In China, the academic year is typically divided into two semesters. The fall semester starts on September 1 and continues until around the tenth day of the last month of the lunar year, typically ending in early January in the northeast. This is followed by the winter break, which lasts until around the fifteenth day of the first lunar month. The spring semester begins in mid-February and runs until the end of June or early July, after which the summer vacation begins. This vacation occurs during the hottest season of the year in China.
The timing of summer vacation in China varies by region and educational stage. For example, in Beijing, the vacation schedules differ between primary schools and universities. In 2025, the primary schools in Beijing will have their summer vacation from July 7 (Monday) to August 31 (Sunday), lasting eight weeks, while universities will start their break a week later on July 14 (Monday), ending on the same day, August 31, totaling seven weeks.
The establishment of summer vacation in China is closely linked to the traditional agrarian practice of “escaping the heat.” With the establishment of the modern educational system, summer vacation was formally implemented to provide students with a period for rest and self-improvement. This break not only allows recovery from the high temperatures but also offers families an opportunity to spend quality time together.
During the summer vacation, students often engage in various educational activities, including summer camps, interest groups, and various tutoring classes. These activities help students develop new skills and interests while also preparing them for the upcoming academic year. The educational authorities also use this time to provide professional development and training opportunities for teachers, enhancing the quality of education.
Summer vacation is a peak travel period for Chinese families. To avoid crowded tourist spots and the extreme heat, it is advisable to visit seaside cities such as Qingdao and Dalian or high-altitude areas like Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie for cooler climates. Additionally, many cities host unique cultural festivals and events during the summer, such as the Qingdao Beer Festival, providing excellent opportunities to experience local culture.
Due to regional and educational stage differences, summer vacation dates in China vary. Here is an overview of the summer vacation dates for primary schools in Beijing from 2022 to 2025:
Learn dates, customs, and celebrations of major Chinese holidays to effectively plan your vacations and trips.
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