In Guangdong in south China, another group of migrant workers are taking to the road, but they won't suffer the discomfort of a crowded train or coach.

This year, over 400,000 migrant workers will leave Guangdong by motorcycle. Some are heading to neighbouring Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, others even further north to Guizhou province. But the roads are busy and the journey enduring. As Wang Xinye finds out, for some, it'll be days before they arrive home.

In Guangdong in south China, another group of migrant workers are taking to the road, but they won't suffer the discomfort of a crowded train or coach. [CNTV]

They say home is not too far away, though they still have another 1-thousand kilometres to go. Tian Rufei has been working in Guangdong for 18 years. Every year, he takes to the road for a 13-hundred kilometre journey back to his home town. But this year, he won't be lonely. His son is travelling with him.

Tian Rufei and his son [CNTV]

Keeping warm is crucial especially as the winter cold digs in. Gan Rixun wears two coats, three sweaters and three trousers. But that's still not enough. So his wife had to think of something new.

The journey is difficult indeed, but Liao Jun doesn't complain. His son is waiting for him back in their home town. He hasn't seen him for a whole year.

As any dedicated father, Liao Jun has prepared a surprise for his son.

For many parents like Liao Jun, Spring Festival is the only chance they get to see their children. So a 1-thousand kilometre journey is fast forgotten when they finally reach their destination for a couple of weeks of time with their families.