Beyond Tourism: How Travel Is Reshaping China's Economy

China's May Day holiday is putting the spotlight on a nation on the move — with hundreds of millions of trips reshaping not just tourism, but the broader economy. Beyond the sheer numbers, something deeper is happening. Travel in China is no longer just about sightseeing. It's becoming more immersive, personalized, and increasingly experience-driven. From major cities to less-known county-level destinations, travelers are seeking culture and emotional value, and connection. This shift is being powered by rising incomes, infrastructure improvements, and a growing appetite for the "experience economy." What does this mean for China's consumption upgrade, regional development, and even its global appeal? And what are the implications for the nation's long-term economic trajectory?