Wed Jan 29 07:08:41 UTC 2025: ## Lunar New Year Celebrations Across Asia Marked by Record Travel and Festive Spirit
**Seoul/Beijing/Taipei** – Hundreds of millions across Asia ushered in the Year of the Snake with vibrant Lunar New Year celebrations, marked by record-breaking travel and traditional festivities. The eight-day Chinese public holiday fueled a massive wave of domestic travel, with train stations and airports overflowing as millions returned home to their families. This year’s migration is expected to surpass previous records, with an estimated nine billion interprovincial passenger trips anticipated during the 40-day holiday period in mainland China alone.
Festive red decorations adorned streets and homes throughout East and Southeast Asia, from South Korea and Singapore to Vietnam and Thailand. In Taiwan, temples were packed with worshippers offering prayers for good fortune and a peaceful year. Many participated in traditional events, such as racing to release incense first at Fusing Temple for good luck.
However, the celebrations weren’t without challenges. Heavy snowfall in South Korea caused significant disruption to transport networks, with lengthy delays reported on major highways and train routes. Despite the travel disruptions, many South Koreans still made the journey to celebrate with family, while a significant number opted for international travel, with Incheon International Airport projecting its highest ever average daily passenger count during this year’s holiday period.
The festivities even extended beyond Earth’s atmosphere, with Chinese astronauts aboard the Tiangong space station sending New Year greetings to the world. The astronauts, dressed in festive jumpsuits, shared well wishes from space. The widespread celebrations highlight the enduring cultural significance of the Lunar New Year across Asia and beyond.
First Piper 