The limitations of China’s current aviation infrastructure is a sign of just how much air travel, internationally and domestic, has increased in such a short time.
Just as short term stays in Beijing became visa-less, this move will surely give tourists and business travelers second thoughts about staying in the city.
China's move is just smart. Allowing fliers to stick around two of its most impressive cities rather than moving through will attract a new type of traveler.
In addition to seeing high-speed rail as a way to cut down on short-haul plane routes and connect cities in a more intelligent way, China also sees its rail networks as a way to stimulate economic growth both through construction and the connections the lines make.
It's one thing for a Holiday Inn Express in suburban U.S. to deal with transients breaking the law by cooking up meth on a coffee maker and another for the brand to deal with a state-sponsored kidnappings in a country where they're eager to grown.
Proud cities keep their Olympic stadiums in top shape decades after the games end allowing visitors to swim, skate, or run the same grounds as gold medalists and offering tours with historic insights surrounding the events.