The influence of national holiday structure on domestic tourism expenditure: Evidence from China

This study attempted to examine the influence of national holiday structure on the domestic tourism expenditure in the context of China. Using a multiprovincial survey data set from China National Tourism Administration, we developed a utility–consumption model to empirically analyze the consumption effects of Weekend Getaway, Paid Leave, National Day Golden Week Holiday, and National Festivals and Memorial Days (NFMDs). Results show that while the consumption effects of the first three types of holiday are significant and robust, the effect of NFMDs on tourism consumption is not statistically significant. This suggests that the first three types of holiday in China may function more effectively than NFMDs in promoting willingness to travel and tourist consumption. Policy recommendations and implications are discussed based on the study results.