Abstract:
This study utilized observational data from meteorological stations across China from 1980 to 2019, including daily measurements of precipitation, maximum temperature, humidity, cloud cover, and wind speed. Based on these meteorological variables, a holiday climate index (HCI) was constructed to evaluate the climatic suitability for holidays across China. These findings revealed that the average annual number of mean holiday comfort days (HCDs) in China is 131.1, characterized by a bimodal distribution throughout the year, higher in spring and autumn and lower in winter and summer. The analysis also indicated a significant increasing trend in the annual mean HCDs, affected by effective temperature and wind speed. The bimodal distribution of HCDs is more prominent owing to the effects of effective temperature, cloud cover, and precipitation. The spatial distribution of annual mean HCDs across China is uneven. North China, Huanghuai, Jianghuai, Xinjiang, and Yunnan Provinces enjoy a greater number of HCDs compared to other areas. Conversely, Tibet has the fewest HCDs in China. Most areas display an increasing trend in HCDs, except for central South China and North China. Seasonal analysis shows that HCDs in winter, spring, and autumn are generally increasing across most parts of China, while they decrease during the summer. Playing close attention to how climate change affects holiday comfort in China can aid in the rational development and utilization of climate resources, which is crucial for safeguarding sustainable development of the tourism industry.