Episode 1: Time to go home for reunion

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Migrant Worker, said, "The number of express train tickets left to my hometown is scarce. Almost all the tickets for next week have been sold out."

The crowds waiting to check in are larger than normal. Once aboard, the crowded compartments signal a tough test of patience for the journey ahead. But many migrant workers just brush aside the difficulties.

Migrant Worker, said, "Returning home is such a happy  thing that I don't think the journey is tough or tiring  at all." (CCTV.com)

Migrant Worker, said, "Returning home is such a happy thing that I don't think the journey is tough or tiring at all."

Chinese railway authorities say that with the acceleration of the country's railway infrastructure construction, rail transport capacity will be greatly improved over the next few years. They assured the public that by 2012, it will be no longer so difficult to buy a ticket and train journeys will be more comfortable. Beijing's ultra-modern South Railway Station is a sign of the improvements to come.

The massive station looks more like an airport terminal. Everything appears to be in perfect order, even in the festival travel peak season. Passengers come in and out of the station in no particular rush. People waiting for trains look comfortable and relaxed.