Core Points - The article discusses the rise of "textbook tourism" during the autumn break in Zhejiang, where students visit cultural landmarks related to their curriculum [1][3] - Zhejiang is the first province in China to implement a spring and autumn break system for primary and secondary schools, which has led to increased educational travel [1][3] - The autumn break coincides with a surge in tourism, with popular sites like the Lu Xun Memorial in Shaoxing and the West Lake in Hangzhou seeing increased visitor numbers [3][5] Group 1 - The "textbook tourism" trend is becoming popular among students during the autumn break, allowing them to connect with the content of their studies in a tangible way [1][3] - The autumn break was established through a collaborative effort by multiple government departments in Zhejiang, focusing on regional differences and educational stages [1][3] - The initiative has resulted in significant increases in travel, with Ningbo station reporting a 100% increase in passenger numbers compared to the previous year on the first day of the autumn break [5] Group 2 - Cultural landmarks closely tied to educational content are experiencing a surge in visitors, with activities planned to enhance students' learning experiences [3][5] - The article highlights the importance of balancing structured learning with the freedom to explore, suggesting that children should engage deeply with their surroundings rather than merely checking off tasks [5] - Educational experts emphasize that such experiences can transform abstract knowledge into concrete understanding, fostering a cycle of curiosity and exploration among students [5]

Core Viewpoint - Foshan has implemented its first autumn break for primary and secondary schools, which is expected to boost the local tourism market while aligning with the "double reduction" policy aimed at alleviating student academic pressure [1][7]. Group 1: Implementation of Autumn Break - The autumn break in Foshan is scheduled from November 12 to 14, allowing for a potential five-day holiday when combined with weekends [1]. - The initiative has sparked mixed reactions among parents, with some supporting the break for its potential to reduce academic stress and others concerned about disruptions to learning routines [1][2]. Group 2: Impact on Tourism - Data from travel platforms indicate a significant increase in travel activity, with flight bookings from Foshan during the autumn break rising by 276% year-on-year [7]. - Travel agencies have reported a doubling in customer numbers for popular routes, particularly to destinations like Beijing and Xi'an, with some agencies seeing bookings for autumn break tours exceed 800 individuals [8][9]. Group 3: Educational and Social Benefits - The Foshan Education Bureau emphasizes that the autumn break is designed to allow students to engage in social learning experiences outside the classroom, with a focus on practical activities and reduced homework [2][6]. - Schools are offering various options for students during the break, including organized outdoor activities, family trips, and on-campus care services [2][6]. Group 4: Local Business Engagement - Local businesses and tourist attractions are actively promoting special events and discounts to attract families during the autumn break, enhancing the overall experience for visitors [10][14]. - The introduction of themed activities and educational programs at local attractions aims to provide enriching experiences for students and families [14][17].

Core Points - Sichuan Province has implemented a spring and autumn holiday system for primary and secondary schools, with each holiday lasting 3 days [1] - The first autumn holiday in Sichuan officially opened on November 12, leading to increased tourism activity, particularly in popular destinations like Jiuzhaigou [1] - Jiuzhaigou scenic area reported that ticket reservations for November 13-16 are fully booked as of November 12 at 12:00 [1] Tourism Impact - The maximum carrying capacity for Jiuzhaigou during peak season (April 1 - November 15) is 41,000 visitors per day, while the off-peak season (November 16 - March 31) capacity is 23,000 visitors per day [1]

Core Points - Sichuan province is implementing its first autumn break for primary and secondary schools, starting on November 12, allowing students to have a cumulative 5-day travel period [3] - In response, China Railway Chengdu Group has increased and reconnected over 80 trains, focusing on popular routes such as Xi'an, Changsha, and Kunming [3] - The railway company has partnered with local tourism departments to offer discounts and a "ticket root travel" program, enhancing travel options for families [3] Group 1 - The autumn break policy is a collaborative initiative by the Sichuan Provincial Education Department and ten other departments [3] - The railway adjustments include customized products for day trips and three-day trips, catering to the travel patterns of families [3] - Specific discounts are available for trains between Chengdu and Zigong, with fares as low as 50% off for certain routes [3] Group 2 - The collaboration with Zigong's tourism sector allows students and parents to enjoy one-stop discounts on dining, accommodation, and activities with valid train tickets [3] - A total of 225 restaurants and 71 hotels in Zigong are participating in the discount program [3]

Core Viewpoint - The implementation of the spring and autumn vacation system in primary and secondary schools is aimed at enhancing students' well-being, improving family relationships, and stimulating consumption, but it faces challenges related to parental support and practical execution [1][2][5]. Group 1: Benefits of Spring and Autumn Vacation - The new vacation system is beneficial for students' mental and physical health, allowing them to relax and improve learning efficiency [1]. - It enhances parent-child relationships by providing opportunities for family outings during optimal travel seasons [1]. - The vacation system is expected to boost consumption by encouraging families to travel, thus invigorating the cultural and tourism market [1]. Group 2: Challenges Faced - A significant challenge is that while students have vacation time, many parents do not, leading to potential burdens rather than benefits [2]. - The lack of adequate childcare services during these vacations can create a "care gap," increasing costs for families and undermining the intended economic benefits [2]. - The existing labor laws regarding paid leave are not fully enforced in many sectors, which complicates the ability of parents to take time off [2]. Group 3: Implementation Considerations - Effective implementation requires detailed arrangements, such as timely notification of vacation dates to allow parents to plan accordingly [3]. - Local authorities should have the flexibility to manage vacation schedules to avoid congestion and increased costs during peak travel times [3]. - There is a need for comprehensive support systems, similar to those in countries like Austria and Germany, to assist parents during these vacation periods [4]. Group 4: Regional Experiences - Zhejiang province has successfully implemented the spring and autumn vacation system across all its cities, serving as a model for other regions [4]. - The experience from Zhejiang highlights the importance of collaboration among various government departments and the need for tailored approaches based on local conditions [4]. Group 5: Systemic Impact - The introduction of the spring and autumn vacation system requires a systemic approach, as it affects various aspects of society, particularly for working parents [5]. - Policies must be designed to ensure equitable benefits for all families, emphasizing the interconnectedness of social systems [5].

Core Points - The implementation of spring and autumn breaks for primary and secondary schools aims to enhance the collaborative education among schools, families, and communities, promoting the overall physical and mental health of students [1][2] Group 1: Policy Implementation - Spring and autumn breaks are defined as short holidays added to the spring and autumn semesters, distinct from winter and summer vacations [1] - The breaks are generally scheduled around midterms in the spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November), with each break lasting approximately three days [1] - Local governments (cities and states) are responsible for coordinating and flexibly developing plans based on regional realities [1] Group 2: Support Measures - To address parental concerns regarding difficulties in accompanying children during breaks, the policy includes measures such as flexible holidays, guaranteed childcare, venue discounts, and safety assurances [2] - Employers are encouraged to implement flexible and staggered holidays, prioritizing employees with minor children for time off during the spring and autumn breaks [2] - Schools will provide free childcare services and organize various activities to alleviate parental worries [2] - Public cultural and tourism venues, such as museums and science centers, will offer discounts to enhance holiday spending options [2] - Relevant departments will strengthen student safety education and ensure transportation safety during the breaks [2]

Core Points - Zhejiang has become the first province in China to implement a spring and autumn vacation system for primary and secondary schools across all 11 prefecture-level cities [1] Group 1 - The implementation of spring and autumn vacations has been a topic of increasing demand in recent years, raising questions about the necessity of these additional breaks alongside the existing winter and summer vacations [1] - The challenges associated with the implementation of the spring and autumn vacation system have been acknowledged, prompting discussions on potential solutions [1]

Core Points - The implementation of spring and autumn breaks in primary and secondary schools across various regions in China aims to alleviate academic pressure on students and promote their physical and mental development [1][2] - Concerns have been raised by parents regarding the potential negative impact on children's learning and supervision during these breaks, particularly for dual-income families [1] - Some regions are encouraging schools to organize various activities during these breaks, such as cultural, sports, and social practice events, while others emphasize the importance of teacher training and research [1] Summary by Sections Policy Implementation - All 11 prefecture-level cities in Zhejiang have issued documents regarding the spring and autumn break system for primary and secondary schools [1] - Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture in Hubei has mandated that both spring and autumn breaks last no less than one week, ideally aligning with public holidays or weekends [1] Educational Impact - Experts suggest that spring and autumn breaks can reduce students' academic burdens and benefit their overall development, while also stimulating cultural and tourism consumption [2] - There is a need for detailed supporting policies and improved supervision mechanisms to ensure the effective implementation of these breaks [2] Local Practices - Hangzhou, a pioneer in exploring the spring and autumn break system, emphasizes the responsibility of educational departments and schools to enhance service levels during these breaks [1] - In Enshi, schools have organized practical activities related to farming during the spring break and encouraged participation in autumn harvest activities, with strict regulations against assigning homework during these breaks [1]

Core Viewpoint - The implementation of spring and autumn breaks in primary and secondary schools is being explored to enhance service consumption and provide families with opportunities for travel and leisure, while also addressing concerns about educational impact and student well-being [1][2][7]. Group 1: Implementation Progress - Some regions have already established plans for spring and autumn breaks, with specific dates set for holidays in places like Guangdong, Hubei, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang [2][3]. - For instance, in Foshan, the autumn break is scheduled from November 12 to 14, 2025, and the spring break is planned around the "May Day" holiday [2]. - In Enshi, the spring break is connected to the Qingming Festival, allowing for a total of five days off, which helps families avoid peak travel times [3]. Group 2: Benefits and Concerns - Parents and teachers in regions that have implemented these breaks report positive outcomes, such as reduced travel pressure and enhanced learning experiences for children [3][4]. - However, there are concerns regarding the potential negative impact on students' learning and the possibility of increased academic pressure during these breaks [4][5]. - Some educators express that despite the breaks, students still face homework and exams immediately after returning to school, which can negate the intended benefits of the breaks [4][5]. Group 3: Best Practices and Recommendations - Successful examples from cities like Hangzhou highlight the importance of effective management and support services during breaks to alleviate parental concerns [5][6]. - Experts suggest that local conditions should dictate the scheduling of breaks to avoid a one-size-fits-all approach, ensuring that the timing aligns with seasonal activities and educational needs [8][9]. - Collaboration among various departments is essential to address safety, educational pressure, and the risk of students engaging in unproductive activities during breaks [9][10].

Core Viewpoint - The implementation of spring and autumn breaks in primary and secondary schools is being explored across various regions in China, aiming to enhance service consumption and provide families with opportunities for travel and leisure [2][7]. Group 1: Implementation Progress - Some regions have already established plans for spring and autumn breaks, with specific dates set for holidays in places like Guangdong, Hubei, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang [2][3]. - For instance, in Foshan, the autumn break is scheduled from November 12 to 14, 2025, while in Hubei, breaks are at least one week long and align with public holidays [2][3]. - In Hangzhou, families have adopted the practice of traveling during these breaks, indicating a positive reception from parents and students [2][3]. Group 2: Benefits and Concerns - Parents and teachers in regions with implemented breaks report benefits such as reduced travel pressure and enhanced learning experiences for children [3][4]. - However, there are concerns regarding the potential negative impact on students' learning and supervision during breaks, particularly for dual-income families [4][5]. - Some educators express that the pressure of assignments and exams during breaks may counteract the intended benefits of reduced academic stress [4][5]. Group 3: Recommendations for Effective Implementation - Experts suggest that to avoid the pitfalls of the spring and autumn break system, detailed supporting policies and supervision mechanisms should be established [7][8]. - It is recommended that local conditions be considered when setting break schedules to avoid a one-size-fits-all approach [9]. - Collaboration among various departments is essential to address safety, educational pressure, and other challenges associated with the breaks [9].