Chuseok Travel Demand: 60% for 'Family Trips'
Long-Distance Travel Preferred During the 10-Day 'Golden Holiday'
As the longest Chuseok holiday in recent years, lasting up to ten days, approaches, the traditional landscape of the holiday is changing. Instead of visiting in-laws to prepare holiday food and perform ancestral rites, a new trend has emerged: "multi-generational family trips," where grandparents, parents, and children travel together during the holiday.
The Incheon International Airport Terminal 1 is bustling with travelers. Photo by Asia Economy Database
According to Hotels.com on September 22, about 60% of travel demand during this year's Chuseok holiday consists of family and group trips. This figure is significantly higher than the annual average of 35%. While the traditional value of spending holidays with family remains, it shows that the setting is shifting from the home to travel destinations. During the same period, demand for couple trips was 65%, while solo travel accounted for 5%.
Travelers who planned ahead are mainly booking long-distance trips to take advantage of the extended holiday. However, in early September, short-distance and domestic trips accounted for a higher proportion of bookings. As Chuseok draws nearer, destinations that are easily accessible by short flights or drives are emerging as ideal choices for multi-generational families.
Destinations Tailored for Multi-Generational Families Gain Popularity
Japan has emerged as the leading overseas destination in terms of search volume for the final days of the Chuseok holiday. Comparing the periods of August 12-25 and September 2-15, searches for Fukuoka increased by 60%, and Kumamoto by 35%. During the same period, searches for Hoi An in Vietnam rose by 50%, while Hong Kong (35%) and Taipei (15%) also saw increases. Domestically, searches surged for Seoul (100%), Gyeongsang (75%), Busan (75%), and Gangwon (40%).
Popular destinations are mainly resorts that can be enjoyed by multiple generations. Kumamoto, located in central Kyushu, Japan, is a travel destination that combines rich cultural heritage with family-friendly attractions. Visitors can relax at Kurokawa Onsen and enjoy experiences with the character "Kumamon," offering entertainment for all ages and making it a notable family destination. Hoi An, Vietnam, is also gaining popularity for its warm weather, diverse cultural heritage, and resort-style relaxation. In Korea, Gangwon stands out for its autumn foliage and hot springs, while Busan attracts attention with its coastal walks and resort culture.
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