China isn't "closed" during Chinese New Year, but it runs differently — domestic transport sells out and many small businesses close for several days
Some restaurants and shops shut for the holiday period, and domestic transport sells out around it.
Cities are also uniquely festive during this window, which can make it a memorable time to visit if you plan around the closures rather than despite them.
The details
What actually closes
Not everything — but many small, family-run restaurants and shops do close for several days around the holiday, and staff shortages can affect service even at places that stay open.
Transport gets packed
This is the single largest annual travel period in the world by volume. Domestic flights and high-speed rail sell out well in advance — book any travel that overlaps this window as early as possible.
The upside: it's uniquely festive
Decorations, fireworks (where locally permitted), family gatherings, and a genuinely different atmosphere make this a memorable time to be in China if you go in with the right expectations and a flexible itinerary.
Frequently asked questions
Is China closed during Chinese New Year?
Not closed overall, but many small businesses — some restaurants and shops — do close for several days, and domestic transport sells out around the holiday.
Is it a bad idea to visit during Chinese New Year?
Not necessarily — cities are uniquely festive during this window. It works best if you plan around the closures (book transport early, have backup dining options) rather than being surprised by them.
When exactly is Chinese New Year each year?
It follows the lunar calendar and falls sometime between late January and mid-February. See our China public holidays page for the current year's exact dates.
Will restaurants be open?
Many stay open, especially larger and tourist-facing ones, but smaller family-run places commonly close for several days. Have a couple of backup options in mind.
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