China's National Day is celebrated annually on October 1. The upcoming major holiday is the first extended holiday since the country was put on lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The National Day holiday in China lasts for 8 days from October 1 to 8. In addition, this year, the Mid-Autumn Festival in China coincides with the National Day. Therefore, the holiday becomes even more anticipated for the Chinese people. After spending most of the first half of 2020 in self-isolation at home, many people are eager to start their travel schedules.
And the good news for eager travelers is that more than 500 tourist attractions across the country will open for free during the holiday.
Autumn scenery in Alatai, Xinjiang Autonomous Region
In early August, Hubei Province announced that all A-class tourist attractions would be open to domestic tourists for free. The free admission event started on August 8 and will last until the end of the year. The tourism administration of Alatai Province in Xinjiang also made a similar announcement on September 6, saying that all A-class attractions (at least 32 places) would be free of charge from September 6 to November 10.
Qingdao in Shandong province also has at least 12 scenic spots that will be free of charge starting July 31. Meanwhile, Xi'an in Shaanxi province said all cultural attractions, including 80% of its museums, will be free of charge starting August 1.
Xiaoyushan Park, Qingdao
Xi'an Old Town
China's Ministry of Culture and Tourism has issued a directive requiring all tourist attractions to comply with epidemic prevention procedures such as limiting the number of visitors, making reservations in advance and limiting peak hours.
