Spring Festival (around Lunar New Year): the biggest holiday, 7-8 days off; trains sell out and sights are crowded, but the atmosphere is unmatched.
Lantern Festival (15th of first lunar month): tangyuan, lanterns - the festival finale.
Qingming (early April): tomb-sweeping and spring outings, 3 days off.
Dragon Boat Festival (5th day of 5th lunar month): zongzi and boat races, 3 days off.
Mid-Autumn (15th of 8th lunar month): mooncakes and moon-gazing, 3 days off, family reunion.
National Day (Oct 1-7): Golden Week - the travel peak, expensive and crowded.
Visitor tip: avoid top sights during the two Golden Weeks; off-peak travel is cheaper, calmer and better.
