Cities across China hosted festive events over the National Day holiday, and on the evening of October 1, spectacular fireworks shows illuminated the night in both Shanghai and Wuhan, drawing crowds of residents and tourists.
In Shanghai, a drone and fireworks light show took the stage at Wusongkou, where visitors gathered along the riverside to take in the spectacle.
As colorful fireworks bloomed one after another in the night sky, a fleet of 1,000 drones used the heavens as their canvas, bringing to life scenes from the classic Chinese animation "Nezha Conquers the Dragon King".
Meanwhile, in central China's Hubei Province, the 2026 Yangtze River Culture and Art Season opened with a "Meet at the Yangtze to Watch Fireworks" event along the Wuhan stretch of the river.
The more than 40-minute show gave tens of thousands of visitors - many braving the rain - a dazzling visual feast. At exactly 20:00, the first fireworks shot into the sky, and several fireworks barges that were lined up on the water painted the heavens with cascades of color, their light mingling with the illuminated buildings along the riverbanks and turning the Yangtze into a glowing ribbon.
Authorities in both cities took extensive measures to ensure the safety and orderliness of the events.
In Shanghai, police and fire department personnel were deployed in advance, enforcing time-segmented controls and crowd management.
In Wuhan, traffic police implemented temporary controls around core viewing areas, sanitation workers stepped up cleaning and added mobile toilets, and volunteers handed out more than 50,000 free raincoats.
Several subway lines in Wuhan also extended operating hours to ensure visitors could head home safely after the show.
Fireworks light up skies over Shanghai, Wuhan on National Day
Chongqing, a municipality in southwestern China, has seen a surge in inbound tourism during the week-long National Day holiday, as overseas visitors flock to experience its iconic mountain landscapes and distinctive cuisine.
Celebrations kicked off Thursday to mark China's National Day, launching the annual "Golden Week" holiday through Oct. 7, as the nation celebrates the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.
The holiday has boosted daily passenger traffic at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, with daily inbound and outbound trips expected to peak at over 10,000, official data shows.
This influx of travelers has translated into a sharp rise in foot traffic across the city's key scenic spots.
At the hillside Hongyadong scenic area, lights illuminate rows of traditional stilted buildings as night falls. The iconic skyline has become a popular spot for foreign tourists to capture photos and enjoy the night view.
Situated along the Jialing River, the former ancient city gate site has been transformed into a massive multi-tiered complex featuring local restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
"Honestly, we are all really surprised. We weren't expecting such beauty. So yeah, we're really happy about it," said Serravalle Giulia, an Italian tourist.
Beyond the night views, Chongqing's renowned local cuisine is another major draw for international travelers. From riverside dishes and hotpot to traditional street snacks, the city's signature hot, fresh, and savory flavors have won praise from overseas visitors.
"I like its flavor, because it's really strong. It's a completely different diet, because in Italy, we have a lot of carbohydrates. And here, there are a lot of spices, the vegetables and a lot of meat and fish as well. In Italy, too, but it is spicy. This is different," said Consalvo Elaisa, another Italian tourist.
During this year's National Day holiday, Chongqing's scenic areas also launched a series of special activities, including folk performances, allowing foreign tourists to experience diverse Chinese culture.
Meanwhile, hundreds of tax refund shops and currency exchange outlets across the city are making shopping and spending more seamless for international visitors.
The tourism surge reflects the impact of China's continuously optimized entry policies in recent years. Expanded visa-free access, streamlined payment systems, and enhanced port services have made it increasingly convenient for overseas travelers to explore the country.
Inbound tourism surges in Chongqing during National Day holiday
