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The annual Spring Festival travel rush, known as chunyun, began on Monday as millions of Chinese embarked on journeys home. An estimated 188 million cross-regional trips were recorded on the first day, up 13 percent year-on-year. Officials forecast a record 9.5 billion trips over the 40-day period ending March 13.

31. januar 2026 Rapportert av AI

Shanghai continues to draw Korean tourists with its value, cleanliness, and flavors, enhanced by China's visa-free entry policy. Visitor numbers surged in 2025, and early 2026 bookings indicate sustained popularity.

A Japan Times staffer, accustomed to the sacred silence of Japan's shinkansen after years there, returns to the US and navigates small talk on Amtrak. Dropped off at Tukwila Station from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, he finds an empty platform and passes time in jet-lagged exploration. The account highlights cultural differences in train travel etiquette.

18. januar 2026 Rapportert av AI

Korean Air announced on January 19 that it will operate special mileage-exclusive flights on its domestic route connecting Seoul and Jeju island next month to meet Lunar New Year holiday travel demand. The Gimpo-Jeju flights will run from February 13 to 19, with two flights each day. This comes as the airline encourages mileage use during the integration of its system with Asiana Airlines amid their merger, with full schedules available on the Korean Air website and mobile app.

The Philippines will grant visa-free entry to Chinese nationals for up to 14 days starting January 16, 2026. The Department of Foreign Affairs stated the arrangement will last one year and be reviewed before expiring in 2027.

15. januar 2026 Rapportert av AI

Kenya's passport has risen to 68th globally in the 2026 Henley Passport Index, up five places from 73rd in October 2025. Holders can now access 69 destinations without a visa in advance. The improvement places Kenya among Africa's top 10 strongest passports.