded Traveling
• China Weather in February 2024: Places to Go, Costs, and Crowds
• China Weather in March 2024: Destinations, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in April 2024: Where to Go (Smart Pre-Season Pick)
• China Weather in May 2024: Where to Go, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in June 2024: How to Benefit from the Rainy Season
• China Weather in July 2024: How to Avoid Heat and Crowds
• China Weather in August 2024: Weather Tips & Where to Go
• China Weather in September 2024: Weather Tips & Where to Go
• China Weather in October 2024: Where to Go, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in November 2024: Places to Go & Crowds
• China Weather in December 2024: Places to Go and Crowds

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Shanghai   Travel Guide

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Best Times To Visit Shanghai

The best time to visit Shanghai is from October to November. This short autumn season boasts comfortable temperatures and lacks the crowds and rain showers of summer – the peak tourism season. Winter travelers can encounter chilly weather, making urban exploration less enjoyable. The rising temps of spring offer a short sweet spot for travel, as long as you avoid the public holidays. Note that Shanghai is a business-centric city, so hotel rates usually drop over the weekends. 

Weather in Shanghai

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Shanghai

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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A passenger poses for photos in front of flower decorations at Kunming Changshui International Airport in Kunming, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Sept. 27, 2023. The Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday period, which will last from Sept. 29 to Oct. 6 this year, is a peak travel and tourism season in China. (Xinhua/Cui Wen)

Passengers wait to board trains at Zhengzhou East Railway Station in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province, Sept. 28, 2023. The Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday period, which will last from Sept. 29 to Oct. 6 this year, is a peak travel and tourism season in China. (Xinhua/Li Jianan)

Passengers go through ticket gates at Shenzhen North Railway Station in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, Sept. 28, 2023. The Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday period, which will last from Sept. 29 to Oct. 6 this year, is a peak travel and tourism season in China. (Xinhua/Mao Siqian)

Passengers wait to board trains at Hankou Railway Station in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, Sept. 28, 2023. The Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday period, which will last from Sept. 29 to Oct. 6 this year, is a peak travel and tourism season in China. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun)

A staff member helps a visually impaired passenger at Changchun Railway Station in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province, Sept. 28, 2023. The Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday period, which will last from Sept. 29 to Oct. 6 this year, is a peak travel and tourism season in China. (Xinhua/Zhang Nan)

Passengers wait to board trains at Changchun Railway Station in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province, Sept. 28, 2023. The Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday period, which will last from Sept. 29 to Oct. 6 this year, is a peak travel and tourism season in China. (Xinhua/Zhang Nan)

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Off-peak tourism season starts in China

After the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday, a new round of off-peak tourism season starts in China, ThePaper reported on Friday.

Domestic travel orders in the two months after the holidays have doubled year-on-year, according to data disclosed by Ctrip on Oct 12.

Air ticket prices decrease sharply after the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday, according to Ctrip data.

As of Oct 11, the average price of domestic air tickets including tax was 702 yuan ($96.11) after the National Day till the end of October, down 46 percent from the average price of domestic air tickets during the National Day period of 1,028 yuan.

Meanwhile, the prices for group tourism have also dropped 30 to 50 percent.

After the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday, the experience at major destination scenic spots is better.

"We have launched a lot of off-peak travel products. Some silver-haired people with time or white-collar people with annual leave can choose to travel at the time for more cost-effective and better overall travel experiences," said an anonymous leader from Tongcheng Tourism.

The age groups of travelers are mainly from the post-1990 generation, post-1980 generation and post-2000 generation, accounting for 36, 29 and 15 percent, respectively.

From the perspective of bookings of tourism and holiday products, long-distance travel orders accounted for 46 percent.

Beijing, Shanghai, Shenyang, Xi'an, Wuhan, Chengdu, Sanya, Jinan, Suzhou and Chongqing are the top 10 most popular destinations for off-peak travel season.

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Traveling to Different China Destinations in Different Seasons in 2024/2025

When planning a trip to China, choosing the right destinations will ensure you a better travel experience in a way. So, what’s the best time for a China tour? What are the weather like in China during spring, summer, autumn and winter? What are the best places to enjoy seasonality in China? Well, the answer varies for different travelers. Most regions in China own distinct four seasons: warm spring, hot summer, cool autumn and cold winter . Though each season presents different scenery, generally, months from April to October are the peak seasons for most parts of China while summer and winter are less choices. So, it’s very important to select a suitable time to catch the most beautiful scenery and the best travel experience. For example, Tibet are more recommended for a visit between summer and autumn, for spring is quite windy, dry and winter is freezing cold with heavy snows.

Please rest at ease, China Discovery here list the most recommended destinations in China in different seasons to help you get the best seasonal landscape and trip experience in China. Both climate characters and highlighting views have been fully considered. Check your schedule first and then find your ideal destinations from below!

Beijing/Xian/Shanghai/Chengdu/Hong Kong - Classic Destinations Suitable for A Travel in All Seasons

On the vast territory of China, there are some cities you can visit all year round. Big modern metropolis cities, such as Beijing , Xian , Shanghai , Hong Kong and Chengdu are the hottest representatives. Because their best highlights are mostly cultural landscape less affected by weather, and the cities all have developed tourism reception capacity and convenient transportation networks. Hence, you can travel to the above destinations at any time you want. If you travel with us, you can enjoy an all -inclusive tour packages covering useful trip planning guide, well-organized itinerary, local friendly tour guide and efficient private transfer and excellent arrangements of hotels, meals and other local activities. Contact us to get your China vacation started!

Top China Tour Packages:

• ☛ 8 Days Beijing Xian Shanghai Best of China Tour
• ☛ 10 Days China Family Tour with Panda Reserve Visit
• ☛ 6 Days Classic Beijing Xian High Speed Train Tour
• ☛ 6 Days Beijing Shanghai Tour by High Speed Train

Four Periods You Need to Pay Attention When Traveling to China

As the most populous country in the world, China faces super huge crowds far beyond your expectation during the following four long public holidays. Better avoid these times, or plan your trip under our help as early as possible if necessary since the hotel rates are much higher, all spots are full of people.

● Labor Day is the most important minor vacation in the first half year for Chinese people. It usually starts from May 1 and lasts 3-5 days. Short-distance travel and side trips are most popular at this time. The average tourist flow amounts to over 100 million each year.

● Summer holiday , specifically from July to August, is China’s summer carnival when the main forces, family and students travelers takes up one fifth of the yearly total traffic.

● National Day holiday from October 1 is the famous Golden Week for tourism in China. Nearly all attractions in China are crowded with tourists. If traveling in China during this period, you will face very high travel cost, shortage of good hotels and flight/train tickets, head-scratching traffic jams on highways, etc.

● Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) is the most important traditional festival in China. For the year-end family reunion, Chunyun - the Spring Festival Travel Season in China has become the greatest migration in human history, with an striking traffic record of over 3 billions. Public transport like trains, bus are packed full, and many shops, grocery stores, restaurant will closed during this holiday.

Top Destinations to Visit in China in Spring - March, April, May

Spring is a lovely season with warm sunshine, eye-pleasing flower blossoms, refreshing green leaves and sweet air. All things wake up in this season, including your desire for a delightful spring holiday. Major top destinations and cities in southern China are the most popular places for a spring vacation , for you can enjoy a pleasant weather as well as appreciate colorful flora beauty in ancient gardens, villages and vast fields. Many enjoyable festivals are also held so that you can join to experience seasonal charm and ethnic culture. Better dress warm in early March and wear layered clothes since there is temperature variation.

Recommended China Spring Tours: ☛ 5 Days Shanghai Hangzhou Suzhou Highlights Tour | ☛ 6 Days Best of Yunnan Tour

Top Destinations to Visit in China in Summer – June, July, August

Summer is hot in most destinations in China with the highest daytime temperature usually keeps above 30°C. But some destinations in the north, northwest and southeast China, and high mountains and grassland have lower temperatures, clearly blue sky and wondrous natural sights, thus rightly get their best tourist season. Zhangjiajie, Mount Emei, Inner Mongolia, Qinghai, Guizhou rank the top on the summer resort list . If possible, avoid the “Four Furnaces” - Wuhan, Chongqing, Nanchang and Nanjing and daytime outdoor activities. Dress breathable clothing, pay attention to weather forecast and prepare umbrellas, etc.

Recommended China Summer Tours: ☛ 6 Days Hexi Corridor Discovery Tour | ☛ 5 Days Zhangjiajie & Fenghuang Ancient Town Tour

Top Destinations to Visit in China in Autumn – September, October, November

Autumn is a harvest season and a really golden season for travelling around China. In autumn, the temperature is moderately cool, air is crisp with high visibility, more sunny days, less rainfalls. The multicoloured nature, especially the golden scenery of Jiuzhaigou, Daocheng Yading, Shangri-La, Kanas (Xinjiang), Huangshan Mountain are the most tempting photography sites for travelers ( Top Autumn Destintions ). Most destinations in China are in their beautiful time with different colors. All that makes autumn a peak tourist season. Plan a trip early under the help of a reliable travel agency like China Discovery.

Recommended China Autumn Tours: ☛ 5 Days Yellow Mountain Autumn Tour with Shaiqiu | ☛ 5 Days Chengdu Jiuzhaigou Tour

Top Destinations to Visit in China in Winter - December, January, February

Most places of China are really cold, harsh and dry during winter, resulting in a lower desire for traveling. However, it’s a perfect time to witness natural miracles, enjoy various winter sports and unusual ice and snow fun in northern China’s Harbin and high-elevated mountains like Huangshan Mountain. And Southern China offers a variety of warm places to escape the biting coldness, including Yunnan, Sanya. ( Best Winter Destinations ) If you visit China during Chinese New Year, you can join grand cultural celebrations in joyful atmosphere. A lower cost is another advantage. Always keep warm in cold places.

Recommended China Winter Tours: ☛ 5 Days Charming Harbin & China Snow Town Winter Tour | ☛ 6 Days Yunnan Essence Tour

Useful China Weather Guide & Articles

China's weather features a distinct continental monsoon climate, characterized by cold winter and hot summer in general. As the rich China climate, the weather differs from region to region by different Temperature Zones, according to the diverse landforms. Spring and autumn are the two best seasons to explore China natural beauty with comfortable weather.

Travel China with China Discovery

To help you enjoy a worry-free trip to China, we highly recommend you travel with us China Discovery. Our experienced travel expert will help you arrange your trip sincerely. Our local drivers will escort you to the attractions with comfortable car directly with speed and safety. Our English-speaking tour guide will accompany you all the way, show you the best highlights. Whether you have planned places to go or have no idea, your China tour can be tailor-made according to your group size, time, physical condition, plan, interest, budget, etc. Please feel free to contact us if you need any help!

What Our Customers Say

We wanted to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for the great experience we had aboard Century Oasis. As a family, we’ve traveled to many places around the world but this trip truly stands out as one of the most memorable.

Thank you Wonder from yangtze-river-cruises.com for helping us to arrange the cruise. Your attention to detail and excellent customer service made the booking process smooth and stress-free. We couldn't have asked for a better experience, and we're already looking forward to our next adventure with your company.

Also thanks to our amazing cruise manager Allan Chen and all the cruise crew members on Century Oasis from Chongqing to Yichang. From the moment we stepped on board until our final farewell, Their attention to detail and dedication to ensuring a fantastic experience for all passengers was evident.

The ship's cleanliness, quiet ambiance, and outstanding service truly made our time on board feel like a dreamy escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It was a haven where we could relax, unwind, and immerse ourselves in the spectacular scenery of the Yangtze River.

Thank you once more for all your unwavering assistance, warmth, and for continually watching out for us. Can't wait to cruise again with someone as awesome as you leading the way!

Start planning your tailor-made holiday to China by contacting one of our specialists. Once inquired, you’ll get a response within 0.5~23.5 hours.

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The china peak landing and boat house is set to open friday, may 24 for memorial weekend., operating days for the landing and boat house are as follows:, friday - sunday  starting may 31 - june 9., thursday - monday starting june 13., open daily starting june 27 through labor day weekend., our mountain bike park opens saturday, july 6, weekends through september 8., back by popular demand, friday night live dinner and live music starts friday, july 5., purchase your cali pass now, click below.

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Tourism sector seeks to rebound after lost peak season

By CHENG SI | CHINA DAILY | Updated: 2021-08-24 09:53

The tourism industry is trying to protect its hard-earned recovery after a new wave of COVID-19 hit the sector's business during the summer travel season, traditionally a period of peak demand.

Since the latest wave of the epidemic started in Nanjing, Jiangsu province, and Zhangjiajie, Hunan province, last month, travel restrictions for group tours have been phased in by local governments.

Yu Xiaofeng, the operator of a homestay near Beijing Daxing International Airport, said his business has fallen due to tightened policies on homestay management and epidemic prevention.

"The 13 suites we run had always been fully booked because we are located near the airport, but the occupancy rate fell to around 60 and 70 percent after the new wave of the epidemic," he said.

"Now business is suspended, and I'm not sure if the homestay can reopen or not."

Yu said he is confident about the efficacy of epidemic control measures, and hopes the government will help homestay businesses resume operation eventually.

"The epidemic may bring a financial loss for one or two months, but it's not a very big problem if we can continue the business when the new wave of infection finishes," he said. "I do believe in the government's capacity to control the epidemic, and I hope that we operators can jointly find some solutions with the government to minimize losses rather than just closing down businesses."

Wang Xiaoqian, marketing director for Xband's family-focused homestay business, said the epidemic dealt a hard blow to the company's business over the summer.

"Our family-focused homestays have been in short supply during previous summers, but many parents canceled their reservations," she said.

Wei Changren, general manager of Ctcnn.com, a consultancy for online tourism, said the rough time for tourism companies will last at least through August as children and their parents are being encouraged not to travel, and the new school semester is due to start early next month.

"The National Day holiday in October may partly cover the summer loss," he said, but added that the tightening of control measures for the upcoming Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics is another challenge to the recovery of winter tourism for northern provinces.

Despite lingering uncertainties, tourism companies are still seeking ways out of the predicament and governments at all levels are helping to restore the market.

For example, Xband said it will develop short-distance tours. "We believe that short trips to the outskirts of cities have potential market value," Wang said.

Last week, the Shandong Provincial Culture and Tourism Bureau said that all areas in the province now have low risk of infection and travel agencies have been allowed to resume interprovincial tours and reservation services for air tickets and hotels since Thursday.

Hubei province reopened 18 A-rated tourism attractions on Aug 16 that had been shut due to the new wave of the epidemic, taking the number of attractions operating in the province to 105.

SANYA, China - Since the beginning of winter, the tourism market in Sanya, Hainan province, has been heating up continuously. According to official data, the city witnessed a peak season for tourism since mid-November, which is expected to last until the Spring Festival.

NW China's Zhaosu County enters peak tourism season in summer

Editor: huaxia

2023-07-19 21:22:14

Children have fun in a cole flower field in Zhaosu County, Kazak Autonomous Prefecture of Ili, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, July 17, 2023. With abundant tourism resources, Zhaosu County has entered the peak tourism season in summer. (Xinhua/Zhao Ge)

This aerial photo taken on July 17, 2023 shows horses galloping at a wetland park in Zhaosu County, Kazak Autonomous Prefecture of Ili, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. With abundant tourism resources, Zhaosu County has entered the peak tourism season in summer. (Xinhua/Zhao Ge)

Tourists watch a show performed by herdsmen at a wetland park in Zhaosu County, Kazak Autonomous Prefecture of Ili, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, July 17, 2023. With abundant tourism resources, Zhaosu County has entered the peak tourism season in summer. (Xinhua/Zhao Ge)

A child plays at the gate of a yurt in Zhaosu County, Kazak Autonomous Prefecture of Ili, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, July 18, 2023. With abundant tourism resources, Zhaosu County has entered the peak tourism season in summer. (Xinhua/Wang Fei)

This photo taken on July 19, 2023 shows a view of a cole flower field in Zhaosu County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. With abundant tourism resources, Zhaosu County has entered the peak tourism season in summer. (Xinhua/Hao Zhao)

This aerial photo taken on July 17, 2023 shows tourists watching a show performed by herdsmen at a wetland park in Zhaosu County, Kazak Autonomous Prefecture of Ili, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. With abundant tourism resources, Zhaosu County has entered the peak tourism season in summer. (Xinhua/Hao Zhao)

This aerial photo taken on July 17, 2023 shows horses at a wetland park in Zhaosu County, Kazak Autonomous Prefecture of Ili, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. With abundant tourism resources, Zhaosu County has entered the peak tourism season in summer. (Xinhua/Hao Zhao)

This aerial photo taken on July 17, 2023 shows horses galloping at a wetland park in Zhaosu County, Kazak Autonomous Prefecture of Ili, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. With abundant tourism resources, Zhaosu County has entered the peak tourism season in summer. (Xinhua/Hao Zhao)

Horses are pictured on a grassland in Zhaosu County, Kazak Autonomous Prefecture of Ili, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, July 16, 2023. With abundant tourism resources, Zhaosu County has entered the peak tourism season in summer. (Xinhua/Hao Zhao)

A herdsman herds on a grassland in Zhaosu County, Kazak Autonomous Prefecture of Ili, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, July 16, 2023. With abundant tourism resources, Zhaosu County has entered the peak tourism season in summer. (Xinhua/Zhao Ge)

Horses gallop on a grassland in Zhaosu County, Kazak Autonomous Prefecture of Ili, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, July 16, 2023. With abundant tourism resources, Zhaosu County has entered the peak tourism season in summer. (Xinhua/Zhao Ge)

A herdsman herds on a grassland in Zhaosu County, Kazak Autonomous Prefecture of Ili, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, July 16, 2023. With abundant tourism resources, Zhaosu County has entered the peak tourism season in summer. (Xinhua/Hao Zhao)

A tourist is seen in a cole flower and sweet basil flower field in Zhaosu County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, July 17, 2023. With abundant tourism resources, Zhaosu County has entered the peak tourism season in summer. (Xinhua/Zhao Ge)

This photo taken on July 19, 2023 shows a view of a cole flower field, with Tianshan Mountains in the background, in Zhaosu County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. With abundant tourism resources, Zhaosu County has entered the peak tourism season in summer. (Xinhua/Hao Zhao)

Herdsmen herd on a grassland in Zhaosu County, Kazak Autonomous Prefecture of Ili, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, July 16, 2023. With abundant tourism resources, Zhaosu County has entered the peak tourism season in summer. (Xinhua/Hao Zhao)

Children have fun at a cole flower field in Zhaosu County, Kazak Autonomous Prefecture of Ili, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, July 18, 2023. With abundant tourism resources, Zhaosu County has entered the peak tourism season in summer. (Xinhua/Zhao Ge)

This aerial photo taken on July 17, 2023 shows tourists having fun at a sweet basil flower field in Zhaosu County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. With abundant tourism resources, Zhaosu County has entered the peak tourism season in summer. (Xinhua/Hao Zhao)

Children ride a horse at a wetland park in Zhaosu County, Kazak Autonomous Prefecture of Ili, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, July 17, 2023. With abundant tourism resources, Zhaosu County has entered the peak tourism season in summer. (Xinhua/Zhao Ge)

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Airline Peak and Off-Peak Award Charts: The Ultimate Guide [2024]

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Why Is Understanding Peak/Off-Peak Seasonality Important?

All nippon airways, american airlines, asiana airlines, british airways, virgin atlantic, final thoughts.

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Commercial aviation is one of the most seasonal industries in the world. Typically, the busiest time of the year for airlines is from May to October.

Of course, this varies depending on the exact destinations, countries, or even cities that you visit. That being said, customer demand plummets in the winter months from November to March, especially when visiting Europe.

Airline revenue ticket prices fluctuate wildly thanks to revenue management departments, crazy algorithms, and seats sold. The same is generally true for airline award tickets. As a result, many major airlines have chosen to adopt a binary award pricing scheme, whereby there is an off-peak set of dates priced cheaper than the remaining peak dates.

In this guide, we’ll be taking an in-depth look into every major airline’s seasonality charts and discussing the nuances of each program, with the ultimate goal of minimizing the number of points you’ll use for award flights.

Travelers with flexible plans ought to book flights during off-peak when possible in order to spend fewer miles.

You’ve already worked so hard to earn your points and miles, so why spend any more than absolutely necessary?

By planning trips around off-peak award dates, you’ll extract the maximum value from your points and miles. There’s a minimal amount of work in understanding what constitutes peak and off-peak dates for each airline you want to fly on, but it’s all worth it in the end!

This guide is not about variable award pricing, which itemizes mileage and award prices based on distinct levels. Instead, we’re going to be talking about the major airlines that have specific peak and off-peak travel dates.

Airlines That Have Peak/Off-Peak Award Charts

Before talking about each individual airline, keep in mind that some airlines adopt different seasonality policies depending on what route you fly on, while others have a simple binary system.

Let’s look into the airlines and dissect their peak and off-peak award charts.

Aer Lingus is Ireland’s flag carrier. Aer Lingus is owned by the same company that owns British Airways, IAG, and its frequent flyer currency is known as Avios.

Each calendar year, Aer Lingus publishes its off-peak and peak periods. The off-peak periods constitute two-thirds of the year, whereby you can book award flights for fewer Avios.

Additionally, Aer Lingus has a distance-based award chart along with peak/off-peak pricing. You can redeem Aer Lingus Avios for great value, especially if booking during off-peak dates.

Aer Lingus’s off-peak dates for 2024  are as follows:

• January 8, 2024, to March 21, 2024
• April 8, 2024, to June 6, 2024
• September 2, 2024, to December 12, 2024

Now that we’ve pieced together the seasonality, let’s talk briefly about how many Avios you’d save by booking off-peak. Here’s Aer Lingus’s award chart for one-way flights:

Suppose you wanted to fly from Miami (MIA) to Dublin (DUB) in Aer Lingus business class on September 18, 2024. Assuming you find availability on this date, you’ll be traveling on off-peak dates, meaning you’ll pay 62,500 Avios one-way as opposed to 75,000 Avios (the peak season price).

Let’s also suppose that the departing segment of your trip falls on peak dates while the returning flight falls on off-peak dates. In this case, you’d simply pay the peak price one-way and the off-peak price the other way.

Aer Lingus’ system is pretty straightforward, but you can save up to 12,500 Avios each way by planning your off-peak travel accordingly.

All Nippon Airways’ Mileage Club loyalty program is a fantastic overall program. Although its online user interface is somewhat dated, ANA has so many fantastic redemptions that you can’t miss out on.

ANA Mileage Club takes some time to learn about, but once that time is invested, you’ll find yourself digging up value redemption after value redemption.

Hot Tip: You can start racking up ANA miles pretty easily by following our guide on how to earn lots of ANA Mileage Club miles !

You can only book round-trip award bookings with ANA, so keep that in mind, too.

However, you can book one-way award bookings on ANA using Virgin Points via Virgin Atlantic’s Flying Club .

Most airlines split up their peak/off-peak dates into a simple binary system, whereby a date is either a peak or off-peak date. ANA has 3 seasonality periods — low season, regular season, and high season.

ANA uses seasonality  only for ANA flights . Seasonality does not apply to partners like United Airlines. The following is a chart that depicts the most updated seasonality dates for flights between Japan and Europe/North America until early 2025:

Keep in mind that there are different seasonality periods depending on what regions you’re flying to/from , and even for domestic flights. For example, Hawaii has a slightly different set of dates to the above as it is in Zone 5, while the rest of North America is in Zone 6.

For flights between North America and Japan , here’s the round-trip award chart:

So, if you choose to fly on ANA business class round-trip from New York City (JFK) to Tokyo (NRT), departing on January 10, 2024, and returning on January 31, 2024, you’ll pay the low season price — an incredibly low 75,000 ANA miles.

On the other hand, flying during high season on the same route will cost a decent 90,000 miles. This represents a 20% hike in prices just for flying during different times.

Bottom Line: In order to figure out the price you’ll pay for a specific ANA flight during a specific date range, you’ll need to figure out the seasonality of the route first. Then, you can figure out the award price by matching the award chart pricing with the correct seasonality and route. Keep in mind that this only applies if you intend to use ANA miles on ANA flights. 

American Airlines  does offer off-peak awards, and these off-peak awards are often fantastic deals. However, American Airlines only does this for economy flights . Additionally, qualifying tickets include partner airlines and aren’t limited to flights operated by American Airlines.

That being said, American Airlines has off-peak economy tickets for just 2 regions — Contiguous 48 U.S. states and Canada and Europe — and these tickets are called Main Cabin Off-Peak .

The Main Cabin off-peak dates for 2024 are January 10 to March 14 and November 1 to December 14 . Tickets are 22,500 AAdvantage miles one-way.

Hot Tip: In order to minimize your out-of-pocket costs at the hands of fuel surcharges , try to plan your travel solely on American Airlines flights. 

Asiana Airlines has deservedly garnered a great reputation with its loyalty program Asiana Club . In addition, Asiana Airlines continues to be a top airline of choice to earn miles on, thanks to its attractive (and niche!) ways to redeem for maximum value .

Asiana Airlines has off-peak and peak pricing  only for its own flights . It also has different peak season dates departing on your exact route. Lastly, you can avoid peak season surcharges if you’re an Asiana Club Diamond Plus or Platinum member for both award bookings  and upgrades.

Asiana Airlines charges 50% additional miles for flights during high season, so you’ll absolutely want to avoid flying during popular times. Here is the peak season chart for 2024:

Off-peak dates are every other date not listed.

The award chart for Asiana Airlines flights is as follows for round-trip flights:

For example, let’s say you want to fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to Sydney (SYD) via Seoul (ICN) on Asiana Airlines, using Asiana Club miles, departing on July 3, 2024, and returning on August 20, 2024. The first segment is during the peak season, while the returning segment is during the off-peak season.

Furthermore, these flights have Business Smartium Class installed, which is Asiana’s best long-haul business class seat. This means that you’ll pay 150,000 miles plus 100,000 miles for the returning flight during off-peak season. You’ll definitely want to be careful to avoid peak season if you can since a 50% price hike is huge.

Bottom Line: Asiana Airlines raises prices for peak season award tickets by 50% across the board. Therefore, if flying on Asiana Airlines while redeeming Asiana Airlines miles, you should book off-peak tickets when you can. 

British Airways has previously employed a distance-based award chart with multiple zone brackets. In addition, there’s off-peak and peak pricing. British Airways also has had multiple award charts, but British Airways, Iberia, and Aer Lingus were the only airlines eligible for off-peak pricing.

While award rate charts for 2024 have not been made publicly available , according to Head for Points , British Airways’ peak and off-peak dates for 2024 are as follows:

Off-Peak Dates:

• January 8 – February 8, 2024
• February 13-14, 2024
• February 20 – March 14, 2024
• March 16-28, 2024
• April 2-3, 2024
• April 9, 2024
• April 15 – May 3, 2024
• May 7-24, 2024
• May 28, 2024
• June 3-7, 2024
• June 10-14, 2024
• June 17-21, 2024
• June 24-28, 2024
• July 1-5, 2024
• July 8-9, 2024
• July 16, 2024
• July 23. 2024
• July 30, 2024
• August 6, 2024
• August 13, 2024
• August 20, 2024
• August 27, 2024
• September 9-13, 2024
• September 16-20, 2024
• September 23-27, 2024
• September 30 – October 25, 2024
• October 29, 2024
• November 4 – December 6, 2024
• December 9-13, 2024
• December 26, 2024

If your travel dates fall outside of these dates, your award ticket will be priced as a peak flight.

British Airways’ peak and off-peak calendars have consisted of wide bands, but they also contained multiple single-date occurrences for off-peak dates. Once you’ve identified the seasonality of your travel dates, you’ll want to figure out how much your flight will cost, which has historically been distance-based. Great Circle Mapper is a valid resource to gauge your flight distance.

Hot Tip: See our guides on the top ways to earn lots of British Airways Avios , and then make sure you’re redeeming them for the best value possible !

Iberia is Spain’s flag carrier. The airline happens to be owned by the same company that owns British Airways and Aer Lingus (discussed in earlier sections of this guide), but interestingly, the peak and off-peak calendars haven’t matched those when using Avios from different frequent flyer programs.

Additionally, Iberia has used peak and off-peak dates for flights on Iberia, Iberia Express, and Iberia Regional/Air Nostrum. For all other airlines, a different award chart will apply and seasonality is not used.

Award rates and eligible peak/off-peak dates for 2024 have not been made publicly available yet.

Just like its main competitor airline Asiana Airlines, Korean Air uses peak and off-peak pricing. Korean Air SKYPASS is a fantastic program to redeem miles on , with plenty of options ranging from Korean Air first class to Etihad first class .

Although there aren’t very many ways to accrue Korean Air miles from transferable points, there are still great ways to earn lots of Korean Air SKYPASS miles .

Korean Air employs a region-based award chart. Also, one-way flight redemptions are only allowed on Korean Air. For all partners, you must book round-trip if you want to use miles.

Hot Tip: Korean Air is one of the few airlines that still operate the A380. Check out our review of Korean Air’s A380 first class .

To determine whether or not your flights fall into peak season, you’ll need to know the route and the travel dates. Peak dates for Korean Air are:

Korean Air’s round-trip award chart is as follows (one-way awards are half the price):

*Direct flights only

If flying from New York (JFK) to Seoul (ICN) on Korean Air first class on December 17, 2024, your flight will fall into peak season. For this, you’ll pay 120,000 Korean Air miles one-way compared to 80,000 Korean Air miles for off-peak travel.

Virgin Atlantic employs standard and peak seasons for Virgin Atlantic flights only, so they are not applicable to airlines like All Nippon Airways. Furthermore, Virgin Atlantic splits up seasonality calendars between Caribbean routes and all others.

For Caribbean routes, the standard (off-peak) season consists of the following date ranges:

• March 4-21, 2024
• April 16 – May 26, 2024
• June 3 – July 19, 2024
• September 3 – October 24, 2024
• November 6 – December 6, 2024

On the other hand, Caribbean peak dates are on all other dates.

The rest of Virgin Atlantic flights follow these standard dates:

• January 4 – March 21, 2024
• April 16 – June 15, 2024

All other dates are peak dates for non-Caribbean flights.

Flights on Virgin Atlantic can be significantly cheaper if planned during standard dates. Here’s the Virgin Atlantic award chart for round-trip, standard season bookings:

And here’s the Virgin Atlantic award chart for round-trip peak season bookings:

Let’s take an example flight from London (LHR) to Las Vegas (LAS), which is on the U.S. West Coast. If you book a flight during peak season in Upper Class , you’ll pay 77,500 miles, as opposed to the standard price of 67,500 miles.

Overall, there are a lot of airlines that have unique peak and off-peak season policies. For the most part, airlines tend to limit the price variation from seasonality to their own airlines. For example, Asiana Airlines levies peak surcharges only on flights operated by Asiana and not on any other carriers.

An exception to this would be American Airlines AAdvantage , which makes off-peak pricing in economy available on partner airlines such as British Airways.

Keeping track of peak dates and booking travel flexibly to avoid peak season is a recipe for conserving your hard-earned points and miles. As a result, you’ll want to confirm that you’re getting the best value redemption prior to committing to a flight.

Now, you have a one-stop shop for a guide on the airlines that carry peak and off-peak policies for award bookings. Happy booking!

Frequently Asked Questions

What time is off-peak for flights.

Off-peak travel times vary by airline, route, and dates. Each airline has defined separate date ranges for off-peak seasons where a flight will cost fewer miles.

What is off-peak travel?

Off-peak travel is defined as traveling at a time where there is less than maximum demand. Some off-peak travel ideas would be to fly to Europe during the winter months of January through March.

What is peak travel?

Peak travel is defined as the period of travel in which there is maximum demand. You’ll often see large crowds, expensive hotel prices, and more expensive airplane tickets.

Is off-peak cheaper than peak?

Off-peak is almost always cheaper than peak travel. Because airlines don’t expect to sell out their seats, they release “cheaper” seats that you can use miles for. Also, the mileage price is cheaper during off-peak compared to peak. The exact discount varies from airline to airline, so you’ll need to reference one of the airlines above to figure out how much cheaper it is to travel during peak dates with points.

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Everest Season Kicks Off with New Rules, Big Crowds, and Poop Bags

The number of climbing permits issued by Nepal is down from 2023 as some expeditions have headed to China. But there’s bound to be drama on the world’s highest peak as climbers adjust to new regulations governing pollution and safety.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

The 2024 climbing season on Mount Everest is in full swing this week as some expedition teams are arriving at Base Camp and others have begun acclimatization rotations on the peak. As Outside recently reported, the official start on the mountain’s Nepali side is delayed this year due to dangerous conditions in the Khumbu Icefall . The circuitous route through the glacier that precedes the easier climbing up to Camp I and Camp II is longer than the one used in previous years, due to an unusually dry winter and a lack of snowfall.

The scheduling delay and new route aren’t the only dynamics impacting expeditions on the world’s highest peak this year. Competition from China has drawn some climbing teams away from the southern Base Camp in Nepal. And new rules and regulations imposed by the Nepali government will shift how some teams handle safety, decorum in Base Camp, and even poop .

Climbers may encounter slightly fewer of their peers along the route to the top, as recent statements from officials in Nepal hint at a smaller crowd than in recent years. According to Rakesh Gurung, Director of Nepal’s department of tourism, the country expects to issue approximately 400 climbing permits for the season—down from the record-breaking 478 last year. As of April 22, 365 permits had been granted to 34 different expedition teams. Permits for three additional teams are still being processed, Gurung said.

“Climbing permits are down across all the peaks,” Gurung said. “One reason is the global economic situation, and another is that China is open for Everest permits this year.”

China Attracts Summit Seekers

Indeed, China has once again opened its borders to Everest climbers in 2024 following a four-year closure due to Covid. Unlike the Nepali Base Camp, the Chinese Base Camp can be accessed by car, making the transport there much easier. Some expedition operators prefer to climb from the Chinese side, claiming that Everest’s Northeast ridge is less vulnerable to avalanches and rockfall than the southern flank. The smaller crowds on the Chinese side present another advantage.

But there’s a drawback in climbing from China—currently, the government has yet to issue the final permits to Everest expeditions, or even allow climbers into the country. Just this week officials told expedition operators that they would be allowed to enter the country on May 7—significantly later than originally planned.

“Thankfully the north side doesn’t have the same end-of-season issues that the south side does,” Adrian Ballinger , CEO of Alpenglow Expeditions, told Outside . “Tibet is in the rain shadow of Everest and the monsoon is generally much later. It’s not our ideal, but everyone is doing their best and that’s our plan.”

The Everest delay is just one curveball facing climbers in China. The country recently canceled all climbing on 26,335-foot Shishapangma and 26,864-foot Cho Oyu.

The uncertainty prompted Seven Summits Treks, Nepal’s largest Everest operator, to cancel its Chinese Everest expedition altogether, moving all eight of its clients to climb in Nepal. “We have had clients waiting here [in Kathmandu] for 15 days, and our Shishapangma clients have been waiting since April 5th,” said Thaneswhar Guragai, the company’s general manager.

The cancellation of permits on Cho Oyu and Shishapangma presents a significant setback for climbers hoping to complete all 14 peaks above 8,000 meters this year, and two well-publicized expeditions hoping to retrieve the bodies of four victims of an avalanche last October . The deceased are American climbers Anna Gutu and Gina Marie Rzucidlo, along with their guides Mingmar Sherpa and Tenjen ‘Lama’ Sherpa. Two months before the avalanche, ‘Lama’ earned the speed record for climbing all 14 8,000-meter peaks in 92 days, along with Norwegian climber Kristin Harila.

New Rules in Nepal

A record number of Everest fatalities in 2023, combined with the mounting pollution on the peak, prompted Nepali officials to enact new regulations governing expeditions . The regulations oversee a wide swath of operations, from climber safety to the size of tents allowed in Base Camp. The most cumbersome rule may be the new mandate that all climbers must carry their human waste down off the mountain in biodegradable bags and deposit it at a collection center at Base Camp.

The local government body that oversees the Everest region, the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, is responsible for this program. According to Jagat Prasad Bhusal, the organization’s chief administrative officer, officials are still debating what, exactly, to do with all of that poop.

“We are currently exploring options for handling the feces. If feasible, we will either convert it into manure or dispose of it safely near Tengboche or Pangboche in Upper Khumbu,” he said.

Expedition operators who spoke to Outside expressed positive sentiment toward the poop rule, despite the logistical challenges it presents. “This will be beneficial in the future because the whole world is looking towards sustainability. A small contribution to help the mountain is never a bad idea.” Guragai said.

Another new rule requires climbers to wear RECCO-style tracking reflectors during their climbs. In theory, this technology allows rescuers to find lost climbers by using a specialized transponder that tracks the reflectors. But there are doubts this will work in Everest’s extreme altitude and vast terrain. “We don’t know how well it will work,” Gurung told Outside “But let’s try.”

Gurung said Nepali officials are planning to make GPS tracking mandatory in future seasons. The devices will improve safety, he said. “This will also reduce false summits,” Gurung added.

To enforce these new rules, Nepal’s department of tourism has opened a field office at Base Camp. Officials stationed there will make sure expeditions follow the regulations, and they will also teach climbers lessons on mountain safety and “expedition ethics,” Gurung said.

“The rules and regulations are one thing. But people have to be aware of their own abilities, too,” Gurung said. “If something happens at 8,000 meters, a rescue is basically impossible. If expedition ethics are followed in these situations, the number of casualties will be reduced greatly.”

Despite the new regulations and the slight downturn in climbing permits, officials still expect the route to become crowded. Advanced weather forecasting means most expedition operators head onto the peak at the same time to take advantage of clear skies. And many expedition operators send as many, or more, guides onto the peak as paying clients.

An estimated 1,500 porters, guides, and Sherpas will be working above Base Camp to build camps and ferry gear, and the total number of climbers heading for the summit from both sides is likely to surpass 700, officials said.

Gurung told Outside that officials will examine the 2024 season to see if the government should make additional changes for the future. “There are many issues—do we only want to make Everest cheaper? Should it be accessible to everyone or not? Gurung said. “We’ve discussed these things many times. Let’s see what the future brings.”

Record Chasers and Adrenaline Junkies Return

As is often the case, a handful of record-chasing climbers will attempt to make history on the world’s highest peak in 2024. One climber, 59 year-old Russian alpinist and mountain guide Valeriy Babanov, is attempting to become the oldest person to reach the top of the world without supplemental oxygen. Babanov is a two-time winner of the coveted Piolet d’Or award for first ascents in India and Nepal including a solo ascent of the Shark Fin on India’s famed Meru Central peak (6,310 m). “I’ve been preparing for this all my life,” he wrote on Instagram.

Two Nepali women are seeking their own records: Purnima Shrestha is hoping to become the first woman to summit three times in a single season, and Phunjo Lama is attempting to reclaim her record for the fastest ascent by a woman. Both women face major challenges with their respective efforts due to the 2024 route through the Khumbu Icefall, which adds approximately two hours to the total ascent compared to 2023.

Everest legend Kami Rita Sherpa , 54, will attempt to complete his 29th Everest summit, breaking his own world record, set after two back-to-back ascents last year. If successful, this would also mark his 43rd trip to the summit of an 8,000-meter peak.

A top international BASE jumper named Tim Howell is also targeting a record: the highest wingsuit jump in history. Howell plans to ascend from Base Camp to the southern face of 27,940-foot Lhotse, which is located next to Everest. He plans to then jump from just below the summit—the sheer face makes it perhaps the highest spot on the globe where a wingsuit jump can be accomplished. “I like the idea that this can’t be beaten.” Howell told Outside .

“It’s the highest wingsuit jump in the world.” Howell expects to reach speeds of 160 mph on his descent, dropping over 16,000 feet in under five minutes.

Could such a jump ever be done from the summit of Everest? It’s not impossible, Howell told Outside . “Maybe with the advancement in suits, somebody who is willing to risk it all maybe could do it one day,” he said.

Tulsi Rauniyar contributed to this report. 

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