travel to china guide

TRAVEL to CHINA – Tips and Information Guide for 2024

Everything you need to know about planning travel to China in our comprehensive destination guide.

From hiking the Great Wall of China to conquering your fear of heights at the highest glass bridge in the world, these are just some of the reasons why you should travel to China.

China is one of the most amazing countries in the world that is deservedly on nearly every traveller’s bucket list.

There aren’t that many countries that possess such various geographical climates, rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes and culture that persisted as the result of over 4,000 years of accumulated historical heritage. 

Whether you want to roam its markets or its mountains and jungles, China has something to offer for everyone. 

This country boasts in the diversity in its cuisine in addition to that of its languages, people, climate regions and biodiversity.

When you visit China you will be thoroughly amazed that the diet and culinary options vary from region to region.

This in itself gives you more than enough reason to visit China from one end to the other.

So if you’re planning your trip to China and you want your trip to be packed with experiences, new sights, and exotic cuisine while being vastly different from any other previous trip you’ve taken, then our China travel guide should make the planning as fun as the travel experience itself!

China Travel Guide

Before heading towards China, check out some basic information you might need:

General Information

• Capital: Beijing
• Other Main Cities: Shanghai, Guangzhou, Urumqi, Shenzen, Chengdu, Xian 
• Currency: Renminbi
• Language: Standard Chinese, Mongolian, Uyghur, Tibetan and Zhuang
• Population: 1,403,500,365
• Area: 9,596,961 sq.m2  
• Electricity Voltage: 220V
• Electricity Sockets: Type A, C and I

Top 5 Places to Visit in China

• Mount Huangshan – the UNESCO World Heritage is one of the most scenic highlights in the world. The impressive landscape features daunting peaks, thick forests composed of oddly-shaped pine trees and dense clouds covering the sky. It’s a perfect weekend trip if you want to see the most notable peaks and viewpoints of the Yellow Mountains .
• Suzhou – another UNESCO World Heritage site, a town nicknamed the ‘Venice of the East.’ If you’re visiting Shanghai, don’t miss the opportunity to pay a visit to this water town. The canals, gardens, narrow alleyways, picturesque pagodas and bridges make it a perfect day trip for some relaxation time.  
• Hangzhou – one of the seven ancient capitals of China and one of its Four Garden Cities. It’s known for the West Lake and stunning and well-preserved nature. The lake area consists of about 60+ cultural sites and spots to enjoy its nature . You can book a guided cruise tour that combines the best of natural sites but also incorporates this city’s rich history. 
• Guilin – this site has well-deserved its reputation for being one of the biggest natural gems in the world. The oddly-shaped hills (Karst Mountains), mysterious caves and its riverside decorated with the tall bamboo trees, paints a scenery unique to China.
• Beijing – C hina’s capital that is home to over 21 million people is not only the political center of the country but also has other impressive cultural and historical highlights that are not to be missed! Those include one of the World’s most recognizable landmark, the Great Wall of China and, equally as fascinating Forbidden City – today, a declared UNESCO World Heritage which was home to the rulers of the famous Ming and Qing dynasties.

Top 5 Travel Experiences in China

• Hiking the Great Wall of China – There are many sections of the wall that you can hike. We recommend the Jinshanling section, as most agrees it not only has the most beautiful scenery but is also the most accessible. The Chinese government has invested a lot into the infrastructure of this section, vastly improving the paths, cableway, roads and adding new hiking routes and even, organizing a shuttle bus.  You can even camp on the Great Wall of China if you want!
• Walk Over the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge – This is the longest and highest glass bridge in the World. It will be not only a memorable but also an adrenaline-inducing experience. This area is incredibly special, especially because of the Avatar Mountains and all the beautiful nature in this national park.
• Visit the Panda Reserve in Chengdu – if you’re an animal lover then you won’t regret taking the time to explore the reserve. The Chinese consider pandas sacred animals, and they are doing everything they can to ensure that we will be able to remove pandas from the endangered animals’ list. This gorgeous reserve is a testament to their dedication . Check out our post on how to spend 3 days in Chengdu .
• Mogao Caves , Dunhuang – More popularly known as the Caves of a Thousand Buddhas, these are a series of caves (492 caves) where ancient Buddhist carvings, manuscripts and murals from the 14th century can be found. This place is well worth the time, energy and money you’d need to see it. The world-class experts will guide you through over 41,800 meters of Buddhist history.
• Visit the Forbidden City – This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Beijing is incredibly important for the history and culture of the Chinese people. It is a wonderful example of traditional Chinese architecture, it’s home to the famous Palace Museum and it is the largest ancient palatial structure in the whole world!

Best Time To Visit China

When considering when to plan your trip to China one of the most important things to keep in mind are the season and the weather.

Some people plan their trips around certain events. While others plan around the seasons/weather. 

When NOT to Visit China

When organizing your trip to China, a good starting point is to first decide when NOT to go!

A good rule of thumb is to avoid every public Chinese holiday ! But that might prove a little bit trickier than you’d expect since some follow the lunar calendar and are different year to year. 

And it sounds counterintuitive to avoid China at certain times. But during public holidays China turns into an entirely different country for a traveller.

This is because transportation tickets are more expensive. Booking a train ticket will prove to be almost an impossible feat and all tourist sites will be overcrowded.

Not to mention that a lot of places will be closed for a couple of days or even a week. So you might miss an opportunity to visit locals’ favorite small eateries or some traditional venues.

So for visitors who really want to take their time and enjoy China’s main highlights, this would definitely be the worst time to visit.

Avoid the Spring Festival (more known as Chinese New Year/ Chunjie) – mid to late January to mid-February.

This is the most important holiday and you can expect to see millions of Chinese traveling all over the country.

It’s known to be the biggest annual mass migration in the world.

You should also avoid visiting China during the Golden Week or the week of National Day.

It’s from the 1st – 7th of October. And while the number of people that participate is lower than during the Spring Festival, there are still a lot of people moving and a lot of places closed to the public.

A lot of Chinese travelers also go abroad during this time so you can expect ticket prices for Japan and Thailand to go up.

If you want to visit during those dates, then just make sure to book well in advance and keep in mind that you will be paying more for everything – from accommodation to street food.

Other popular events are the Lantern Festival and the Dragon Boat Festival .

Those events should not interfere with your travel but expect slightly larger crowds at certain sites.

When to Visit China

So now that we tackled when NOT to visit China, what is the best time to visit China?

China occupies a landmass with various climates spanning all over the country. 

The best times for a visit are generally in spring (March-May) and autumn (September–November).

If you’re having trouble deciding when to visit, a useful trick is to also divide China by regions and seasons.

As we said, spring is a great time to travel pretty much all over China.

But in the north, it might be colder during early spring or late fall. But the weather should still be manageable.

The exception is Tibet . This is because it is closed to foreign visitors for two months every spring. 

From April to June, you can visit just about anywhere.

The best times to visit some places in northern China, Hainan or Tiber are during mid-summer. 

Some destinations are almost unbearably hot during summer and if you are sensitive to high temperatures, you should keep that in mind.

The places that we would avoid during the summer are:

• Nanjing (Jiangsu)
• Wuhan (Hubei)
• Chongqing (Sichuan)
• Inner Mongolia

Other Travels Seasons

The factor that you should include when planning when to visit is the rainy season.

From April to August if you’re planning to visit southern China, your flight just might be delayed or even cancelled due to bad weather conditions.

At this time of year, it’s best to travel via high-speed trains – they’re rarely delays, fast and comfortable. 

As with many other places in the world, in July and August students are on a school break and many families use that time to go on a summer vacation.

Prices will be higher in summer and you should plan well in advance.

Autumn is ideal if you want to visit spots that otherwise experience unbearably high temperatures in summer.

We would suggest during autumn that you plan to visit the Great Wall, Hong Kong and Xinjiang. 

To see the incredible feat of mankind, the Great Wall, surrounded and bathed in autumn colours, is a visual experience like no other. 

If you’re thinking to book your trip during your winter holidays you will be rewarded with fewer crowds and cheaper prices if you can withstand the cold.

During winter you can visit the Harbin Ice Festival (24th of December to 25th of February).

The snow and the scale of ice sculptures that are illuminated at night are an amazing sight to see.

The necessity of warm clothing can never be overemphasized as the temperatures drop during night low as -24 °C and are hardly ever over zero during the day. 

A less known fact is that Tibet is great for winter traveling.

During the high season, there is a limited time how much you can spend at the Potala Palace . But you can spend as long as you wish during winter.

The capital of Tibet, Lhasa, also has warmer winters than Beijing. 

If that’s not a good enough reason to travel to Tibet during winter, we will also mention that it’s definitely a more economical option and permits to enter the region are easier to get.

You will get a more authentic experience during winter because that’s also when many pilgrims arrive in Tibet. 

Food In China

• Beijing Duck – This dish is a must when you’re in Beijing, the birthplace of this iconic dish. The sweet and savory duck is served with spring onions, cucumbers, pancakes and other different sides (every restaurant has its own spin on this Chinese classic).
• Hot Pot – This can be an amazing choice or an utter disaster if you do not understand the Chinese spices and ingredients. It’s a pick your own destiny. First, choose the soup for your pot. This dish is all about the spice, but if your counterpart can’t handle the spice as well as you, you can split the pot into two. After choosing from a wide array of vegetables and meats you walk over to the sauce bar. The sauce bar offers barbecue sauce, freshly cut herbs, sesames and pastes, meats and vinegar. Ask a local to guide you through the process and help with their suggestions.
• Hong Shao Rou – This means red braised pork belly. It’s a dish that originated in Shanghai and is popular all across China. It’s cooked with garlic, chilli peppers, rice wine, ginger, soy sauce, sugar and deeply aromatic spices.
• Dumplings – These can be eaten at any time of the day.  They are usually dipped in soy sauce or vinegar with garlic. Dumplings are a staple of Chinese cuisine and there are many variations to cater to all tastes. The dumpling dough can be based on potatoes, flour or bread and the filling can be made from almost anything – various meats, fish, vegetables or cheese.
• Chow Mein – This is a dish made popular by the locals of Northern China, which today has reached global fame. It’s a dish made out of thin noodles (bean and cornflour dough) and is accompanied by sliced meats, Chinese vegetables and an egg.

Travel Itineraries Suggestions for China

China is vast. As the 3rd largest country in the world, China has much to offer by way of travel experience.

But trying to see the entire country can be daunting.

Here is a suggested 12-day itinerary to give you the best chance to see the highlights in the least amount of time we’d recommend when you visit China.

Beijing (3-4 Days)

Perhaps the biggest reason why people go to China is to see the Great Wall of China.

Our main piece of advice is to skip the Badaling , which is the busiest section of the wall. 

Visit a part of the wall that is unrestored but still tourist-friendly, such as Jinshanling, Huanghuacheng or Gubeikou .

The easiest section to visit would be to take a bus to Mutianyu . 

There you won’t have the wall to yourself. But you will have successfully avoided most of the crowds and will see beautiful views.

The second day, go and roam Beijing’s hutongs.

These are a network of alleyways and courtyard houses that make up Beijing.

There are day tours that usually include the Wudaoying Hutong , Houhai Lake, the Lama Temple and the Bell and Drum Towers .

B ut if you have the time, the best way is to simply let yourself get lost.

If you have a budget set aside for activities, hutong tours are interesting as you’d get to learn more about history and culture.

On your third day, make sure to go and see the Tiananmen Square that carries a portrait of Mao right over the entrance to the Forbidden City.

The Forbidden City is huge and you could spend a full day there.

But for most travellers, even two hours is enough to see all the highlights before starting to feel overwhelmed.

For the rest of the day, go to Jingshan Park and enjoy the views of Beijing and the Forbidden City!

Xi’an (2 Days)

Rent a bike at one of the main gates of the wall and do a round trip tour around the ancient wall. 

When you get off the wall, take some time to explore the art district near the South Gate .

The area is brimming with small shops and souvenirs.

This stunning neighborhood is a joy to photograph. 

Take one afternoon to go roaming around the Huimin Jie Muslim market.

From bargaining for interesting souvenirs to bring back to your loved ones to eating some of the most delicious and cheapest street food you’ll ever have.

Also, you are only a day trip away from Xi’an are the terracotta warriors.

You can see rows upon rows of life-sized terracotta warriors.

Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong (2 Days)

Hiking through Jiuzhaigou is one of the most beautiful trails you’ll encounter. It is full of crystal lakes and rivers that will mesmerise you.

The waters are so crystal clear that they reflect the sky.

The next day visit Huanglong , known for its calcite deposit pools.

These vibrantly colored pools are why Chinese have nicknamed the Huanglong – “fairyland.”

Songpan (1 Day)

If you’re a fan of horses then definitely don’t miss out on a horse trek across the Tibetan plateau.

You will be able to travel with a local guide that will show you parts of China that most visitors don’t get to see.

Chengdu (2 days)

A bus ride to Chengdu is four to six hours (there are flight options available too). This will leave you just enough time in the afternoon to explore teahouses and the city’s scenic gardens.

For dinner, you should go and get the traditional eating experience – the hot pot (from Chongqing and Sichuan).

The next day you might want to take the two-hour trip to see the largest Buddha in the world.

There are many tourist buses that operate on a daily basis.

One of the highlights of Chengdu is their Panda Reserve .

Morning visits are the best because that’s when the pandas are most active.

They also have a baby area, where you can observe cubs play with toys and roll around.

Shanghai (2-3 days)

To visit Shanghai, try to have at least two full days available to give this city justice.

Some of Shanghai’s highlights are: the Bund, the Yu Yuan Gardens , the French Concession and Jing’an Temple .

A lot of visitors claim that the best soup dumpling eatery is outside the Yu Yuan Gardens. Just follow the queue.

To see the ever-rising skyscrapers expand before you in every direction you look, just go up to one of Shanghai’s buildings.

The usual go-to observatory spots are the Shanghai World Financial Center and the Jin Mao Tower . 

Visa Requirements For China

If you are travelling to China you will have to apply for a visa from the Chinese embassy or their consulate.

This is unless you are a citizen from one of the visa-exempt countries.

An important side note : Hong Kong and Macau, have their own independent border control policy.

This means that they have their own visa requirements for which you have to apply separately from your Chinese visa.

There are only seventeen countries that are allowed to travel without a previously issued visa to China.

The countries that are exempt from visa are :

Stay up to 90 days:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina 

Stay up to 60 days:

Stay up to 30 days

•  Seychelles
•  United Arab Emirates

Stay up to 15 days:

For further information and up-to-date changes, click here .

READ MORE: Our experience with getting a Chinese visa in Vietnam .

How to Travel to China

There are plenty of ways to travel to China. Whether you prefer to travel by air, land or sea you will find many options and rates for your travel into the country.

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from most countries in the world to China.

China air transport hubs are:

The biggest and most used airlines are:

• China Eastern Airlines
• China Southern Airlines
• Hainan Airlines

International flights connect China with major cities all around the world. Further, Chinese domestic flights connect all major cities within the country.

The only two cities in China that have two airports are Shanghai (Hongqiao International Airport and Pudong International Airport) and Beijing (Nanyuan Airport and Capital International Airport).

So be mindful of that when booking your flight.

There are eighteen cities in China that offer 72-hour visa-free transit so visitors can have a short stay in the most popular cities. Just note that these also tend to be the most expensive ones too.

From Europe:

Getting to China from Europe could be tricky and it most likely requires transfers.

That being said, you can still get to China from many European cities, such as Amsterdam, Milan, Rome, Brussels, Paris, Frankfurt, Manchester, Madrid, London, Zurich, Barcelona and Helsinki.

From the US:

It is possible to catch a direct flight from the US to China.

Most flights originate in San Francisco, Seattle, Detroit, Los Angeles, Seattle or Chicago and terminate in either Beijing or Shanghai.

Of course, pricing and availability vary. And you can expect the flights to be operated by one of the three big companies: Delta, American or United Airlines.

There are a variety of ways and border crossings when you want to visit china overland.

Travelling by train and vehicle are the most common.

The most usual way to get from Europe to China via train is to hop on the Trans-Siberian railway. 

The Trans-Siberian train is a lot easier to arrange when it comes to booking a ticket or organizing your visas. And it is significantly faster.

The Trans-Siberian route, from Moscow – Beijing, is just one train. So in terms of being pragmatic and budget-friendly, this is the option we would recommend.

But that said, there’s another possible route: the Silk route via Kazakhstan. 

Here you have the following options :

• London – Moscow
• Moscow – Astana or Almaty (Kazakhstan). This is the direct route for China
• Moscow – Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan)
• Moscow – Tashkent (Uzbekistan), if you wish to start from Uzbekistan
• Tashkent – Samarkand – Bukhara and Urgench for Khiva, these trains link Tashkent with three cities in Uzbekistan
• Tashkent – Almaty
• Almaty/ Astana – Ürümqi, which is the next step to China
• Ürümqi – Xian – Beijing

Train tickets are more expensive than traveling by air and transit times are longer too.

But i f you do want to spend some time in Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan or Kazakhstan then taking this route is a nice way to do sightseeing.

If you’re coming from USA/Canada, the easiest way would be to book your ticket to Moscow and then decide whether you want to take the Silk or the Trans-Siberian route.

We do not suggest driving because you could only drive to China, not inside the country.

International driver’s licenses are not valid in China.

So even if your starting point is from one of the neighbouring countries, it’s less hassle to book a train or hop on an airplane.

China Travel Tips

If you’re not from China or eastern Asia, you could find the culture and way of interacting to be quite strange.

The way of expressing emotions and opinions is quite different in China as compared to Western cultures.

But that’s just the beauty of cultural variety.

Besides that, there are certain things that you should pay attention to in order to have a good time in China.

And there are also things that you should know so that you will be respectful towards the locals.

Here are some tips we have for you during your stay in China:

• Don’t be afraid of raised voices! A lot of the time you will encounter Chinese people talking very loudly. In most cultures that would signalize that a heated discussion is about to turn into a brawl. But actually, Chinese people can tend to just talk loudly and passionately. 
• Be sure to have Travel Insurance for the duration of your trip. One incident can cause a major impact on your wallet – not to mention your travel plans.
• Don’t tip. This might go against your personal beliefs, but Chinese don’t tip and neither should you. This will only confuse them or some may even find it insulting.
• Buy a VPN. There are a lot of useful websites that are not accessible in China (like Facebook or Google!) We recommend ExpressVPN. Use this link to get 30 days free when you sign up.
• The preferred method of payment is cash. Most places only accept cash unless you are visiting upscale hotels and restaurants.
• Use the Yuan currency only. The Hong Kong dollar or US dollar won’t be accepted.
• Install Pleco – the best app for Chinese language for travellers.
• Haggle. When merchants see that you are not a native Chinese, they will almost always rise the market price. It’s not unusual to haggle. Some merchants even respect you more if you do.
• Bring toilet paper and hand sanitizer. In a lot of toilets in China, you won’t always find these essentials.
• If in need of help, turn to the youth. Statistics have shown that a majority of Chinese under the age of 25 speak conversational English.

Budget for Travelling in China

China is a huge country and prices vary significantly depending on what region and what time of the year you’re visiting.

Since you’re probably interested in the range of prices of certain things you’ll definitely spend money on, we’ve decided to help.

Here’s a list of some essential expenses and their general cost range as you travel to metropolitan areas:

• Accommodation : $4 – $400+
• Food : $0.50 – $45+
• Drinks : $0.40 – $15
• Domestic/Local Transportation : $0.30 – $30
• Tours : $15 – $600+

When it comes to accommodation, the cheapest form is hostels. 

In less touristy areas you can find mixed dorm beds from $4 USD per night.

Even in major cities, like Beijing and Shanghai, the prices start from $3 USD per night!

As for food, the best way to save money is to eat street food or visit a food court at a shopping mall.

The street food in China is not only cheap but also incredibly good. Even the wealthiest love to indulge in street food.

A filling meal from a street vendor would cost you up to $5 USD. But it’s usually less than that.

For transport costs, you can rent a bike, which is around $3 USD, depending on how much terrain you want to cover.

If you don’t have a budget for cultural activities, you’ll be relieved to know that there are many museums that don’t charge admission!

Flashpacker

There are a lot of mid-range accommodation options, from private rooms in hostels to private rooms in shared Airbnb and hotels.

Private rooms in hostels cost a little bit more than two beds in a mixed dorm room (around $8 USD per night) or a private room in an Airbnb (from $20 USD per night).

Mid-range hotel prices start from around $30 USD per night.

Eating out in local restaurants usually costs from $10-15 USD per meal.

The cost of an average alcoholic beverage in a bar would be around $8-10 USD.

Transport costs, such as taxi, could cost from $9 USD, of course depending on the time of the day (night fare is more expensive) and the distance you will cover.

But always ask for the price in advance before getting into the taxi!

Double rooms in a luxury hotel or a private home booked through Airbnb start from around 120$ USD per night.

Eating out at the most excellent restaurants (hotel restaurants or local ones) will cost you from $45 USD per meal.

There is an array of cultural activities available to all tastes and depending on your interest – whether it’d be visiting the Chinese national opera or the hottest night club – prices vary.

If you’re used to travelling in luxury through other countries, you can expect that China not only delivers the luxury to which you’re accustomed but also costs considerably lower when compared to other countries.

You could treat yourself to one of the most luxurious tours, such as a Zhujiajiao Water Village Tour from Shanghai.

Transportation In And Around China

China is a huge country and if you plan to travel around it – you’ll need some help.

Keep in mind that renting a car won’t be an option, since no international driver’s licence is valid in China!

Here are all the other ways to travel in cities and between them:

Chinese airlines are safe and comfortable.

There are over 1,200 routes and nearly 1,000 are domestic routes. 

The most popular airports for domestic travel are in Shanghai, Guangzhou and Beijing. 

Besides Macau and Hong Kong, there are over 200 airports in China that connect over a hundred internal cities and eighty foreign cities.

The most popular and reliable airlines are:

• Eastern Airlines
• Air China Limited
• Shandong Airlines
• Southern Airlines
• Shanghai Airlines
• Xiamen Airlines
• Shenzhen Airlines
• Sichuan Airlines

Public buses are generally crowded, but very affordable.

Try to avoid peak hours, as traffic jams occur in large and populous cities quite often. 

The buses generally run from 6:30 in the morning to 7:30 in the evening. 

In some cities they run through the night.

When you board the bus, at the front door there will be a coin box where you are expected to pay for your fare.

However, some buses have a ticket conductor that oftentimes charges according to how much distance you will cover.

The Intercity Long-Distance Bus

The intercity long-distance bus is another increasingly popular option attributed to the development and extension of highways.

All cities have coach stations which are located at the city’s railway station.

The long-distance buses operate between almost all Chinese cities.

The run time is usually from early morning to late in the evening, and for longer distances – there are fewer services throughout the day.

The buses usually have a toilet, TV, air-conditioning and some might even have a sleeping berth if it’s an overnight trip.

Mini-buses operate to try and alleviate the pressure of bus transportation.

The tickets are a bit higher in price and they’re determined by the distance you take.

Still, it is best to avoid peak hours which are from 7 am–9 am and 5 pm–7 pm.

Pay close attention to your belongings as pickpockets operate most during rush hour.

Tour buses usually feature a Chinese character ‘游’ in front of the bus number.

Tour buses are commonly seen in major Chinese cities where there are many famous highlights.

They have a predetermined scenic route and usually have a tour guide on board to share interesting bits of history and fun facts.

Trolleybus/Electric Buses

From 2010, trolleybuses have joined the public transit system in 14 Chinese cities. 

All trolleybus systems in China hail from after the 1950s except in Shanghai.

Shanghai’s trolleybus system was opened in 1914 and is still operating – making it the oldest operating trolleybus system in the world.  

Traveling by railway is the main means of transportation in China and its network is one of the biggest in the world. 

The mileage of operating railways adds up to 124,000 kilometres and the number of passengers has surpassed 2.5 billion. 

Out of the 124,000 kilometres of railway, the 22,000 kilometres are utilized by the high-speed railways. 

The Chinese railway connects almost every place in China – even the most remote ones – and is the backbone of the Chinese traffic network.

The domestic trains are divided into five categories:

• High-speed/bullet trains 
• Fast trains
• Tourist trains
• Express trains
• Normal trains

The High Speed/Bullet Train

This remarkable train, on average, operates fast as 250-300 km/h.

The price of tickets depends whether you want to buy first, second or business class as well as if they have a VIP category.

Some overnight trains offer soft and luxury soft sleeper options.

Many trains sell standing room tickets which cost the same as second class tickets.

The facilities are similar to those of an airplane. 

The seats can be adjusted and you have use of a foldable table. Further, electrical sockets and meals and snack services are provided at a price.

This website will help with booking tickets and schedules.

The major cities have metro systems either already in operation, in planning stages or under construction.

The underground transit is developing at rapid speeds.

This is because one of the priorities to make China a greener country is to reduce the pollution of its cities and improve the quality of living.

Chinese metro systems are immaculate. They transfer large amounts of people, are very frequent and nearly always on time.

This contributes to diminishing the traffic jams and above ground transit.

The Shanghai Metro is the longest metro system in the world. 

Taxi is a very convenient mode of transport and surprisingly not too expensive.

In major cities, all vehicles have a meter.

If you’re situated in a smaller town, ask at your hotel for a price estimate.

And if you’re thinking of covering a long distance, it’s possible to negotiate a deal. 

Taxis are available at nearly all times and everywhere.

Chinese taxi drivers have a reputation of being very honourable. But it is always good practice to exercise caution.

China has over 110 thousand kilometres of navigable streams, lakes, rivers and canals.

The Grand Canal is 1794 kilometres long. It connects seventeen cities (from Beijing to Hangzhou) and five rivers (Huaihe, Qintang, Haihe, Yangtze and Huanghe.)

Since so many railways and highways have been built in recent years, waterway transport has diminished.

But there are still ways to move around the country via waterway – especially the Yangtze cruise (Baidi to Yichang), Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal and the Li River cruise (Guilin – Yangshuo).

Accommodation in China

There is a lot of variety and options when it comes to accommodation in China.

On one hand, you can stay in a very cheap hostel (which doesn’t mean that it lacks quality!).

But China is also full of luxurious hotels and villas.

When picking a place to stay, you should be aware of the fact that, in the Chinese language, there are different words for hotel and they indicate the status of the place. 

• Dajiudian – “Big wine shop” – luxury accommodation
• Shan Zhuang – “Mountain resort” – accommodation in the countryside
• Binguan & fandian – a general term for a hotel and can mean anything from an average hotel to a smart hotel.
• Kèzhàn – Basic guesthouse
• Zhāodàisuŏ – Hostel
• Lǚguăn/ lǚshè – inn
• Zhùsù – accommodation

China is one of the best places in the world when it comes to the number of affordable accommodation options!

The network of hostels in China is ever-expanding and most of them are affiliated with the International Youth Hostel Association.

They tend to have clean and modern facilities, nicely designed social spaces, friendly and English speaking staff and fast Wi-Fi.

Getting around China is challenging if you don’t speak the language, but the staff from hostels usually are willing to help you on your way.

They will gladly write the places that you need to visit or a couple of useful phrases to ease day to day communication. 

Also, even booking a private room in a hostel is considerably cheaper when compared to European countries.

The quality of hostels is good and the prices tend to be very low.

If you’re in Shanghai, staying at the Mingtown Nanjing Road Youth Hostel will cost around $9 per night.

The dorms have 6 beds and male and female dorms are separate.

A deluxe private room in Beijing’s Chinese Box Courtyard Hostel costs around $50 and breakfast is included in the price.

The hostel also has a couple of free thematic nights, such as the free vegetarian dumpling party or the professional and traditional Chinese Kongfu tea course!

When it comes to cheap hotels, you will usually find these located near bus or train stations.

Chinese locals usually rent beds and not rooms, so doubling up with strangers isn’t uncommon, especially as a means of saving money.

But foreigners are not allowed to share a room with Chinese people.

Instead, they have to rent a whole room. But usually, you will be able to negotiate a good price.

If you’re an avid camper, just know that it is only possible to camp in Hong Kong.

There are free campsites all over the New Territories and in the beautiful nature of Qinghai, Gansu, Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang, Yunnan, Sichuan and Tibet.

But just know that to camp, you would have to obtain a government-issued permit.

Hong Kong, Macau and few southwestern provinces have a number of privately owned guesthouses.

They range in size and quality, from tents to family mansions.

A double room in one of these guesthouses is usually cheaper than in a hotel.

There is at least one mid-range hotel in every town in China. 

But the quality of the hotel is hard to predict from the price itself. 

An old hotel with faulty bathrooms and washed out sheets could charge you the same as a newly opened establishment.

The general rule is to always try to book the newer place. 

In more isolated places, you should be able to find a double room for $20 USD per night. But in bigger cities from $40 USD per night.

One thing you can always rely on when staying in a Chinese hotel is that you will be left with a pair of plastic or paper slippers and a vacuum flask of hot water that can be refilled by the staff!

If you’re in Chengdu, the Chengdu Rising Butterfly Hotel is one of the best options.

Either a business twin room or a queen room costs a little over $50. And in some cases, breakfast is included in the price.

The Holiday Inn Express Yizhuang in Beijing will be a great experience.

The price of a standard room with free breakfast for two is usually around $70. But you can often find discounts and pay around $40!

Luxury hotels are situated in larger cities and offer the same level of service as any four or five-star hotel anywhere else in the world.

They have the same facilities that are to be expected: gyms, swimming pools and business centers.

The price of a double room will be from $120 upwards and an additional 15% service charge will be added. 

The Niccolo Chengdu hotel is one of the most popular of its kind.

The very luxurious hotel will offer an incredible experience that will satisfy any type of guest – all for the price of $150 per night!

The Upper House in Hong Kong is the epitome of glamour and it’s especially great for business travel.

It has the largest hotel rooms in Hong Kong, along with ocean views and an amazing location.

The prices start at around $400, but the largest penthouse costs over $2000!

Safety While Travelling in China

China is regarded as a pretty safe and non-violent country.

If there is unrest it’s typically contained within certain areas.

Petty Crime

The biggest dangers are petty crimes such as pickpocketing – which with administering precaution is preventable.

Travellers are targets for pickpockets and thieves.

These thieves usually operate near train and bus stations, hard-seat train carriages, intercity but also long-distance buses (especially take precaution if you’re boarding the sleeper bus) and public toilets.

It is not advisable for women to travel solo. 

Always check your restaurant bill to make sure you are not being charged extra for hidden expenses and avoid paying by credit card so you can make sure they won’t add any extra charges.

Safety in Taxis

The most widespread scam are the taxi scams at the Beijing Airport.

Always queue at the taxi rank and insist that the driver uses his meter.

Avoid pedicabs and motorized three-wheelers. Many times these drivers will agree on an initially negotiated price and then after you arrive at the destination they insist on a different sum, which sometimes can even be 10x the initial agreement. 

Traffic Accidents

One of the dangers when traveling in China are the high numbers of traffic accidents.

The World Health Organization (WHO) made an estimate that there are approximately 600 vehicular deaths per day.

When taking a long-distance bus you’ll find that there are no seatbelts. Even taxis outside of major cities oftentimes don’t have rear seatbelts fitted.

The biggest danger is crossing the street no matter how ridiculous it sounds.

In China there are a large number of electric cars and hoverboards that run silently and you probably wouldn’t even hear them until it’s too late.

The red lights in China don’t mean much for Chinese drivers as they often run through them. So even the green figure signaling that it’s safe to cross doesn’t always mean that.

Medical System In China

The healthcare system in China is a mix of public and private services.

Major cities such as Beijing and Shanghai have hospitals with world-class care and specialist services.

Rural regions sometimes lack even the very basic healthcare services.

Sometimes healthcare options are limited to only types of traditional medicine such as acupressure, herbal remedies and acupuncture.

You should always travel with travel insurance ! A comprehensive travel medical insurance is mandatory for visitors.

If you are treated at a private hospital the price difference between a private and a public hospital is significant.

If you’re suffering serious health issues and at the time of medical assistance you’re in one of the more remote areas, you will have to organize an expensive airlift.

Preparation is key to easy and safe travels.

Make sure that your policy includes medical evacuation, translation service and private hospitals to ensure maximum comfort.

Packing List For Travel To China

While there is always a variety of packing options depending on the season and length of travel, these are the travel essentials we recommend for your trip to China.

Note: This list is intended for trips during spring and summer.

Clothing And Wardrobe For Men And Women

• 3x Comfortable, long pants 
• 5x Short-sleeved shirts
• 2x Long-sleeved shirts
• 1x Wool sweater
• 1x Windbreaker/rain jacket 
• 1x Fleece jacket
• 1x Flip flops 
• 1x Adventure sandals
• 1x Waterproof shoes
• 1x Hiking shoes
• Undergarments
• Breathable socks 

Miscellaneous Items

• Extra SD memory card
• A cellphone (make sure to have an offline Translator App, phrasebook, copies of  needed travel documents and ids, currency converter, copy of your insurance card/policy and emergency contact info)
• Portable battery
• Power adapter
• Sunhat with a wide brim and a chin strap
• Insect repellent
• Toilet paper
• Hand sanitizer 
• Guide book and a map
• Pocket knife
• Book with everyday phrases in Chinese
• Reusable water bottle

Check Out Our China Travel Blogs

Surviving the world’s most dangerous hike – mt huashan, the 10 best things to do in hangzhou, china (2024 guide), 26 awesome things to do in beijing, china (2024 guide), the perfect 3 days in taipei itinerary [2024 guide], 3 days in chengdu, china – the perfect itinerary, tianducheng – china’s strange city of paris, mount cangshan – hiking high in dali, falling in love with shaxi, china, the ‘real’ china – the ancient village of chengyang, how to visit zhangjiajie national forest park (the avatar mountains), camping on the great wall of china (the complete guide), a day in kashgar – china’s eclectic uyghur city.

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China Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 29, 2024

China is a country filled with micro-cultures, languages, cuisines, and ethnicities. Rapid change has attracted curious people from around the globe and there is a thriving expat scene for anyone looking to teach overseas.

While I dislike the pollution of many of the big cities, the countryside, the food, people, and the history you’ll discover here will leave you in awe and forever changed. This is a country with layers where everything is filled with meaning and history.

This travel guide to China can help you plan your visit to this gigantic country (there’s over a billion people here covering 9.5 million square kilometers) with advice on things to do, how to get around, stay safe, save money, and much, much more!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money Saving Tips
• Where To Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on China

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in china.

1. Visit Hong Kong

Hong Kong is bustling metropolis that combines high rise buildings with traditional street markets and temples. You have a large expat population, good shopping, fantastic nightlife, and delicious food. It’s one of my favorite cities in the world and I never get tired of visiting!

2. Explore Shanghai

One of China’s largest, busiest, and most visited cities, Shanghai is like visiting the future — fast trains, lights everywhere, efficient organization, and a cosmopolitan vibe. I love Shanghai. To get a sense of historical China, head to the Old City and see the YuYuan Gardens. For some of the best shopping in China, head to Nanjing Road.

3. Wander Beijing

Visit Tian’anmen Square, the Forbidden City, countless shopping malls, the Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and of course, the Great Wall. There’s nothing like Beijing in the world, and, though horribly polluted and with awful air quality, it’s still a city you have to visit in order to understand modern China and its dynamism.

4. The Great Wall of China

Stretching over 21,000 kilometers, the Great Wall offers both busy tourist sections as well as secluded ruins (you can even camp beside it in some areas). If you’re on a budget, you can take the public bus to the wall near Beijing. The bus is 12 CNY and admission to the wall is 40 CNY (45 CNY in the summer).

5. See Xi’An

Xi’an is one of the ancient capitals of China and home to the famed Terracotta Army (which is over 2,000 years old), city wall, and architecture of the Muslim quarters. Those three things are pretty much why everyone comes here but there’s also an incredible hike on Mount Hua if you’re looking for adventure.

Other Things to See and Do in China

1. tian’anmen square.

You’ve no doubt seen it in films and on TV, but it is hard to get an idea of the sheer size of this square until you’re standing square in the middle of it. There’s plenty to see here including the Tiananmen Tower, the Great Hall of the People, the People’s Heroes Monument, the National Museum and Mao Zedong’s mausoleum. While you are allowed to take photos in the square itself, you cannot use your camera in the mausoleum.

2. Gorge on food

China is a food lover’s paradise. Eating here will certainly put your take-out back home into perspective. In such a huge country, it’s no surprise that different areas have different culinary delights. It’s entirely possible to enjoy the four styles of Chinese cooking (Cantonese, Beijing, Shanghai, and Sichuan) while on your trip. For spicy food, head to Sichuan or Hunnan in Central China (be sure to try the hot pot while you’re there).

You’ll find more salty items like dried meats and pickled vegetables in the north (where fresh produce is less common) while in cities like Beijing, Hong Kong, and Shanghai you can pretty much find everything!

There are plenty of options for vegetarians in China as well, and even vegans can get by without too much difficulty.

3. Cruise the Li River

For a true sense of natural beauty, cruise down the Li River. The river is 272 miles long and has dozens of places to explore along the way. Some of the best photography spots can be found in Xiaolong, Laozhai Hill, and the karst mountains near Guilin. For tours, prices start at 500 CNY per person, depending on how long (or luxurious) of a cruise you want.

4. Visit the Forbidden City

This famous attraction in Beijing was the imperial palace from the time of the Ming Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty (1420-1912 CE). The “city” covers over 175 acres and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, welcoming over 16 million visitors each year. Today, the Palace Museum holds artifacts from both dynasties and is a great place to learn about China’s history. The buildings, which cover over 180 acres, have been heavily renovated over the years but it’s still an epic complex worth visiting.

5. Travel (part of) the Silk Road

Dating back over 2,000 years, this unofficial route is a must-see for visitors looking to get off the main tourist trail. There is no “official” road to follow, but you can trace your way along the traditional route as far and wide as you’d like (the Silk Road originally spanned from Chang’an to Romend, Italy). Its total length was over 3,800 kilometers (2,400 miles), half of which was within Chinese territory. Be sure to see the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, the ancient city of Turpan, and the Rainbow Mountains near Zhangye.

6. Explore Tibet

Also known as “the Roof of the World”, this area is perfect for adventurous travelers that are looking for unique attraction. Explore the snowy mountains, exotic customs, and Buddhism. Tibet has had tumultuous past, so during your visit, it’s wise not to bring up the Dali Lama. The region was annexed by China in the 1950s, forcing the Dalai Lama and his government into exile. Some 400,000 Tibetans were killed directly or indirectly by the occupation, with other estimates placing that number over 1 million. Avoid talking about the history and politics of the region as is it understandably a very sensitive subject for both sides. You’ll need a special permit to visit the region as well.

7. Potala Palace

This Tibetan palace was home to the Dalai Lamas up until 1959, when he was forced to flee or be killed. Established as a holy site in the 7th century, the many halls, temples, and courtyards have been constructed from wood and stone. The current building, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dates to the 17th-century and has poured copper in its foundation to stabilize it against earthquakes.

8. Take in the Karst mountains

Illustrated on the back of the 20 yuan banknote, these mountains are a stunning sight to see in person. They’re huge! You can take a boat trip down the Li River, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains. You can also rent a bicycle to explore the quieter backroads and take in the picturesque landscape. Prices begin around 20 CNY for a half day. Guilin is a great hopping-off place for this.

9. The Mogao Grottos of Dunhuang

Also known as the Thousand Buddha Caves, these grottos are home to the largest, best-preserved, and richest Buddhist art in the world—the first cave was carved here in 366 AD. There are almost 500 individual temples here and it’s one of the main stops on the Silk Road if you are tracing the footsteps of Marco Polo.

10. Take a free walking tour

All of the major cities in the country offer various types of walking tours, many of which are free and last a few hours. If you want to learn about the history of China’s major cities, this is a great way to start! Whenever I land in a new city, this is how I kick off my trip as it helps me get the lay of the land. Free walking tours are available in Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Xi’an, and many other cities around the country. Just Google “free walking tour in X” to find the companies that are available during your visit. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end (that’s how they get paid!).

11. Let loose in Macau

Macau is considered the “Las Vegas of Asia” and is a fun destination for anyone looking to splash out. Macau started as a Portuguese colony and remained one for over 300 years so the city has an interesting mix of Chinese and Portuguese cultures. Like Hong Kong, Macau is a “Special Administrative Region” which means it has a lot of autonomy from the mainland government It is also home to the highest bungee jump in the world, boasting a plunge of a whopping 233 meters (764 ft)! I don’t love the city as much as I do Hong Kong but you’ll find a lot of good food and architecture here. If you’re not here to gamble, you only really need one night here!

12. Visit the Pandas in Chengdu

Pandas are an endangered species and rare to see in the wild. If you want to get your fix while in China, head to the Panda Research Base in Chengdu. If you get there early you can beat the crowds and watch the pandas relax, eat, and sleep (that’s all they really do — but it’s still worth seeing!). Admission is 55 CNY per person.

13. Take a class

Calligraphy classes, cooking classes, tea ceremonies — you can find all sorts of amazing, culturally-enriching classes and lessons in all of the major cities in China. Some last an hour, some last multiple days, but no matter what you’re interested in you can find a class to teach you something new! Expect to pay between 300-900 CNY for a calligraphy class while cooking classes start at around 300 CNY per person. You’ll find the most options in Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. Viator.com is a great resource for finding classes near you. You can also use cookly.me to find cooking classes and prices all around the country as well.

China Travel Costs

Accommodation – Prices start at around 30 CNY for an 8-10 bed dorm in many of the smaller cities. Expect to pay closer to 85 CNY in Hong Kong and Beijing. For a private room, prices begin around 110 CNY though expect to pay almost double that in the larger cities. Hostels here are generally well equipped and have free Wi-Fi, drinking water, lockers, and even warm blankets in the winter! Hostels in cities will have western-style toilets, though in more remote parts of the country you may find squat toilets more common.

Budget hotels begin around 75 CNY per night for basic accommodations, with higher prices in Hong Kong. Budget hotels will usually include heat or AC, your own bathroom, a kettle, and TV (though you’ll only get Chinese stations). Keep in mind that any hotels offering free breakfast will likely be serving a Chinese breakfast (dumplings, rice congee, vegetables, etc.).

Airbnb is plentiful in China and can be found in all the major cities though it’s much less common in rural areas. Prices range from 175-750 CNY depending on the city and the type of apartment.

There are plenty of campgrounds around the country. Expect to pay around 20 CNY per night for a basic plot. Wild camping is a grey area; it’s both legal and illegal at the same time to allow local authorities the final say. I would avoid wild camping and stick to official campgrounds as to avoid any problems.

Food – Food in China is cheap. I mean, really cheap. A meal from a street vendor usually goes for around 7-14 CNY. For this, you might get noodles, rice, pork buns, or soup. A full meal in a sit-down restaurant will cost between 15-54 CNY plus the fee for a bowl of rice and clean bowls (yes, these cost extra!), which is often around 4 CNY. If you stick to the local food, you’ll find it hard to go broke. You could spend less than 70 CNY for an entire day’s worth of food.

In western China, southwestern China, and the interior, food is much cheaper than in the big cities and you can eat for under 35 CNY per day — about half the costs of the big cities as long as you stick to street food/local restaurants.

For Western food, you can expect to pay much higher prices for food that will be a disappointment compared to home — especially if you’re outside of the more Westernized cities like Hong Kong. A western-style sandwich or fast food meal can run about 40 CNY and a cup of coffee can be similarly-priced to back home — sometimes more!

Vegetarians and even vegans will be able to get by relatively easily in the cities with a little planning as China’s history with Buddhism has made the country quite veg-friendly.

Since food is so cheap, there’s no need to self-cater or cook your own meals. You are better off eating the street food and at the restaurants. Moreover, many hostels don’t have kitchen facilities for you to use even if you did go grocery shopping. Therefore, self-catering is not something I recommend. The food is cheap and plentiful, so enjoy it! If you will be buying your own groceries, expect to spend between 250-400 CNY depending on your diet.

Activities – In general, sights are affordable in China — even popular attractions such as the Great Wall or the Forbidden City are under 68 CNY. While the Great Wall never kept out invaders, it’s beautiful and is only 45 CNY, the Forbidden City is 60 CNY (40 CNY if you visit between November and March). Smaller temples, activities, and sights are much more reasonably priced and cost under 20 CNY.

While attractions and temples are less than 70 CNY, prices for hikes and outdoor activities tend to be more expensive, often costing around 200 CNY. For example, a trip to the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain costs around 200 CNY, a visit to the Jiuzhai Valley is also 200 CNY (as much as 2,000 CNY if you want to go as part of a tour) and a three-day pass to the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian province is 140 CNY while admission to the Yellow Mountains in Anhui province is 190 CNY. You’ll still need to pay for transportation to these places as well.

Backpacking China Suggested Budgets

How much does it cost to visit China? Here are some suggested budgets you can use to help you plan, based on your individual style of traveling. Keep in mind that if you’re staying in cities like Hong Kong, Beijing, or Shanghai you should expect to spend at least 20% more.

On a backpacker’s budget, you should plan to spend between 215-285 ($30-50 USD) per day. This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a hostel dorm, eating fast food occasionally but mainly cooking your own meals, using public transportation, and participating in basic activities like visiting museums.

On a mid-range budget of 645-1,000 CNY ($90-140 USD) per day, you can stay in budget hotels, take buses between destinations, eat fast food, and do more excursions.

For a luxury budget of 1,500 CNY ($210 USD) per day, you can afford to stay in nice hotels, take the high-speed train, do some guided tours, and eat out for every meal.

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

China Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Given the size of China as well as its general affordability thanks to cheap food and accommodation, there are plenty of ways to save money when you visit here. Here are some of the best ways to save money during your next trip:

• Use sleeper trains – Use sleeper trains (doorless compartments with bunks) to travel overnight since distances between cities can be quite large. Spending a night on the train will save you paying an extra night of accommodation. Lower bunks are less expensive, so purchase a few days in advance to take advantage of these savings. Some stations have ticket offices for foreigners if you need help navigating your options.
• Ask for Xiao Pan – If eating alone, ask for “xiao pan”. These are small portions and work out at 70% of the size and price of a normal dish.
• Hard Seats – Travel on the “hard seats” on trains or buses. These are the cheapest and most basic seats but are not “hard” as the name would lead you to believe (they’re just regular seats).
• Take a walking tour – Free walking tours are available in most Chinese cities. They generally last a couple of hours and are a great way to get the lay of the land and learn some of the local history.
• Avoid Golden Week – Golden Week is the busiest holiday of the year and is a time when the entire country is off. Held at the start of October, prices will rise, transportation is booked out weeks in advance, and the large cities are essentially gridlocked. Avoid visiting during this time. (Or, at the very least, avoid the big cities!)
• Stick to public transportation – You can get pretty much anywhere in all the major cities by bus or subway — and it’s super affordable. Do as the locals do if you want to save money.
• Buy water jugs – Instead of buying bottled water every day (as the tap water is not potable), bring a reusable water bottle and buy the biggest jugs you can find. They are only around 15 CNY and will last weeks. If you’re not staying that long, get your fellow travelers to chip in. You’ll save money and prevent more single-use plastic from ending up in a landfill. Conversely, bring a LifeStraw or SteriPen to purify your own water.

Where To Stay in China

Hostels are common all across China. Here are my recommended places to stay in the country:

• Hong Kong Hostel (Hong Kong)
• Kelly’s Courtyard (Beijing)

How to Get Around China

While most cities in China are great to discover on foot, the pollution can be quite hard on the body for extended periods. Be sure to check the air quality every morning before heading out.

Bus – Buses are generally cheaper than trains when it comes to intercity travel so they are your best bet for short distances (anything under 8-10 hours). For example, the 9-hour ride from Beijing to Anshan is around 220 CNY while the train is between going to be at least 350 CNY (and the train only saves you 90 minutes). The two-hour bus ride from Beijing to Tianjin is around 80 CNY while the trip from Shanghai to Hangzhou is 3 hours and costs around 120 CY.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Train – For long-distance travel around the country, trains are an affordable and often unique choice. On a high-speed train, the ticket from Beijing to Shanghai is around 555 CNY for 2nd class, around 935 CNY for 1st class, and around 1,800 CNY for a VIP seat. The journey takes around 4.5 hours.

For the full-day train that takes between 14-22 hours, a soft sleeper ticket is 525 CNY while a superior sleeper is 880 CNY. You can also get a regular hard sleeper seat for just 180 CNY but 22 hours in a seat is asking a lot!

The 5-6 journey ride from Beijing to Xi’an will cost 515 CNY for a second-class seat, 825 CNY for a first-class seat, and 1,630 CNY for a VIP ticket.

For overnight trains, keep in mind that the lower bunk is usually cheaper as it is closer to the noise. Top bunks will be more expensive, though they occasionally have very little space to offer (even though you pay more); it is not uncommon to be unable to sit all the way up. But you do get more privacy, which is worth it in my opinion!

Flying – There are plenty of regional carriers in China when it comes to flights. In fact, there are over 30 domestic airlines in the country! Some of the larger ones are Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, and Southwest Airlines. Just keep in mind that many flights rarely leave on time, so be mindful of your connections when booking!

Round-trip flights from Beijing to Shanghai can cost as little as 1,150 CNY for the two-hour journey.

From Beijing to Hong Kong will cost at least 900 CNY and take just under four hours. Xi’an to Shanghai will cost at least 950 CNY and take just over two hours. Beijing to Taipei will cost around 1,600 CNY and take just over three hours.

Car Rental – China does not recognize the International Driving Permit, making it virtually impossible to rent a car here unless you apply for a Chinese license. I don’t advise renting a car here.

When to Go to China

Since China is such a large country, climate and temperature change drastically from region to region. Sub-tropical Hong Kong is going to have much different weather than the steppes of Inner Mongolia or the mountain ranges of Tibet and Western China.

Summers in China (June-August) is the peak time to visit, though it also the hottest time. Temperatures will soar into the 30s (87-92 F) and can get quite humid. The pollution and air quality can also be ongoing concerns during this time. Expect inflated prices and larger crowds during these months.

September-October is a great time to visit China, as long as you can dodge the hectic Golden Week holiday in early October. The weather will cool to just under 20C (68 F), which is much more pleasant for hiking and exploring.

Traveling to China in the winter is rare, unless you’re heading to Hong Kong where the weather is still pleasant at 20C (68 F). Places like the Great Wall are occasionally closed due to weather, and regions like Tibet can drop to -13 C (9F) overnight. That being said, China has a fun winter festival called the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival where you’ll find huge, record-breaking ice sculptures.

How to Stay Safe in China

China is quite safe for travelers owing to its heavy crack down on crime and the fact that it is a full-on surveillance state. However, there are still a few things you’ll want to keep in mind to stay safe during your visit.

For starters, watch what you eat. Sanitation standards are not exactly the most stringent here, so always use hand sanitizer before you eat and make sure you only go to restaurants that appear clean. Street food — while delicious — can also cause some upset so be prepared. You may need some time to adjust to the local cuisine upon arrival.

Petty theft is rare, though you should still take precautions. Don’t flash your valuables or leave them in unsecured pockets. Most petty thefts occur when travelers don’t pay attention to their things. Don’t be one of those travelers!

As a tourist, you’ll also likely get ripped off here and there. Expect to see inflated prices often, so be sure to ask your hostel/hotel staff for price estimates in advance if you need to go to a market. While commercial supermarkets and shops won’t be an issue, local markets and small stores might try to fleece you. Be firm and barter hard when you have to.

As for scams, they are unfortunately common here. The most common is when someone approaches you and asks to practice their English with you (they are usually a “student.” You’ll head to a café, have some tea and food, and then you’ll be stuck with the bill. As a general rule, if folks ask you to practice English with them just politely decline.

Traffic in China can also be a bit of challenge. Pedestrians don’t have the right of way, so always look both ways before crossing. When in doubt, stick to the locals and follow their lead. They know what to do!

China cracks down on drug use very hard, dishing out hard labor and death penalties to anyone caught with large amounts of drugs. You may also get extorted by the police for a bribe if you’re caught with drugs, so it’s generally a good idea to avoid all drugs while you’re here.

When you’re here, you’ll also want to avoid talking politics — especially when it comes to regions like Tibet and Hong Kong. Information about these regions is highly censored and political discussions are highly monitored online. Play it safe and avoid talking politics.

Lastly, try to avoid using illegal taxis. Marked taxis will use a meter and have set prices, so stick to them (or use the ride-sharing app DiDi). When looking for a cab you’ll likely get approached by illegal taxis. Avoid them if you can unless you’re comfortable negotiating a fare and taking an illegal ride (which I don’t recommend).

Worried about travel scams? Read about these 14 major travel scams to avoid .

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

China Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

China Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on China travel and continue planning your trip:

The 23 Best Things to Do in Hong Kong

Hong Kong Itinerary: What to Do in 4 (or More) Days

My Favorite Restaurants in Hong Kong

What Hitchhiking Solo as a Female in China Taught Me

7 Lessons Learned from 3 Months in China

How to Travel the Trans-Siberian Railway

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

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China Travel Guide

China with 3,600 years of written history, is a popular destination full of profound cultures, mysterious places, and stunning sights.

Our China guide gets you closer to top travel destinations, top things to do, and a useful travel guide. We are here to make you understand China more deeply and plan a trip easier.

• Capital: Beijing (since 1271)
• Population : 1.41 billion (2021)
• Area: 9.6 million km² (3.7 million mi²)
• Location: East Asia

Top Travel Destinations in China

China has many places worth visiting, such as Beijing and Xi’an for history and cultural experience, Guilin and Zhangjiajie for natural scenery, and Shanghai for the modern part of China.

Capital of China. Historical sites

Metropolis, and exotic culture

Visa-free, Vibrant Culture

Heaven on Earth, West Lake

Venice of the East, Classic Garden

Scenic area in China. Landscapes

Top Things to Do in China

With a vast territory and rich tourism resources, China is a paradise for tourists. No matter what kind of traveler you are, you will have a great experience when traveling in China. Here, we have listed the top 6 things to do for your China tour.

The Great Wall

The Greatest Human Feat

The Giant Panda

Say Hello to Cute Pandas

The Forbidden City

Explore the Imperial's Secret

The Terracotta Army

Meet the Ancient Soldiers

The Water Town

See Chinese Traditional Elegance

The Li River

The Most Beautiful River

Useful China Travel Tips

There are so many fantastic things for tourists to explore in China. Traveling to this vast country is not as tough as you thought. We have prepared useful travel tips to help you to plan your China trip.

Best Time to Visit China

How to plan a trip to china, how to get a china visa, customize your china tour, top attractions in china, china entry and exit requirements and procedures, china travel ideas.

China has unique natural landscapes, exotic Eastern cultures, and customs, adorable giant pandas, various Chinese foods, amazing kung fu, a unique tonal and pictographic language spoken by one-fifth of the world’s population, and many other fantastic things for you to explore.

Natural Beauty

• Top Mountains in China
• Top Hot Springs Resorts in China
• Top Rivers in China

History and Culture Experience

• How to Plan a Forbidden City Tour
• How to Experience Local Life in Beijing
• Exciting Tour Experience in Modern China

Seasons Travel

• Top Summer Destinations
• Top Autumn Destinations
• Top Winter Destinations
• Top China Ski Resorts
• Top China Hiking Routes
• Top Places to Go Rafting in China

Top Recommended China Tours

The classical China tours are designed for the first-time traveler to the top destinations while involving the top hot tourist attractions.

Classic China Tour

8 Days | Beijing - Xi'an - Shanghai

China golden triangle trip is usually chosen by the first-time traveler which includes the Must-sees in China.

Glories of China

11 days | Beijing – Xi’an – Chongqing – Yangtze – Yichang – Shanghai

Explore both ancient cultures and prosperous features and relax on the Yangtze River Cruise.

Essence and Nature Wonders

11 days | Beijing - Xi'an - Guilin/Yangshuo -Shanghai

Immerse yourself in Guilin’s karst landscape and take part in some special activities to experience local cultures.

Request a custom itinerary today and get one step closer to your personalized trip

Create Your Trip

The first timer's guide to China: where to go and what to do

Recently updated on July 24th, 2023 at 10:53 am

China is a massive country filled with ancient traditions, diverse cultures, extraordinary landscapes and enormous cities. It can be overwhelming when planning your trip to China , so we’re here to help with our China travel guide. From the best things to do, to cultural norms and what to wear, here are all the things you need to know before travelling to China.

Best places to visit in China

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As the capital city of China, bustling Beijing is packed with treasures. You can go from the historic Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public space, to the ancient hutongs, the beautiful alleyways around the traditional courtyard residences. Your China travel guide will show you around it all, and even take you on a scenic rickshaw ride!

Forbidden City

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We’ll take you back in time to the Ming dynasty era when we explore the UNESCO-listed Forbidden City in Beijing. You’ll walk in the path of emperors and learn how the aptly named city was a private complex for the elite imperial families for over 500 years. Your China travel guide will reveal all the ancient traditions and history of this palace complex-turned-museum and share China’s spiritual culture at the Buddhist and Taoist shrines

EXPERIENCE IT FOR YOURSELF: Classic China

Temple of Heaven

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This stunning UNESCO-listed temple is another highlight of Beijing and we’ll take you exploring through this incredible religious complex. It’s one of the most important imperial temples in China, and one of the most remarkable examples of traditional Chinese architecture. It was designed to represent the belief that the earth is square and heaven is round.

You’ll walk in the footsteps of royalty here too. The emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties once came to the Temple of Heaven for annual ceremonies to pray for good harvests and guidance.

Great Wall of China

Hailed as one of the world’s top bucket list experiences, you can’t miss seeing the UNESCO-listed Great Wall of China . This 21,000-kilometre engineering marvel is one of the greatest feats of the Ming Dynasty. With nearly 3,000 years of history held in these stones, it’s a truly special experience.

You’ll get to walk a part of the Great Wall, taking in the lush green valleys and the incredible wall snaking for miles into the distance. As you learn the history of the wall from your local China travel guide, you’ll come to appreciate the enormous man-power it would have taken to build these fortifications so many years ago. You’ll also get to walk the Sacred Way. Here the stone statues guard the Ming Tombs and the remains of the 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty.

Xi’an

As the starting point of the ancient Silk Road trading route and the former capital of 13 dynasties, Xi’an packs a serious historic punch. We’ll show you around all it’s iconic relics, including the Great Mosque, one of the largest, oldest and best-preserved mosques in the country.

You can’t miss the UNESCO-listed Terracotta Army, with thousands of hand-moulded, life-sized warrior figures. We’ll take you to see this ancient wonder in Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s underground tomb. 

You’ll also visit a jade factory and learn how the revered stone is considered more precious than gold in China. Cycle around the ancient City Wall of Xi’an or learn the elegant art of T’ai Chi with a Local Specialist… Whatever you do, Xi’an will be unforgettable.

If you love all things cute and cuddly, you’re in for a treat in Chengdu. It’s the hometown of the giant panda, and you’ll get to visit the incredible Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding .

Your China travel guide will show you around this non-profit facility and share how they rescue these endangered pandas. Snap some adorable photos of these gorgeous bears, and leave knowing your visit made a difference to this groundbreaking centre.

But Chengdu isn’t just about pandas. We’ll also take you to the People’s Park to see the stunning Chinese gardens and teahouses, and enjoy a spot of people-watching as the locals enjoy games of mah-jong and relaxing neck massages. We’ll then switch up the pace with a visit to the vibrant Jinli Old Street. Here you’ll find all kinds of exquisite handicrafts including paintings and calligraphy. 

You’ll even have the chance to visit the Jinsha Site Museum, where you’ll discover the ancient archaeological treasures found on the Jinsha site. These precious relics date back up to 3,000 years and display the amazing skills of the Ancient Shu people. You’ll see everything from jade and gold objects, to bronze and stone tools and ivory carvings.

Shanghai is a breathtaking experience for any visitor and your China travel guide will show you the best of this dazzling city. Famed as the Paris of the East, we’ll take you down the famous trading hub, the ‘Bund’. Here, you’ll admire the elegant French colonial buildings that have sat along the waterfront since the early 1900s.

We’ll then explore the lively markets of old Shanghai and see how the locals preserve their traditional lifestyle. For something more modern, we’ll head to the top of the 88-storey Jinmao Tower. You’ll be amazed by the spectacular views over the Shanghai skyline, the most populated city in the world.

Head back down to earth and admire the antique façades and trendy boutiques and bars of the Xintiandi district. Or, enjoy a mesmerising performance by the Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe.

Zhujiajiao Water Town

Famed as the Venice of China, this ancient water town has been around for over 1,700 years. Originating as a busy market town, today it’s one of the best-preserved ancient towns in the country. We’ll take you here to marvel at the historical buildings like spice stores, rice shops, banks and a Qing Dynasty post office. 

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See the charming terrace homes dotted with red lanterns and stroll over the stone bridges that cross the canals. You can even take a paddleboat ride to see the sights from the water or indulge in the town’s famous cuisine like lotus roots, braised pork leg and homemade sweets. After lunch, you might like to relax under the old willow trees and soak up the tranquillity of the town that floats.

Top things to do in China

Cruise the beautiful yangtze river.

A Yangtze river cruise is one of the most memorable experiences you can have in China. We’ll take you to some of the most extraordinary stops on the Yangtze, including the 12-storey cliff-top temple of Shibaozhai, and the mystical shrines and monasteries of Fengdu’s ‘Ghost City’.

You’ll also sail through the Three Gorges Dam, starting with the spectacular Qutang Gorge. Then it’s Wu Gorge, with its green forests and sheer cliffs, and lastly, beautiful Xiling Gorge. Hop on board a small motorboat and cruise to the enchanting Goddess Stream, a tributary of the Yangtze. Here you’ll discover lush limestone cliffs rising out of the glowing emerald water – a truly magical experience.

EXPERIENCE IT FOR YOURSELF: Best of China with Yangtze Cruise

Enjoy the Tang Dynasty Show

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The Tang Dynasty show is the ultimate entertainment experience in China. It starts with a mouthwatering Tang dumpling banquet, followed by a performance of music and dance that originated centuries ago. You’ll be swept away in time with traditional music, vibrant choreography and dazzling costumes telling the incredible story of the Tang Dynasty.

Learn the art of making dumplings

You can’t miss tasting the scrumptious dumplings of China and we’ll show you how to make your own at a local restaurant. After watching a dumpling-making demonstration, including fried, steamed and boiled dumplings, you’ll get to enjoy them for lunch. Yum!

RELATED CONTENT: 6 local and immersive food experiences you can do with Trafalgar in China

Enjoy a foot massage at the Foot Reflexology Centre

Feeling a little weary after all your travel adventures? There’s no better remedy than a Chinese massage. We’ll show you where to go for a soothing foot reflexology session, where you can kick back, relax and feel your qi energy come alive.

Spend an evening at the Sichuan Opera

You’re in for a spectacular evening at the Shufeng Yayun Sichuan Opera House in Chengdu. The dazzling Sichuan opera performance features many different shows including a puppet show, fire spitting, a comedy act and the famous face changing show. With live music and traditional Chinese instruments bringing the courtyard setting to life, this will be an evening to remember.

Learn about China’s tea-making ritual s

Tea making is one of the most important traditions in China. We’ll take you to a teahouse where your China travel guide will share the history of tea-making. You’ll also get to learn how to prepare and serve authentic Chinese tea, and sample some of the warming brews yourself.

Watch the Legend of Kung Fu Show

We’ll take you to the Red Theatre in Beijing to see the Legend of Kung Fu, a show of traditional martial arts, dazzling dance and acrobatics. Performed by incredible Kung Fu artists with an average age of just 17, you’ll learn the story of a young boy who dreams of becoming a true master of Kung Fu. You’ll be amazed by the graceful moves, fearless acrobatics, and the beautiful story of a child overcoming his fears.

Learn how to cook Sichuan cuisine in Chengdu

Sichuan cuisine is famed for its rich spices and you’ll learn how to wield these bold flavours when we take you to a cooking class at the Museum of Sichuan Cuisine. Your local chef will show you the ancient kitchenware and cookbooks, then teach you how to crush chilli into powder using a historic Qing Dynasty pestle and mortar.

You’ll dive into your culinary creations with a local chef on hand every step of the way. And of course, you’ll get to enjoy your delicious meal for lunch, and leave feeling totally satisfied in both stomach and soul.

Things to know before travelling to China

China is a land of ancient traditions and customs, and it’s important to travel this incredible country with an open mind. Here are some of our top China travel tips to help you prepare for your adventure.

Apply for your Chinese visa early

Unless you’re from Japan, Singapore or Brunei, you’ll need a visa to stay in China for over 72 hours. The process for getting a tourist visa differs between countries, but you’ll likely need to visit your local Chinese consulate. Prepare for the visa process to take around a month or more. 

Once you’re in China, make sure you keep a photocopy of your passport and visa everywhere you go. You’ll need it when checking in to hotels, and it’s best to have identification on you at all times.

Get camera ready

The Chinese love to take photos! China welcomes millions of international travellers every year but many people are still fascinated by new faces, so don’t be surprised if a local asks to take a photo with you. If you’re the one taking the photos, always ask permission before snapping a photo of someone. You should also never take photos of government buildings or officials.

Personal space

With a population of around 1.4 billion, China is a very crowded place. Most locals are used to having less personal space and it’s common to experience jostling or queue jumping. The best thing to do is be patient and remember it’s the cultural differences that make each country unique.

Spitting in China

In China, it isn’t considered rude to burp or spit in public. In fact, burping after eating is a sign you enjoyed the meal, and the locals prefer to spit to clear their noses instead of using tissues. You might be a bit shocked at first, but remember that the Chinese are just as confronted when visitors blow their nose in a handkerchief and put it back in their pocket!

You don’t need to tip in China

Tipping culture doesn’t exist in China, and you should never leave cash tips on the table. 

Haggle at the markets – but not in stores

If you’re shopping at the local Chinese markets, you’ll need to learn the art of haggling. Save the bargaining if you’re in a shop with price tags however, as it’s considered rude.

Don’t drink the tap water

Most locals don’t drink the tap water in China and you shouldn’t either as it can make you sick. Always drink bottled water or, ideally, bring your own reusable bottle and fill it up at water filter stations. You can often find these at your hotels.

Bring toilet paper and hand sanitiser

Squat toilets are the norm in China and most bathrooms do not provide toilet paper, except for hotels and nicer restaurants. It’s a good idea to carry a roll of toilet paper or some tissues, and a bottle of hand sanitiser.

What to wear in China

When travelling in China, you can generally wear whatever you normally wear back home – with a few exceptions.

Religious sites

When visiting temples and holy sites, you should wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. You may also need to remove your shoes before entering a temple or sacred site. If you’re not sure, watch what the locals do or ask your China travel guide.

Dress for the weather

China has four distinct seasons that vary across the regions, from sweltering heat to icy snow. Check the weather forecast before your trip, and pack clothes to keep you comfortable.

Conservative clothing

While the locals in the major cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Xi’an are very fashionable and less conservative, they still generally show less skin, so it’s best to leave the short shorts at home. If you’re travelling to rural areas, it’s more important to wear modest clothing with not much skin showing.

Walking shoes

From wandering the Great Wall to exploring the big cities, you’re sure to do a lot of walking in China. It’s best to bring a comfortable pair of shoes that have already been broken in. The last thing you want is blisters!

Many of the largest cities in China, like Beijing and Shanghai, have problems with smog and air pollution. Do as the locals do and wear a face mask on days with bad air pollution. 

Are you dreaming of a trip to China? Do you have any China travel tips to share? Let us know in the comments below!

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40 China travel tips for 2024 (I swear by every one)

Posted by Mike Cairnduff | Updated February 2, 2024 | China blog , Travel

I’ve heard some pretty lousy China travel tips before.

“Bring an inflatable travel pillow”, the so-called experts will insist.

Clearly, they’ve never been to China before.

Having visited practically every corner of the country, let me share with you my best China travel tips.

There are 40 of them for you to enjoy!

Jump to section:

1. Never leave your hotel without toilet paper

Public toilets like these do not have toilet paper. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

You won’t find toilet paper in most Chinese toilets , let alone hot water to wash your hands with.

So, bring toilet paper with you wherever you go, unless you’re going on a luxury tour (and even then, you can’t guarantee it).

2. Always carry hand sanitizer with you

This ties in with number 1. Washing your hands with only cold water, and no soap, doesn’t kill all the germs.

That’s why I recommend carrying a small bottle of hand sanitizer along with your toilet tissue.

3. Pack the right way

Don’t forget the essentials for China. Image by Pixel-Shot on Shutterstock.

No, I don’t mean squeeze everything neatly into those pointless packing cubes.

I mean check out my super-duper packing list for China which outlines everything you should and shouldn’t bring.

If you have an extra-large body, it’ll be hard finding clothes in China that fit, so try not to forget anything.

4. Have your translation app ready

The language barrier in China is real. So, choose a translation app (like Google Translate) and make sure you know how to use it before you arrive.

Find out if you can access it offline while you’re touring, or whether you need a data connection.

The article on China travel apps will help.

5. Get a VPN before you go

If you want to use Wi-Fi in your hotel in China, and not burn through money using data on your own phone plan, you need a VPN in China.

A virtual private network (VPN) is essential to access most major websites, apps, and social media.

Here’s my review of the best ones in China (don’t get a crappy one – it won’t work). Or, if you’re pressed for time, go straight to the one I recommend here:

You need to download it to your devices before you go, not after you arrive in China or it won’t work.

6. Don’t bring a water bottle

Sorry, you’ll need to leave your environmental consciousness in your own country.

Chinese tap water isn’t safe to drink, so unless you want to fill up your bottle with boiled water (which is a pain in the backside), leave your bottle at home.

There are oodles of public water-filling stations across China, but in most cases the water is boiling or warm . Chinese people don’t like drinking cold water.

So, most foreign travelers buy bottled water in China. And hotels usually give you two free bottles per day.

7. Set up digital payments

Cash is barely used in China anymore. Image by Saelanlerez on Shutterstock.

The locals don’t use cards, and cash is almost extinct too.

Everyone uses payment apps – mostly WeChat Pay and Alipay. You can too by downloading one or both of the apps and linking your international bank card.

If you’re uncomfortable handing over your personal details including your passport details (as part of the registration process), you’ll need to use cash in China.

But this will be a pain, as many merchants don’t accept 100 yuan notes, and that’s all the ATMs spit out here. So, bring some low denomination cash (yuan) with you.

I highly recommend using Alipay or WeChat Pay though. It will make life so much easier.

See also: How to count money in Chinese

8. Don’t try to avoid crowds

It’s impossible. Everywhere is crowded in China, unless you’re in the middle of nowhere.

The only thing you can do is get to a tourist attraction just when it opens, or around midday when the hordes of Chinese tourists go off for lunch.

But even then, there’s no guarantee there won’t be other tourists.

When booking flights, tours and hotels , avoid the peak season which is during Chinese New Year and all the national Chinese holidays, which you can look up here .

9. Don’t forget your passport

This might sound silly at first, but it’s not.

You need to show your passport to get into any tourist attraction, as well as to buy and ride the high-speed trains.

The Chinese do the same, but they use their national ID card.

No ID? No entry.

10. Bring a travel adapter/converter

This international travel adapter has saved me a number of times in China. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

Officially, the country runs on 220 V and appliances should have two or three angled prongs.

But there is no consistency among hotels, and you need to make sure you can charge your devices.

That’s why it’s a good idea to bring a travel adapter with all the variations, including the Hong Kong connection (UK type) if you’re heading there too.

Make sure your adapter is a converter too, if you’re from a country like the US which isn’t on 220 V.

11. Don’t tip unless you’re on a private tour (and it’s amazing)

Chinese people don’t tip as it’s not part of their culture. So, why should you?

If you really want to tip, then do it on a foreigners-only private tour where you received mind-blowingly great service.

There are some money-hungry guides on these foreigner tours and they will openly talk about tips.

12. Avoid coach tours

Speaking of tours, don’t go on those cheap and nasty big bus tours, e.g. to the Great Wall of China.

They’ll take you to the busiest, tourist section of the wall, which is Badaling.

You’ll be pressed for time too, because the guides will insist on taking you to a silk or tea factory where they make a commission on purchases.

And afterwards, they’ll take you to a huge hall for lunch where you’ll eat average, unauthentic food among hundreds of other noisy tourists.

Check out this page for travel tips specific to the nation’s capital, Beijing.

13. Try to visit smaller cities

I find people are friendlier in small cities too. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love most of the major cities.

Take Beijing, for example, which is jam-packed with culture and history .

There’s so much to do there, like visiting the enormous Forbidden City, pretty Summer Palace, and the infamous Tiananmen Square.

But, you really should take the time to visit some of the lesser-known cities, where you’ll still find amazing attractions, tasty local food, and interesting things to do.

Plus, there are significantly fewer tourists, if that matters to you.

My new favorite Chinese city is Yinchuan. It’s a northern desert city that has incredible things to do , and not many foreigners venture there.

There are also lots of incredible places in Southern China, especially Yunnan and Guangxi provinces.

I recommend starting in a nice modern city like Kunming or Nanning and then exploring from there.

14. Turn a blind eye to the spitting and coughing in your face

A lot has been written about this on The Helpful Panda (including an article I dedicated to it here ), so I won’t go into too much detail now.

All I’ll say is this – if you venture out of the big tourist centers, you’ll experience people spitting right at your feet, and coughing up their lungs without covering their mouth.

The deeper you get into China’s smaller cities, the worse it gets. Try to ignore it, if you can.

The article on tips for your first time in China may help you.

15. Wear dark running shoes

The ideal shoes for China. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

Chinese streets are dirty, and your lovely clean shoes won’t be so lovely and clean within a few days of traveling.

My advice – bring black or dark colored walking shoes.

I’ve written a whole guide on what to wear in China if you need help.

16. Buy comprehensive travel insurance

Medical care is expensive in China.

If you’re hit by a car (many Chinese drivers don’t obey pedestrian zebra crossings), and you need to be hospitalized, you could be up for a small fortune. The Chinese government won’t foot the bill.

You can read my guide on medical insurance for China which talks more about this.

17. Don’t expect to learn any Chinese on a short trip

At most, you’ll learn “ni hao” (hello) and “bai bai” (bye bye).

It’s a really hard language to learn , and most foreigners who can speak the lingo have studied it for years, or have lived in China (or both).

As I mentioned earlier, have your translation app ready!

If you do want to learn some survival Mandarin before you arrive in China, I recommend LTL for online classes. They also have schools in China.

You can get my discount for LTL here .

18. Visit the Big Three

I highly recommend a trip to the Terracotta Army in Xi’an. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

If you want to see the most famous places on your trip to China, then head to:

• The Great Wall near Beijing – it’s bloody amazing
• The Terracotta Army in Xi’an – it’s also bloody amazing
• Panda sanctuary in Chengdu – the big fluff balls are bloody amazing.

The only challenge is these three cities are nowhere near each other. If you only have time to visit two of the best places, I suggest the first two.

19. Land in Shanghai

Shanghai is a good choice for first-time travelers. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

If you’re prone to culture shock, fly into Shanghai as your starting point.

It’s China’s most cosmopolitan city, and it’s where you’ll find all the creature comforts and many people can speak English there too.

After a few days, you’ll be a China pro and you can go on to tackle Beijing and the rest.

Check out  this page for travel tips specific to Shanghai.

20. Finish in Hong Kong

If you want to visit Hong Kong , do it on the way home, i.e. make it your last stop.

This is because you’ll most likely have a single-entry visa to mainland China, and so once you leave the mainland and enter HK, you would have to apply for another visa if you wanted to get back into the mainland.

Alternatively, you could make Hong Kong your very first stop on your China trip.

21. Get your tour guide’s recommendations on food

Constantly hound your tour guide for the best food and restaurant recommendations.

If you don’t, you could end up in those big soulless food halls en route to the attractions.

Chinese food is incredibly diverse and delicious, and it’s nothing like the Chinese food you eat back home.

Whether you’re into meat, vegies, spicy food, street food or yummy desserts , you’ll be spoiled for choice.

22. Get your visa sorted early

Unless you’re exempt from needing a visa, such as you qualify for Visa Free Transit, then you’ll need a  China tourist visa .

The process can take time, so don’t leave it to the last minute.

23. Avoid the no-frills Chinese airlines

Yuck. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

The Chinese aren’t known for their great service, and this is very true when it comes to Chinese airlines.

You can do what I’ve done and fly with a budget carrier for a low price (and a horrible experience) or fork out a few more dollars for a better carrier.

Otherwise, you could stick with a homegrown carrier that you know and love, which might be even more expensive.

Every time I go to China, I say to myself “Must fly with Qantas” but then somehow, I get swayed by the worse, cheaper option! Ahhh…

The largest Chinese airlines are China Southern, Air China, and China Eastern (and I would rank them in that order for service).

If you want to see how terrible their airlines can be, read my Beijing Capital Airlines review .

24. Entertain yourself

Some of the Chinese airlines, especially the smaller ones, have limited English movies on board. Or, the movies are really, really bad.

If you’re the kind of person who gets bored on long-haul flights, make sure you’ve got other ways to entertain yourself.

Some ideas:

• A tablet or laptop loaded with lots of movies and shows
• A book – physical or e-reader
• Music, magazines, games and playing cards.

Having some stuff to entertain yourself is especially important if you’re traveling solo .

See also: How long does it take to get to China?

25. Be wary of anyone that approaches you

Chinese people are curious and will stare at you. And in rural areas, they won’t stare, they will gawk.

However, they’re also generally shy and won’t be comfortable approaching you, as they don’t like making mistakes when they speak English .

This means they will leave you alone, which is great (especially for an introvert like me!).

So, if someone approaches you and invites you somewhere using great English, be extremely careful.

Unfortunately, there are some well-known tourist scams and I’d hate you to get caught out!

They almost always involve being invited to a place where you have to cough up an insane amount of money.

The most common one is known as the tea ceremony scam .

While I haven’t fallen for the tea ceremony trick yet, little old me has been scammed in China.

I was 19 at the time, and I had just flown into Pudong Airport in Shanghai.

An impeccably dressed man approached me. He said to follow him for a taxi (at this point, the alarm bells should have gone off, but I was young and naive).

He took me to a private car, locked my suitcase in the trunk, and then told me the exorbitant amount I owed the driver to get to my destination.

I was shattered.

But it was a good lesson learned. Now, if anyone approaches me in China, it’s an instant “no”, regardless.

26. Leave your boob tube at home

The local girls usually wear flowy and loose clothing , particularly when it comes to tops.

By all means, you can wear tight-fitting and revealing tops, but just be aware that men may leer at you.

The females I’ve traveled with have hated this. And I don’t blame them – they’ve even been filmed.

I’ve written a whole article on what to not to wear in China if you’re keen to learn more.

Spoiler alert: There aren’t too many things I recommend against wearing. China is fairly relaxed when it comes to clothing.

27. Have your hotel address handy

Multi-lingual directions are the best. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

I strongly recommend having your accommodation address on your phone in Chinese characters.

I always have it written down too, just in case my phone dies or I can’t bring up the information.

Without it, your taxi or Didi (China’s Uber) driver won’t know where to go. The name of the hotel won’t be enough, as Chinese cities are huge and there are countless places to stay.

28. Bring masks

Even though you don’t need to wear masks in China for COVID-19 anymore, it’s worth bringing a few in case you’re traveling around China and there’s a bad season of flu.

As I mentioned earlier, China is a crowded place and many people don’t cover their mouth when they cough and sneeze.

You could also invest in a proper anti-pollution mask if you’re headed for China’s smaller cities where the pollution can be nasty .

29. Travel in your preferred season

Most so-called China travel experts will tell you to come in spring or fall, regardless.

My advice is to travel in the season that you prefer. I personally prefer cold weather over hot weather, so I’d never aim to arrive in China in the middle of July.

Equally, tourist attractions aren’t as busy in the winter season (except during Lunar New Year), which is definitely an advantage to travel in this season.

Of course though, the best time to come in terms of pleasant or moderate weather is early spring or autumn .

But it’s ultimately your choice – the Chinese will welcome you (and your fat wallet) in any season.

30. Catch the train

China’s high-speed train network is insanely good. It’s clean, modern, and trains run perfectly on time.

Usually, it’s cheaper to take the train than fly domestically if your cities are relatively close. Plus, some of the high-speed train stations are connected to the city’s underground subway network.

So, it makes getting to your final destination easier and cheaper.

There are both first- and second-class carriages on the bullet trains. The difference is first-class passengers have more room – both legroom and chair width.

I’ve traveled on both first and second. If you have the money, I say go first-class (but I’m tall and I appreciate the extra room, so I’m probably a bit biased).

You can buy high-speed train tickets for China here .

31. Take extra care on the roads

A shared path in Nanjing spells danger. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

I touched on this point earlier.

Chinese drivers are a law unto themselves and zebra crossings are not necessarily safe. Try to cross the road in a large group, or tailgate someone.

And it sounds silly to say, but look in every direction when you cross the road. Vehicles don’t follow the rules you’re used to like, like obeying one-road streets.

But even if you play it super safe, you’ll have to watch for the electric scooters which are allowed to speed down the sidewalk.

32. Try to let things go

You’ll experience people cutting the queue right in front of you, and you may think people aren’t respecting your personal space.

This is China, and personal space doesn’t really exist.

If you can, try to let it go. It’s definitely not personal.

This is easier said than done (but if you’re living in China , you might get used to it).

33. Master chopsticks

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dW0Js2QpTPc Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: How to use chopsticks – 3 tips you should know (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dW0Js2QpTPc)

Well, not really master them, but at least try and get used to them before you arrive.

You won’t find knives and forks at restaurants in China, unless you happen to stumble upon a steak restaurant.

You can buy cute little travel cutlery sets if the thought of using chopsticks gives you nightmares.

34. Choose your restaurant wisely

Lots of restaurants in China have photos of the food, either on the board or in the printed menu.

This makes it so easy for foreign travelers. You simply point at the dish you want.

If you’re a fussy eater, or you really want to make sure you’re not eating something gross , then pull out your translation app.

35. Prepare for spice

My friend struggling with all that spicy food! Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

Chinese food is God damn spicy!

While big cities like Chongqing and Chengdu in Sichuan province are known for their spicy dishes , I’ve found that restaurants in so many other places love serving up food that burns your mouth.

Tell the waiter “Bù yào là” (不要辣) and the chef will go easy on the chili. If you’re not confident saying that, just show them on your translation app.

Just note they won’t always follow your instructions. Sometimes the chef will insist that at least a bit of chili is included. I’ve been served bright red broth even though I said no chili.

36. Get your jabs

The only mandatory vaccination for China is yellow fever. But this only applies if you’re arriving from a country known for the disease.

This means there are no mandatory vaccinations for most people, including those flying directly to China from the USA , UK, Europe and Australia.

However, there are some recommended vaccinations for all travelers, as outlined here .

I also suggest staying away from animals, even stray dogs and cats. I’ve been scratched by a feral cat in China. The last thing you want is rabies!

37. Bring multiple cards, and tell your bank

It’s a big risk if you only bring one ATM card to China. You could lose it, or a machine could swallow it up.

I always bring multiple cards when I’m traveling to China. Even when I’m flying there, I put one card in my locked suitcase, while the others are in my wallet.

This is just in case I lose my wallet. It’s happened before.

I’ve traveled with friends in China – some of whom have only come with one card – and they’ve had to rely on me when they left their card in the ATM!

Also, tell your bank you’re visiting China, because they could put a block on your card if they see all the Chinese transactions (and yep, that’s happened to me before too).

38. Consider your SIM card

If you need or want to make phone calls from China back to your country, do a little research before you arrive.

Here are some options:

• Use your phone like you normally would – by far the most expensive option
• See if your phone company has an option to make cheaper calls while you travel
• Buy a travel SIM before you go, and put it in your phone (your phone must be unlocked)
• Buy a local SIM in China (your phone must be unlocked) – a good option if you’re in China for a while.

I recommend using a messaging app like WhatsApp , which you can use for free by using your hotel’s Wi-Fi.

Just remember to get your VPN before you arrive, as there are issues using messaging apps in China without a VPN.

39. Haggle at markets

Always bargain at markets like these. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

Chinese people are born hagglers, and never accept the first price they’re given in places like markets.

If you’re not happy with the price, simply walk away and the merchant will usually come chasing.

Don’t worry if you can’t speak a word of Mandarin, the merchant will show you the price on their phone’s calculator.

40. Travel respectfully

It goes without saying, but don’t be an idiot when you travel.

Be respectful of the local Chinese culture , and don’t say anything controversial about the Chinese government.

And, just like you would in other countries, be respectful if you’re entering holy places. So, keep quiet and don’t take photos of monks.

If you’re headed somewhere like Xinjiang and want to step into a mosque, you’ll need to take your shoes off.

They’re my China travel tips, all wrapped up for 2024

Wow, that was quite the list, wasn’t it? I hope it didn’t overwhelm you.

At the end of the day, as long as you’ve got your passport, wallet and phone, then you’ll be able to do anything you want.

And whatever you do, don’t forget your VPN. See your options here or tap on the button below.

Let me know in the comments if you have any helpful suggestions of your own.

You’re going to have a great time!

I hope you learned a thing or two from my list of China travel tips. Now check out the best China travel apps so you’re digitally ready to go.

Main image credit: Supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

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Faq about my traveling to china tips, do i need a china travel vaccine.

The only mandatory vaccination for China is yellow fever, but it only applies if you’re arriving from a country known for the disease. This means there are no mandatory vaccinations for most people who visit China. However, some vaccines (e.g. typhoid, malaria) are recommended depending on where you’re going in China, as well as the kind of activities you plan on doing there.

How do I get a China travel visa?

Many countries now have a China Visa Service Center they can attend in person, or by applying through the post. For countries that don’t have a service center (e.g. USA), you need to apply at your nearest Chinese embassy in person or via a visa agent.

China travel: is it safe?

Yes, China is very safe for foreign tourists, especially when compared to other countries. China has a really low crime rate, and crimes against foreigners are practically unheard of. There’s an insane amount of surveillance cameras in China, too.

Can you travel China without a guide?

Yes, you can. The only exception is Tibet in Western China, where you need to be on a group tour. This is due to the historic sensitivities regarding Tibet.

Commercial relationship disclosure: The Helpful Panda has commercial arrangements with organizations that may appear on this page, such as affiliate links. See our terms for more info.

Mike Cairnduff

Mike has lived and worked in China, and has traveled extensively across the country. He loves Chinese food and has a keen interest in Chinese culture. You can follow him on X and LinkedIn .

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China Travel Guide

Your ultimate china travel guide, with tips, ideas on things to do, and best things to see in china. great for first-time & returning travelers..

China is a country filled with unexpected surprises.

The warm welcome from the people, the beauty of the landscape and the sheer size and scope of the cities has made China one of the PlanetD’s favorite destinations. 

This China travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

Popular City Guides

Our highlight.

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about China

• Chinese power voltage is 220 V 50Hz;  Plug A, I & G.
• The currency is the Chinese Yuan and is around 6.07 CNY to 1 USD. Check  current rates here.
• Toilet paper is rarely found in public restrooms; carry your own sanitary napkins just in case nature calls.
• The internet is censored in China. You need a  VPN  to use most social media sites.
• KnowRoaming

Things to See and Do in China

• Hike the Great Wall of China  – take a different tour and enjoy a hike along the Great Wall of China
• Bamboo Rafting Down the Li River  – a visit to the Yangshuo would not be complete without a bamboo cruise on the Li River.
• Fine Your Inner Chef at Yangshuo Cooking School – learn about Chinese cooking and gain a new appreciation for their fine cuisine.
• Try Hot Cupping…. If you Dare  – originating in China, hot cupping is meant to draw out toxins from the body and muscles.
• Visit Tiananmen Square  –  walk around the world’s largest public square, the location of the infamous 1989 massacre.
• Visit the Venice of the East and tour the canals of Suzhou.

China Travel Guides

• Best Things to do in Beijing
• Things to do in Hong Kong
• 13 Things to do in Nanjing China
• 25 Things to do in Suzhou
• Top Things to Do in Shanghai
• Things to do in China

Accommodation

Budget:  You can get a hostel in China starting at $15 USD. This often includes a shared room, shared bathroom, and lounge area.

Mid Range:  Mid-range hotels in China start at $75 USD. They may include free breakfast, a pool, and family suites.

High End:  Luxury hotels in China start at $150 USD per night. They usually include a restaurant, bar, and airport transportation.

Dumplings  – These are a popular food found on both the street and in restaurants filled with beef or chicken.

Chow mein  – This is a stir-fry noodle dish mixed with sauce, onion, celery, and meat.

Peking duck  – Peking duck is considered one of the national dishes in China and has thin and crispy skin.

Wontons  – Wontons are another common food you’ll see people eating as a snack or appetizers and are filled with shrimp or pork.

The Best Ways to Get Around China

Getting to china:.

Many flights fly directly to major hubs in China including Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Guangzhou.

You can check for the best flights to China on  Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Transportation:  Getting around China is best by flying or taking high-speed trains. China is a huge country, but it has a very efficient train system.

High-speed trains run through cities from Shanghai to Nanjing, Suzhou, and Beijing.

Buses/Metro : Cities in China have very efficient subway systems and are the best way to get around. They are easy to follow and well signed in English. Be sure to have small bills on your as machines only give change in small denominations. See ourvideos of  Beijing  ,  Shanghai,  and  Hong Kong  to watch how to use the subway system.

Taxis:   Taxis are reasonable and efficient in China, but be sure to have a card with your hotel’s name and address on it written in Mandarin.

Always carry your hotel’s business card to get back to your location. Taxi drivers will not understand where you want to go.

Uber:  Uber is not in China.

When to go To China

• The best times to visit China are May through June and September through October. That’s when you’ll find the most pleasant weather, as parts of China can have blistering winters and sizzling summers.
• However, we have visited China in November and it was great. The skies were clear and it was cold in Beijing. but if you dress for it, you will be great.

Where to Stay in China

Shangri-La Hotel   – This Beijing hotel is a beautiful place to stay when you’re traveling. The hotel has a spacious pool, plush beds, and floor-to-wall windows so you’ll have a view of the city.

SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai  – This hotel is conveniently located within a few minute’s walk to the nearest train station, so it’s a breeze getting around. They also have family suites, blackout curtains, a rooftop terrace, and even a nail salon.

Fraser Suites Shenzhen  – We stayed at the luxurious Grand Mansion Nanjing. There is an indoor swimming pool, spa, and gym complete with a boxing ring! Check out reviews and rates on  TripAdvisor

China Accommodation Guides

What to pack for china.

China is one of the largest countries in the world. Given its size, the climate is extremely diverse ranging from tropical regions to a subarctic climate in the north.

The type of clothing you pack depends on the season and also the intended region of travel.

The Northern regions tend to have hot summers and chillingly cold winters while southern China tends to be wetter and milder.

• Layers  – The general rule of thumb is to pack at least four layers: a base layer, long sleeve shirts, a fleece (mid-layer) and a top layer such as a windbreaker (waterproof!). Base layers should be made of wool or synthetic fabrics as they often offer superior moisture-wicking and temperature control protection than cotton.
• Avoid White  – smog is a big issue in many Chinese cities so this means that white clothes get dirty quicker than normal.
• Avoid Jumpsuits (or tight pants) – squat toilets are quite common in particular Chinese areas. As a result, wearing any form of tight pants or jumpsuits will make a travelers trip to the bathroom infinitely more difficult.
• Tampons  – tampons aren’t easy to find in China and unless you are a fan of pads than makes sure to stock up before you go on your trip.

China Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

China Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about China  click here.

26 Things to do in Suzhou China – All You Need to Know Before you Go

13 Things to do in Nanjing China – A Complete Guide to the Ancient Capital

24 Top Things to Do in Shanghai, China

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The Ultimate China Travel Guide: Unlocking China’s Splendors

China, a country of immense beauty and captivating diversity, is a destination that promises to leave you with an indelible impression on every traveler. With its rich tapestry of ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and modern marvels, this vast nation offers something for every type of adventurer.

In this blog, I will share with you the ultimate China Travel Guide to assist you in uncovering the most unforgettable experiences that this extraordinary country has to offer.

Find the best time to visit China, plan your trip, explore top destinations, and budget for your adventure to make the most out of your trip to China!

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

The Ultimate China Travel Guide: How to Plan a Trip to China

A trip to China can be an exciting adventure, as it offers you a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and historical marvels. However, to make the most of your journey and avoid unnecessary hiccups, thorough planning is essential.

But why should you put so much effort on planning this trip? Thorough planning is essential for a successful trip to diverse China as it:

• It maximizes your overall experience.
• It eases communication with locals.
• Planning simplifies the visa application process.
• It helps in optimizing your budget for the trip.
• It also allows customization of your visit to match your interests.

Step-by-Step Guide on Trip Planning

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan your trip to China effectively:

Determine Your Travel Goals: Identify the regions and attractions you want to explore, whether it’s the Great Wall of China, the Terracotta Army, or the bustling streets of Beijing.

Set a Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on your trip and allocate funds for different expenses such as flights, accommodations, food, and activities accordingly.

Check Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, China’s visa requirements may vary. Research and apply for the appropriate visa well in advance.

Choose the Best Time to Visit: China experiences different climates in different regions. Consider the weather and your preferred travel dates when deciding the best time to visit.

Book Flights: Search for flights to China, compare prices, and book your tickets. Major international airports like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou are common entry points.

Accommodation: Research and book your accommodations, considering your budget and preferred location. Options range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels.

Create an Itinerary: Plan your daily activities and sightseeing. Include popular attractions, local experiences, and time for relaxation.

Learn About Local Culture: Familiarize yourself with Chinese customs and etiquette, which can enhance your travel experience.

Pack Smart: Pack suitable clothing and essential items for your trip, considering the weather and activities.

Stay Informed: Keep an eye on travel advisories and any specific travel restrictions or health-related guidelines related to China, especially if you’re traveling during unusual times.

By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared for your adventure in China and can focus on immersing yourself in the country’s wonders!

Tips on Visas, Flights, and Accommodations

• Visas: Check the Chinese embassy or consulate website for the most up-to-date visa requirements. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date.
• Flights: Use flight comparison websites or apps to find the best deals on airfare. Be flexible with your travel dates to potentially score lower prices.
• Accommodations: Consider booking your accommodations through trusted platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com , or directly through hotels’ websites. Read reviews and select lodgings that cater to your preferences.

Best Time to Visit and Travel Restrictions

Here is a complete guide covering all the seasons:

Spring in China

Spring in China is a beautiful time to visit, with landscapes bursting into bloom. The weather is mild and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. This makes it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and visiting temples and gardens!

Some of the best places to visit in China during the spring include:

• Beijing : The Forbidden City, the Great Wall of China, and the Temple of Heaven are all must-see attractions in Beijing. During the spring, the city’s parks and gardens are also in full bloom.
• Shanghai : Shanghai is a vibrant city with a lot to offer visitors. In the spring, you can enjoy the city’s many parks and gardens, visit the Bund waterfront, or take a boat trip on the Huangpu River.
• Xi’an : Xi’an is home to the Terracotta Warriors, one of the most amazing archaeological discoveries of all time. In the spring, you can also visit the city’s many temples and mosques, or take a day trip to Mount Huashan, a sacred mountain known for its challenging hiking trails.
• Guilin : Guilin is known for its stunning scenery, including limestone karsts, rivers, and lakes. In the spring, you can take a boat cruise on the Li River to see the karsts up close, or visit the nearby town of Yangshuo for its laid-back atmosphere and scenic bike trails.

Summer in China

Summer in China can be hot and humid, especially in the south. Average temperatures range from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius, with high humidity levels. However, there are still many things to see and do in China during the summer, such as visiting beaches, hiking in the mountains, and attending festivals!

Some of the best places to visit in China during the summer include:

• Sanya : Sanya is a popular beach resort town in southern China. In the summer, you can enjoy the city’s many beaches, go swimming, snorkeling, or diving.
• Lijiang : Lijiang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved ancient town. In the summer, you can enjoy the town’s many canals and bridges, or take a day trip to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
• Harbin : Harbin is the capital of Heilongjiang province in northeastern China. It is known for its cold winters and its annual International Ice and Snow Festival.

Autumn in China

Autumn is another beautiful time to visit China. The weather is mild and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. The leaves on the trees turn red and yellow, creating stunning scenery throughout the country.

Some of the best places to visit in China during the autumn include:

• Beijing : The Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven are especially beautiful in the autumn, when the leaves on the trees turn red and yellow.
• Jiuzhaigou National Park : Jiuzhaigou National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning lakes, waterfalls, and forests. In the autumn, the park’s leaves turn red and yellow, creating a magical landscape.
• Huangshan Mountain : Huangshan Mountain is a sacred mountain in Anhui province. It is known for its towering granite peaks, pine trees, and clouds. In the autumn, the mountain’s leaves turn red and yellow, creating a breathtaking sight.

Winter in China

Winter in China can be very cold, especially in the north. Average temperatures range from -10 to 5 degrees Celsius, with snowfall common in many parts of the country. However, there are still many things to see and do in China during the winter, such as skiing, visiting hot springs, and attending festivals!

Some of the best places to visit in China during the winter include:

• Harbin : Harbin is known for its cold winters and its annual International Ice and Snow Festival. During the festival, you can see giant ice sculptures, snow castles, and ice slides.
• Yabuli Ski Resort : Yabuli Ski Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in China. It is located in Heilongjiang province and offers a variety of ski trails for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
• Guilin : Guilin is also a popular winter destination, as the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists than in the summer.

No matter what time of year you choose to visit China, you are sure to have a memorable experience!

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in China

1. the great wall of china.

First on this list is The Great Wall of China , an architectural marvel that is etched into history. It beckons you to embark on an awe-inspiring journey through time. Located in northern China, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance.

You must visit here to experience the majestic allure of China’s rich history and resilience. Visiting this iconic structure allows you to walk in the footsteps of emperors and soldiers, offering a profound connection to the nation’s past.

The main attractions you must visit along the Great Wall include popular sections like Badaling, Mutianyu, and Jinshanling, each with its unique features and scenic vistas. You can hike along the wall, explore watchtowers, and capture breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape!

Best Time To Visit The Great Wall of China: The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes burst with color. To avoid the crowds, consider weekdays and early mornings for a more serene experience.

2. The Terracotta Army

Next is the Terracotta Army , an archaeological wonder nestled in Xi’an that invites you to delve into the fascinating world of ancient history and artistic mastery. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a testament to the power and legacy of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang!

You must visit here to view this testament to human ingenuity and artistry. It’s an ancient marvel that showcases the craftsmanship of thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots, created over two millennia ago to guard the tomb of Emperor Qin. A visit offers you a rare glimpse into the depths of China’s rich imperial history!

The main attractions you should visit within the site include the three massive pits containing the Terracotta Army, each revealing different aspects of the ancient soldiers’ roles and weaponry.

Best Time To Visit The Terracotta Army: The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant and the site is less crowded. Arrive early in the morning to make the most of your visit and avoid the midday rush.

3. The Forbidden City

Another amazing place to visit in China is The Forbidden City , a UNESCO World Heritage site that beckons you to embark on a journey through the heart of imperial China. Located in the heart of Beijing, this historic palace complex is a must-visit destination if you seek a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Chinese history.

You must visit Forbidden City because it is an unparalleled repository of Chinese culture and heritage. As the former imperial palace for over five centuries, it offers you a unique opportunity to witness the grandeur and opulence of the Ming and Qing dynasties.

The main attractions within the Forbidden City you must visit include the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Palace of Heavenly Purity, and the Imperial Garden. Don’t miss the Palace Museum, which houses countless treasures, or the awe-inspiring Meridian Gate!

Best Time To Visit The Forbidden City: The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn when the weather is mild, and the gardens are in full bloom. Avoid the peak summer and winter months to enjoy a more comfortable experience.

4. The Li River Scenic Area

The next best place to visit in China is The Li River Scenic Area . Here, You get to explore an enchanting natural landscape that has inspired poets and artists for centuries. Located in the Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China, this destination beckons you to experience the sublime beauty of the region.

You must visit here to experience the otherworldly karst landscape, where picturesque limestone peaks rise dramatically from the water’s edge. As you drift along the river on a leisurely cruise, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery straight out of a traditional Chinese painting.

The main attractions you must not miss within the Li River Scenic Area include the unique karst formations such as Elephant Trunk Hill, Nine Horses Mountain, and the Yellow Cloth Shoal. The charming town of Yangshuo, with its vibrant street markets, is another highlight you must explore.

Best Time To Visit The Li River Scenic Area: The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the landscape is at its most picturesque. The lush greenery of spring and the golden hues of autumn enhance the region’s natural beauty.

5. The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Next place on this list is Zhangjiajie National Forest Park which is a natural wonder that invites you to step into a realm of surreal landscapes and captivating beauty.  Located in Hunan Province, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers!

If you love nature, you must visit here to explore its towering sandstone pillars and lush greenery, which served as inspiration for the breathtaking landscapes in the movie “Avatar.” It offers an otherworldly experience that feels like a journey through a fantasy world!

The main attractions within the park you can explore include the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, the mesmerizing Tianzi Mountain, and the awe-inspiring Golden Whip Stream. The Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, the world’s highest and longest glass-bottomed bridge, is also a thrilling addition to your visit.

Best Time To Visit The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn when the weather is comfortable, and the landscape is at its most vibrant. To avoid crowds, aim for weekdays and early mornings.

6. Potala Palace

The Potala Palace , a UNESCO World Heritage site in Lhasa, Tibet, invites you to embark on a spiritual and architectural journey like no other. Perched on the Red Hill, this iconic palace is a testament to Tibetan culture, history, and the enduring legacy of Buddhism.

You must visit here to explore this symbol of Tibetan Buddhism and a reflection of Tibet’s rich heritage. It’s not only an architectural masterpiece but also a pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide. Visiting here is an opportunity for you to immerse yourself in the spiritual and cultural heart of Tibet!

The main attractions within the Potala Palace include the White Palace, the Red Palace, and the sacred chapels and shrines. The murals, sculptures, and ancient artifacts provide you a glimpse into Tibetan history and artistry.

Best Time To Visit The Potala Palace: The best time to visit is during the spring or early autumn when the weather is relatively mild, and the skies are clear. Be aware that the palace has limited daily visitor slots, so it’s advisable to book your tickets well in advance.

7. Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum

The next amazing place to visit in China is the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum . Located in Xi’an, China, it is an archaeological wonder that invites you to journey back in time to the ancient Chinese empire. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a testament to the First Emperor’s grandeur and the rich history of the Qin Dynasty.

You must visit here as this museum is home to the renowned Terracotta Army, an army of life-sized clay soldiers and horses that were buried alongside the First Emperor to protect him in the afterlife. It’s also a remarkable display of ancient craftsmanship and an extraordinary historical artifact.

The main attraction within the museum is, of course, the Terracotta Army, but it also includes various other artifacts and exhibits that provide you insights into the life and times of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. The Bronze Chariots and Horses Exhibition Hall is a must-see addition.

Best Time To Visit Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum: The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn when the weather is comfortable, and the crowds are less overwhelming. Be sure to arrive early to avoid the peak visitor hours.

8. The Bund

The Bund , a historic waterfront promenade in Shanghai, is another gorgeous place for you to experience the city’s rich past and vibrant present. This iconic destination is a testament to Shanghai’s evolution from a trading port to a modern metropolis.

You must visit here to experience this captivating juxtaposition of old and new. On one side, you’ll find a collection of colonial-era buildings showcasing European architecture, while on the other, you’ll be greeted by the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong.

The main attractions along The Bund you can visit  include the Peace Hotel, Customs House, and the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel, which takes you beneath the river to Pudong. The area comes to life at night when the buildings are illuminated, creating a breathtaking urban spectacle!

Best Time To Visit The Bund: The best time to visit is in the evening, as the Bund truly comes alive with its dazzling lights and stunning skyline views. The months of spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for exploring this iconic waterfront.

9. Leshan Giant Buddha

The Leshan Giant Buddha is another perfect place to visit in China. Located near Leshan City in Sichuan, It is a monumental masterpiece of ancient art and engineering that calls you to explore its serene majesty. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a captivating symbol of Buddhism’s enduring influence and a testament to human ingenuity.

You must visit here to see the largest stone Buddha statue in the world, standing at a towering 71 meters (233 feet) in height. Carved into the cliffside during the Tang Dynasty, it’s not just a testament to religious devotion but also an incredible engineering marvel. Visiting here offers a profound sense of reverence and appreciation for both history and culture!

The main attraction is, of course, the Giant Buddha itself, which you can explore from various vantage points, including a boat ride on the river. The surrounding area also includes temples, shrines, and stunning natural scenery, providing a well-rounded experience.

Best Time To Visit Leshan Giant Buddha: The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are relatively smaller. Plan your visit in the morning to avoid the midday rush.

10. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

The last, but certainly not the least, best place to visit in China is the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding , nestled in the heart of Sichuan. It offers you a unique opportunity for panda enthusiasts and nature lovers to witness the world’s most beloved endangered species up close. This renowned research facility is a sanctuary for giant pandas and is dedicated to their conservation and breeding.

You must visit here and get a rare chance to observe giant pandas in a semi-wild environment. As the leading center for panda research and breeding, it plays a crucial role in preserving these iconic creatures. Your visit not only supports their conservation but also offers a remarkable educational experience!

Of course, The main attraction is the giant pandas themselves. You can watch them roam, play, and even eat bamboo, which is their favorite food. The base is also home to other wildlife species, including red pandas, which adds to the experience.

Best Time To Visit Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: The best time to visit is during the morning when the pandas are most active and before the crowds arrive. Spring and autumn are ideal seasons, as the weather is comfortable, and the pandas are often more active.

The Best Part of China to Visit

China, a diverse and culturally rich country, offers a range of regions for you to discover, tailored to your preferences as a traveler.

• Coastal Cities:
• Shanghai : A modern hub where you can enjoy shopping and vibrant nightlife.
• Beijing : Immerse yourself in history at the Forbidden City and Great Wall.
• Hong Kong : Experience a unique blend of eastern and western influences in this bustling city.
• Scenic Natural Landscapes:
• Guilin : Delight in picturesque karst landscapes and explore ancient villages.
• Zhangjiajie : Hike among the breathtaking “Avatar Hallelujah Mountain.”
• Jiuzhaigou Valley: Find serenity in crystal-clear lakes and cascading waterfalls.
• Historical and Cultural Sites:
• Xi’an : Discover the Terracotta Army and walk along the ancient city wall.
• Chengdu : Experience history, culture, and savor delicious Sichuan cuisine.
• Pingyao : Step back in time in a well-preserved walled city from the Ming and Qing dynasties.
• Ethnic Minority Regions:
• Yunnan : Immerse yourself in unique cultural experiences and explore ethnic diversity.
• Tibet : Embark on a spiritual and adventurous journey to discover Tibetan culture and high-altitude landscapes.

In conclusion, the best part of China for you to explore depends on your specific interests as a traveler.

How Much Does It Cost to Visit China

The cost of visiting China can vary widely depending on your travel style, preferences, and the cities you plan to explore. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses for a trip to China:

• Accommodation: Accommodation costs vary from budget to luxury options. In major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, a mid-range hotel might cost $80 to $100 per night, while luxury hotels can exceed $200. Budget travelers can find hostels or guesthouses for $30 to $50 per night.
• Food: Chinese cuisine is diverse and budget-friendly. Street food and local restaurants offer affordable meals for as little as $5, while dining in upscale restaurants can cost $20 or more. A daily food budget can range from $15 to $40, depending on your preferences.
• Transportation: Transportation in China is efficient and budget-friendly. Subway and bus rides are usually under $1, while long-distance bullet train tickets range from $50 to $200. Domestic flights cost $100 to $300, but consider economical high-speed trains for city-to-city travel when budgeting.
• Activities: Entrance fees to popular tourist sites vary, with some costing $10 to $30, and others being free. Cultural activities, shows, and guided tours may add to your expenses. Budget an extra $10 to $30 per day for activities.

Budgeting tips:

• Opt for local street food and eateries to save on food costs.
• Consider using public transportation and walking to explore cities.
• Plan your trip during the shoulder seasons to find better deals on accommodation and flights.
• Purchase a local SIM card or use Wi-Fi to avoid international data roaming charges.

China offers a wide range of options to suit different budgets, from affordable backpacking to luxurious travel. Careful planning and research can help you make the most of your budget and have a memorable experience in this diverse and culturally rich country.

China offers everyone a wide array of attractions, each steeped in history and culture. Planning a trip to China involves thoughtful consideration of expenses and preferences. From choosing accommodations to savoring the diverse culinary scene and utilizing efficient transportation, you can personalize their experiences to match their budgets and interests.

With all the incredible wonders and experiences China has to offer, doesn’t the charm of this country call out to you?

If you enjoyed reading about ways to make the most of your China trip, do check out our other travel inspiration blogs. If you have your own adventurous stories to share, we would love to hear from you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

What are five fun things to do in china.

Five fun things to do in China include exploring the Great Wall, visiting the Terracotta Army, enjoying traditional tea ceremonies, experiencing vibrant street markets, and trying authentic Chinese cuisine.

Is China cheap or expensive?

China’s cost can vary, but it’s generally considered an affordable travel destination, offering both budget and luxury options.

What is China unique for?

China is unique for its rich history, diverse cultures, stunning natural landscapes, and the Great Wall, one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.

Is China tourist friendly?

China is generally tourist-friendly, with many English-speaking services and a growing tourism infrastructure.

Who visited China the most?

China’s most visited by tourists from within Asia, with countries like South Korea, Japan, and the United States also contributing significant numbers.

What is a popular activity in China?

A popular activity in China is practicing Tai Chi in parks, a traditional martial art that promotes health and relaxation.

What is China’s favorite food?

Popular Chinese foods include dishes like Peking duck, dumplings, and various regional cuisines, with rice and noodles being staples.

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Tarek Afif Bizri

Really enjoyed the trip. Loved the effort made to show us different parts of the wall every day. The last day was so rural, it felt very special. The lake ...

Splendidly diverse in its geographic, ethnic, culinary and social make-up, China is a nation on the march. Developing at a rate unmatched in human history, already huge cities are adding sprawling suburbs and cutting-edge architecture on a day-by-day basis, even as an ever-expanding web of high-speed rail ties the country together.

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Outdoor activities in china, shopping in china, martial arts, travel ideas for china, created by local experts.

8 days  / from 2208 USD

Sichuan Specialities: Chengdu, Temples and Pandas

Discover the Buddhist history and the natural wonders of Sichuan. From bustling Chengdu and its giant pandas, to the national parks and lake districts of Sichuan Province, to the giant Buddha statue at Leshan, this trip is perfect for those who want to discover this culturally rich part of China.

5 days  / from 838 USD

Family Time in Guilin and Yangshuo

This 5-day family trip is a magnificent opportunity to experience the beautiful outdoor settings of Guilin and Yangshuo. Walk, cycle and raft through awe-inspiring scenery, including dramatic limestone karst mountains, and learn about the everyday lives of the Zhuang and Yao ethnic groups.

8 days  / from 1962 USD

Sichuan Family Adventure

Sichuan is home to a rich and vibrant culture, stunning scenery and wildlife, and delicious cuisine. Spend time with Chengdu's giant pandas, trek around Mount Qingcheng, stand in awe of the world’s largest Buddha at Leshan, and much more, all with this exciting trip, which is perfect for families!

Nevertheless, this apparent modernity is based on a civilization that has remained intact, continually recycling itself, for over four millennia. Chinese script reached perfection during the Han dynasty (220 BC–220 AD), and those stone lions standing sentinel outside sleek new skyscrapers first appeared as temple guardians over three thousand years ago. Indeed, it is the tension and contrasts between change and continuity that make modern China so fascinating.

The first thing that strikes visitors to the country is the extraordinary density of its population. In much of China, villages, towns and cities seem to sprawl endlessly into one another along the grey arteries of busy expressways. Move to the far south or west of the country, however, and the population thins out as it begins to vary: indeed, large areas are inhabited not by the “Chinese”, but by scores of distinct ethnic minorities, ranging from animist hill tribes to urban Muslims. Here, the landscape begins to dominate: green paddy fields and misty hilltops in the southwest, the scorched, epic vistas of the old Silk Road in the northwest, and the magisterial mountains of Tibet.

While travel around the country itself is the easiest it has ever been, it would be wrong to pretend that it is an entirely simple matter to penetrate modern China. The main tourist highlights – the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Terracotta Army and the Yangzi gorges – are relatively few considering the vast size of the country, and much of China’s historic architecture has been deliberately destroyed in the rush to modernize. Added to this are the frustrations of travelling in a land where few people speak English, the writing system is alien and foreigners are sometimes viewed as exotic objects of intense curiosity – though overall you’ll find that the Chinese, despite a reputation for curtness, are generally hospitable and friendly.

• With an area of 9.6 million square kilometres, China is the fourth-largest country in the world and the most populous nation on earth, with around 1.35 billion people. Of these, 92 percent are of the Han ethnic group, with the remainder comprising about sixty minorities such as Mongols, Uyghurs and Tibetans.
• The main religions are Buddhism, Taoism and Christianity, though the country is officially atheist.
• China’s longest river is the Yangzi (6275km) and the highest peak is Qomolongma – Mount Everest (8850m) – on the Nepalese border.
• The Chinese Communist Party is the sole political organization, and is divided into Executive, Legislative and Judicial branches. The chief of state (President) and the head of government (Premier) are elected for five-year terms at the National People’s Congress.
• After decades of state planning, the economy is now mixed, with nationally owned enterprises on the decline and free-market principles ubiquitous.

China's Eastern Seaboard

Encompassing the provinces of Shandong, Jiangsu and Zhejiang, China’s eastern seaboard stretches for almost 2000km between the mouths of the Yellow and Yangzi rivers. These waterways have played a vital part in the cultural and economic development of China for the last two thousand years, and the area today remains one of the country’s economic powerhouses. Including Shanghai, a city flanked by Jiangsu and Zhejiang, the eastern seaboard is home to nearly 250 million people – meaning that, if somehow cleaved from China, it would be the world’s fourth most populous country. This makes for great transport infrastructure: comfortable, modern buses run along the many inter-city expressways, while the area has the country’s highest concentration of high-speed rail routes. Yet, however modernized the eastern seaboard might be, with cities which rank among the most sophisticated in the land, there’s plenty of visible history to get your teeth into as you journey around the region.

Shandong province is home to some small and intriguing places: Ji’nan, a large city in which you can go swimming in a hutong spring; Qufu, the birthplace of Confucius, with its giant temple and mansion; Tai Shan, one of the major pivots of the Taoist religion; and the coastal city of Qingdao, which offers a couple of beaches, swath of colonial architecture, lots of beer and seafood, and a ferry service to South Korea. Over in Jiangsu province there’s Nanjing, China’s large but likeable “southern capital”, and wonderful Suzhou, whose centre is crisscrossed by gorgeous canals, and dotted with classically designed gardens. Heading further south to Zhejiang province one will undoubtedly stumble across Hangzhou, which Marco Polo termed “the most beautiful and magnificent city in the world”; its Xi Hu (West Lake), still recognizable from classic scroll paintings, is deservedly rated as one of the most scenic spots in China. The same can be said of the enchanting island of Putuo Shan, which juts out of the sea just east of the mainland.

The region’s prosperity means that its accommodation is on the expensive side, though there are excellent youth hostels in almost all tourist centres. The climate varies a fair bit from north to south: Shandong’s is similar to that of Beijing; while the Yangzi River region, despite being low-lying and far from the northern plains, is unpleasantly cold and damp in winter, yet also unbearably hot and sticky during the summer – Nanjing’s reputation as one of the “three furnaces” of China is well justified. If possible, try to visit in spring (mid-April to late May), during which a combination of rain showers, sunshine and low humidity gives the terrain a splash of green as well as putting smiles on the faces of residents emerging from the harsh winter.

Fujian, Guangdong and Hainan Island

There’s something very self-contained about the provinces of Fujian , Guangdong and Hainan Island, which occupy 1200km or so of China’s convoluted southern seaboard. Though occasionally taking centre stage in the country’s history, the provinces share a sense of being generally isolated from mainstream events by the mountain ranges surrounding Fujian and Guangdong, physically cutting them off from the rest of the empire. Forced to look seawards, the coastal regions have a long history of contact with the outside world: this is where Islam entered China, and porcelain and tea left it along the Maritime Silk Road; where the mid-nineteenth-century theatricals of the Opium Wars, colonialism, the Taiping Uprising and the mass overseas exodus of southern Chinese were played out; and where today you’ll find some of China’s most Westernized cities. Conversely, the interior mountains enclose some of the country’s wildest, most remote corners, parts of which were virtually in the Stone Age a century ago.

Possibly because its attractions are thinly spread, the region receives scant attention from foreign visitors, except those transiting between the mainland and Hong Kong or Macau. And it must be admitted that a superficial skim through the region – especially the enormous industrial sprawl surrounding the Guangdong capital, Guangzhou – can leave a gloomy impression of uncontrolled development and its attendant ills. Yet below the surface, even Guangzhou has some antique architecture and a strangely compelling, lively atmosphere, while smaller cities – including the Fujian port of Xiamen, and Chaozhou in eastern Guangdong – seem partially frozen in time, staunchly preserving their traditions in the face of the modern world. Scenically, the Wuyi Shan range in northeastern Fujian contains the region’s lushest, most picturesque mountain forests; while way down south on Hainan Island lie the country’s best and busiest beaches where you can also surf and scuba dive.

As one of the longest-developed areas of the mainland, getting around the region is seldom problematic, though accommodation can be expensive and suffers huge seasonal fluctuations in price. The weather is nicest in spring and autumn, as summer storms from June to August bring sweltering heat and humidity, thunder, downpours and floods. In contrast, the higher reaches of the Guangdong-Fujian border can get very cold in winter.

Hong Kong and Macau

The handover of Asia’s last two European colonies, Hong Kong in 1997 and Macau in 1999, opened new eras for both. Despite a visible colonial heritage, the dominant Chinese character underlying these two SARs, or “Special Administrative Regions of China” is obvious: after all, Hong Kong and Macau’s population is 97 percent Chinese, the main language is Cantonese, and there have always been close ties – if tinged with distrust – with their cousins north of the border. It is hard to overstate the importance that the handovers had for the Chinese government, in sealing the end of centuries of colonial intrusion with the return of the last pieces of foreign-occupied soil to the motherland. Hong Kong and Macau’s population widely supported the transfer of power – if only to see how much leeway they could garner under the new administration. Both entities now find themselves in the unique position of being capitalist enclaves subject to a communist state, under the relatively liberal “One Country, Two Systems” policy coined by the late Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping.

First under colonial and now mainland Chinese rule, Hong Kong and Macau’s citizens have never had a say in their futures, so they have concentrated their efforts on other things – notably, making money. With its emphasis on economics and consumerism, Hong Kong offers the greatest variety and concentration of shops and shopping on earth, along with a colossal range of cuisines, and vistas of sea and island, green mountains and futuristic cityscapes. The excellent infrastructure, including the efficient public transit system, the helpful tourist offices and all the other facilities of a genuinely international city make this an extremely soft entry into the Chinese world.

While Hong Kong is a place to do business, Macau has leapt ahead in recent years as a haven for gambling, its thirty-odd casinos making the enclave a veritable Las Vegas of the East. The wealth has funded a modern cityscape, but evidence of its colonial past persists in extensive quarters of antique, Mediterranean-style architecture, along with Portuguese wine and Macanese cooking, a fusion of colonial and Chinese styles.

Visitors will spend more money here than elsewhere in China, though public transport and food are good value – even if accommodation is always pricey for what you get. Travellers on a tight budget who stay in dormitories can just about get by on HK$450 a day, though at the other end of the market in hotels, restaurants and shops, prices quickly rise to international levels.

Discover more places in China

• The Yangzi basin Travel Guide
• Dongbei Travel Guide
• Hebei and Tianjin Travel Guide
• The Yellow River Travel Guide
• Yunnan Travel Guide
• Hainan Island

Since 2008, when China hosted the Olympics, athletic passion has become almost a patriotic duty. But the most visible forms of exercise are fairly timeless; head to any public space in the morning and you’ll see citizens going through all sorts of martial-arts routines, playing ping pong and street badminton, even ballroom dancing. Sadly though, facilities for organized sport are fairly limited.

The Chinese are good at “small ball” games such as squash and badminton, and, of course, table tennis, at which they are world champions, but admit room for improvement in the “big ball” games, such as football. Nevertheless, Chinese men follow foreign football avidly, with games from the European leagues shown on CCTV5. There’s also a national obsession among students for basketball, which predates the rise to international fame of NBA star Yao Ming, who plied his trade for the Houston Rockets.

If China has an indigenous “sport”, however, it’s the martial arts – not surprising, perhaps, in a country whose history is littered with long periods of civil conflict. Today, there are hundreds of Chinese martial-arts styles, often taught for exercise rather than for fighting.

As for outdoor activities, hiking for its own sake is slowly catching on, though tourists have plenty of opportunities for step-aerobic-type exercise up long, steep staircases ascending China’s many holy mountains. Snow sports have become popular in Dongbei, which has several ski resorts, while the wilds of Yunnan and Sichuan, along with Qinghai and Tibet, are drawing increasing numbers of adventurous young city-born Chinese – always dressed in the latest outdoor gear – to mountaineering and four-wheel-drive expeditions.

China is a good place to shop for tourist souvenirs, folk art, clothes, household goods and faked designer labels – but not for real designer brands or electronic goods (including mobile phones), which are all cheaper at home or online. Even small villages have markets, while larger cities will also have big department stores, shopping malls and even international supermarket chains.

Prices in stores are fixed, but discounts (折扣, zhékòu) are common: they’re marked by a number between one and nine and the character “折”, indicating the percentage of the original price you have to pay – “8折”, for example, means that the item is on sale at eighty percent of its original price. At markets you’re expected to bargain for goods unless prices are displayed. If you can speak Chinese, hang around for a while to get an idea what others are paying, or just ask at a few stalls selling the same things; Chinese shoppers usually state the price they’re willing to pay, rather than beginning low and working up to it after haggling. Don’t become obsessed about saving every last yuan; being charged more than locals and getting ripped off from time to time is inevitable.

Souvenirs popular with foreign tourists include “chops” (stone seals with your name engraved in characters on the base); all manner of reproduction antiques, from porcelain to furniture; mementos of Mao and the Cultural Revolution – Little Red Books and cigarette lighters that chime “The East is Red”; T-shirts and “old-style” Chinese clothes; scroll paintings; and ethnic jewellery and textiles. Chinese tourists also look for things like local teas, “purple sand” teapots and bright tack. Pretty much the same selection is sold at all tourist sites, irrespective of relevancy. For real antiques, you need specialist stores or markets – some are listed in the Guide – where anything genuine is meant to be marked with a wax seal and requires an export licence to take out of the country. But be aware that, with world prices for Chinese art going through the roof, forgeries abound. The Chinese are also clued-up, avid collectors and value their culture highly, so don’t expect to find any bargains.

Clothes are a very good deal in China, with brand stores such as Giordano, Baleno, Metersbonwe and Yishion selling high-quality smart-casual wear. Fashion-conscious places such as Shanghai and Hong Kong also have factory outlet stores, selling last year’s designs at low prices, and all major cities have specialist stores stocking outdoor and hiking gear, though it often looks far better than it turns out to be for the price. Silk and other fabrics are also good value, if you’re into making your own clothes, while shoes are inexpensive too. With the Chinese youth racing up in height, finding clothing in large sizes is becoming less of an issue.

All bookshops and many market stalls in China sell music CDs of everything from Beijing punk to Beethoven, plus VCDs and DVDs of domestic and international movies (often subtitled – check on the back). While extremely cheap, many of these are pirated (the discs may be confiscated at customs when you get home). Genuine DVD films may be region-coded for Asia, so check the label and whether your player at home will handle them; there are no such problems with CDs or VCDs.

Hong Kong is the only place with a comprehensive range of Western goods; on the mainland, your best bet is to head to provincial capitals, many of which have a branch of Carrefour (家乐福, jiālèfú) or Wal-Mart (沃尔玛, wòěrmă), where you may find small caches of foreign goodies.

Thousands of martial arts have evolved in China, usually in isolated communities that had to defend themselves, such as temples and clan villages. All, though, can be classed into two basic types: external, or hard, styles concentrate on building up physical strength to overpower opponents; the trickier internal, or soft, styles concentrate on developing and focusing the internal energy known as qi . Both styles use forms – prearranged sets of movements – to develop the necessary speed, power and timing; as well as kicks, punches and open palm strikes, they also incorporate movements inspired by animals.

The most famous external style is Shaolin kung fu , developed in the Shaolin Temple in Henan province and known for powerful kicks and animal styles – notably eagle, mantis and monkey. The classic Shaolin weapon is the staff, and there’s even a drunken form, where the practitoner sways and lurches as if inebriated.

But the style that you’re most likely to see – it’s practised in the open air all over the country – is the internal tai ji quan . The body is held in a state of minimal tension to create the art’s characteristic “soft” appearance. Its emphasis on slow movements and increasing qi flow means it is excellent for health, and it’s a popular workout for the elderly.

Travel advice for China

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to China

• Culture and Etiquette in China
• Eating and drinking in China
• How to get to China
• Getting around China: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips China for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit China

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written by Andy Turner

updated 10.01.2024

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China Travel Restrictions & Travel Advisory (Updated April 25, 2024)

Amazing News for Selected Country Travelers!

Visa-Free Access to China

Great news for our esteemed customers from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, Switzerland, and Malaysia! You can enjoy China's beautiful culture and scenery visa-free for 15 days until December 31st, 2025. No extended waiting, less hassle, and more time for planning your perfect China adventure.

And for our fortunate travelers from Singapore—you can relish visa-free access to China for up to 30 days, indefinitely!

Seeking a Longer Stay or Arriving from Other Countries? Try China Highlights' Port Visa Service

If your home country isn't listed above or if you aim to discover China for more than two weeks, no worries — we offer our Port Visa Service! Once your tour booking is confirmed with us, we can arrange your visa for just US$50 (valid until June 30th, 2024). Forget the stress of embassy visits and visa interviews.

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International Flights to China

What to expect when traveling in china, best times to travel to china, 8 ways to enter china: all open now.

Since China has fully permitted visa applications, there are now several ways to enter the country.

If you still hold a valid Chinese visa (any type including a tourist visa, 10-year visa, a port visa, etc.), you can use it to enter China.

If you don't have a Chinese visa or your visa has expired, you can apply for a new one. All visas can now be applied for, including tourist visas, business visas, work visas, and so on. (International visitors can apply for a tourist visa to the Chinese Mainland in Hong Kong.)

For the documents required for a visa application, you can refer to the information given by a Chinese embassy/consulate . Please submit your application at least two months in advance.

To apply for a tourist visa (L visa), you will be asked to provide an invitation letter issued by a Chinese travel agency or individual or round-trip air tickets and hotel bookings.

When booking a private tour with us, we can provide you with an invitation letter, which is one more thing we do to make your travel more convenient, giving you more flexibility with your air tickets and hotel bookings.

Now it is very easy to apply for a visa . You can easily apply by yourself without an intermediary. The following is how one of our clients successfully applied for a Chinese tourist visa:

• First, fill out the form at the China Online Visa Application website ;
• Second, make an appointment on this website to submit your visa materials on Appointment for Visa Application Submission website ;
• Third, take the required documents to the embassy to submit;
• Finally, you will get a return receipt if your documents are qualified.

Usually, you will get your visa after 7 working days. The application fee is about USD185 for US citizens.

Q: What if my passport expires but my visa doesn't?

A: You can travel to China on the expired passport containing valid Chinese visa in combination with the new passport, provided that the identity information (name, date of birth, gender, nationality) on both passport identical.

If there is a change to any of the above details, you must apply for a new visa.

2. 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy

If you do not apply for a Chinese visa, you may still have the opportunity to visit these areas of China visa free: the Shanghai area (including Suzhou, Hangzhou, etc.), the Beijing area (with Tianjin and Hebei), the Guangzhou area (Shenzhen, Zhuhai, etc.), and more. Take advantage of the 6-day visa-free entitlements.

Find out if you could use the 144-hour visa-free transit policy with our information on China's 144-hour Visa-Free Policy (Eligible Entry/Exit Ports, Applicable Countries, Documents to be Prepared...)

You can also obtain entry and exit control policies through the 24-hour hotline of the National Immigration Administration:

• Beijing: 0086 (+86)-10-12367
• Shanghai: 0086 (+86)-21-12367
• Guangzhou: 0086 (+86)-20-12367

Quick Test: Will My Route Qualify for China 72/144-Hour Visa-Free Transit?

1. I will depart from (only applies to direct or connected flight):

2. I will arrive in China at [city], [airport / railway station / port].

3. My arrival date is...

4. I will leave for [country/region] from China (the bounding destination on the air ticket):

5. My departure date is...

6. My nationality is...

8. I have Chinese visa refusal stamps in my passport.

You qualify to enjoy China's 72-hour visa-free policy.

You qualify to enjoy China's 144-hour visa-free policy.

You don't qualify to enjoy China's 72-hour or 144-hour visa-free policy.

Reason you don't qualify:

• You must be in transit to a third country or region.
• You must leave the city area (prefecture or municipality) after the 72/144 hours (the 72/144-hour limit is calculated starting from 00:00 on the day after arrival, i.e. 24:00 on the arrival date).
• Your passport must be valid for more than 3 months at the time of entry into China.
• Your passport nationality is not eligible for the 72/144-hour visa exemption program.
• You have Chinese visa refusal stamps in your passport.

3. Port Visas (Landing Visas)

If you don't have time to get a visa, or if you find it cumbersome to apply for a tourist visa, you could consider traveling to China through a port visa.

Port visas can be applied for a group at least including 2 people. You need to enter the country within 15 days after you get your entry permit. The port visa allows a stay period of 1 to 2 months.

Applicable ports include Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Guilin, Xi'an, Chengdu, etc.

Note: Tourists from America are not granted a port visa in Shanghai.

Book your China trip with us and we can help you apply for a port visa.

4. Visa Exemption for ASEAN Tour Groups to Guilin

In addition, tour groups from ASEAN member countries, including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Singapore, Myanmar, Brunei, and the Philippines, can visit Guilin for 144 hours without visas as long as they meet the visa-free transit policy requirements.

5. Shanghai Visa-Free Policy for Cruise Groups

Shanghai has a 15-day visa-free policy for foreign tourist groups entering China via a cruise. You must arrive and depart on the same cruise and be received by a Chinese travel agent at the Shanghai Cruise Terminal (or Wusong Passenger Center).

6. Hainan Visa-Free Access

No visa is required for staying on Hainan Island for up to 30 days for ordinary passport holders from 59 countries. Groups and individual tourists must book a tour through an accredited travel agency.

Find out whether you qualify for the policy here .

7. Visa Exemption for the Pearl River Delta Area

International travelers from Hong Kong or Macau are able to visit the Pearl River Delta area (Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, etc.) visa-free as long as they go with a registered tour provider, such as us.

8. APEC Cards

If you hold a valid APEC business travel card, you can simply enter China with the card without applying for a visa.

Travelers who hold a valid APEC business travel card can stay in China for up to 60 days.

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Do I Still Need a PCR Test or Antigen Self-Test to Enter China

No. Starting from August 30, all travelers entering China will no longer need to undergo any COVID-19 testing. You do not need to submit any test results for COVID-19 before departure.

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Hong Kong / Macau Travel Restriction

Hong kong entry requirements.

Travelers from any region bound for Hong Kong will no longer need to take pre-flight COVID-19 tests (no PCR test, no RAT test) from April 1.

There is also no need for any tests when traveling from Hong Kong to the Chinese Mainland. Hong Kong could be a good gateway for your China trip. See suggestions on China Itineraries from Hong Kong (from 1 Week to 3 Weeks).

Direct high-speed trains from Guangzhou and Shenzhen to Hong Kong are available now. In preparation for the Canton Fair, it is expected that direct high-speed ferries will be launched from Guangzhou Pazhou Port to Hong Kong's airport in mid-April.

• 10 Top China Tours from Hong Kong

Macau Entry Requirement

From August 30, travelers from any region bound for Macau will no longer need to take pre-flight COVID-19 tests (no PCR test, no RAT test).

There is also no need for any tests when traveling from Macau to the Chinese Mainland.

Inbound and outbound international flights in the week beginning March 6th rose by more than 350% compared with a year earlier, to nearly 2,500 flights, according to Chinese flight tracking data from APP Flight Master.

At present, there are one or two direct flights a week from New York to Shanghai, Los Angeles to Beijing, Seattle to Shanghai, London to Guangzhou, etc.

There are also many flight options with stopovers that are more frequent and affordable. Testing at transit airports is now not required!

The Coronavirus outbreak in China has subsided. China looks like it did in 2019 again. No special measures (like PCR tests or health codes) are required when traveling around China. All attractions are open as normal.

Wearing a mask is not mandatory when traveling. In hotels, masks are off for the most part. But in some crowded places, such as airports or subway stations, many people still wear masks.

Weather-wise, the best times to visit China are spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October), when most of the popular places have their most tourism-friendly weather, except for the "golden weeks" — the first week of May and of October — when most attractions are flooded with Chinese tourists.

If you are looking for smaller crowds, favorable prices, and still good weather, you should consider March and April or September.

Tourism in cultural and historical destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an is hardly affected by weather conditions. They are suitable to be visited all year round.

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Tour China with Us

We've been building our team for over 20 years. Even over the past three years we have continued, serving over 10,000 expats with China tours and getting a lot of praise (see TripAdvisor ).

We are based in China and can show you the characteristics and charm of China from a unique perspective. Just contact us to create your China trip .

Our consultants will listen to and answer your inquiries carefully and prepare the best plan for you.

• 8-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Shanghai Highlights Tour — the classic Golden Triangle
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• Best China Tours 2024/2025: Top Tours for First & Return Trips
• 15 Best Places to Visit in China (2024)
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• How to Plan a 10-Day Itinerary in China (Best 5 Options)
• 8 Days in China: Top 15 Tours and Itineraries (2024/2025)
• China Weather in January 2024: Enjoy Less-Crowded Traveling
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• China Weather in April 2024: Where to Go (Smart Pre-Season Pick)
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10 Easy Steps to Plan Your China Travel 2025

Planning a trip to China seems to be daunting. Well, China may really be long from your country. It has an entirely different system of society and culture. There are too many things to worry, food, hotels, tourist, flights, train… But here we want to say: take it easy. Planning a trip to China easy and raveling in China is easy either. Looking at it from another angle, it is wonderful that you're thinking of coming to China, a majestic country full of culture, history and natural wonders. You won’t regret a moment of your time in China because it will be a trip of once in a lifetime. Most importantly, you are not alone in China! You will be well taken care of by us from airport pickup, hotels to food, tour guide, etc.

Well there are some things you can do and learn about before your trip. The more prepared you are, the greater your chances of a memorable China trip that lives up to your expectations. Read following simple 10 easy steps which will help you organize a well-planned trip to China.

1. Decide Where to Go in China

China is one of the largest countries in the world with diverse options for travel. Classic culture tour, adventure, landscape sweeping, food tour…, which means you can travel to classic destinations, such as Beijing, Xian, Shanghai in an enjoyable way, or travel pretty far to experience exotic culture and nature in western China destinations, such as Tibet, Sichuan, Yunnan, Guizhou, etc., or go to spend several leisure day exploring romantic southern China destinations, such as Guilin, Hangzhou, etc. There may be certain things to do which is quite famous, and absolutely should be planned in your trip, such as the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Terracotta Warriors, Giant Panda, Li River, etc. You can browse the Top 15 Things to do in China. A another good way to check the Top 10 Most Popular Destinations in China to get inspirations. If you are interested in Chinese history and culture, you can also find out more sites in China UNESCO Site List.

Useful links

Top 10 China Destinations You can't Miss in 2025 Most Popular China City Tours 2025 Top 15 Things to Do for Your China Vacation 2025

Beijing Tian'anmen

Chengdu Giant Panda

2. Traveling Independently or with a Tour Package

Traveling independently is not very difficult in tourism-developed destinations, such as Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, but not recommended if you want to explore remote southwestern, southern and northeastern destinations. Well, you should know visiting China independently will cost a lot of time because you have to spend much time for mapping, looking for hotels and navigating location. Sometimes it is more expensive than a tour package.

Traveling with a travel agency is strongly recommended if you want to explore the very essence of China with a comfortable and worry-free way. A good local tour operator, like China Discovery, usually provides valuable group tours as well as tailor-made tour packages. You will be saved from the cumbersome jobs of online researching of hotels, destinations, foods, etc.

Top 10 China Tour Packages Classic China Tours Rated by Real Travelers Recommended China Tours from Beijing Recommended China Tours from Shanghai

Our tour guide with clients

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3. Decide When to Go

Since China has four very distinct seasons, and the popular destinations are located in different regions of the territory, it is very important to travel destinations in different seasons. Since China is so large and diverse, you can always find suitable destinations to visit in each season, or each month. In the big metropolis, such as Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Hong Kong and Chengdu, the season doesn't matter as much as visiting natural destinations, because their best highlights are all conveniently located in or near the city downtown, and it is always very easy to book flights, trains and hotels. But some destinations are only recommended to be visited in specific seasons.

Generally speaking, Autumn is the best season to travel China when the weather is pleasant and scenery is finest. But it is also the busiest tourism peak season. To avoid the crowds, you can avoid traveling during the festivals, such as National Holiday, Middle Autumn Festival, etc. Find out your destinations here in Recommended Destinations to Visit in Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter.

China Seasonal Destinations China Weather and Climate Best Time to Visit China

Great Wall in Autumn

Guilin in Summer

4. Get Your Travel Documents Ready

Before leaving for China, you have to get your passport and Chinese visa prepared in advance. Some cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xian, etc, have released visa-free policies, but they only allow a stay less 72 hours, and there are a lot of complicated procedures to deal with.

You’d better apply for Chinese visa at least six months before your trip. A multiple entry visa is recommended which allows you to enter China for many times. It is also useful for trips to Hong Kong or Macau with returns to China. You also have to have a valid passport with you. If you don’t have a passport, it usually will take at least four to six weeks from the time of application for you to receive one. Make sure your passport won’t get expired while you’re in China. If you want to visit Tibet, you will have to obtain a Tibet Entry Permit.

Chinese Visa Types Chinese Visa Application Chinese Visa Exemptions

Chinese Visa

5. Decide Your Trip Length and Create a Rough Itinerary

A China trip can be as short as a day tour, or as long as a panoramic trip of months. You decide the trip length, and the destinations decide how many days needed. A classic China tour, which covers Beijing, Xian, Chengdu, Guilin and Shanghai, will cost about 15~16 days. These destinations are usually visited by the first-timers. You can also add Yangtze River Cruise (4~5 days), Tibet (4~8days), Zhangjiajie (3~4days), Yellow Mountain (3~4days) to your trip if you have more days in China.

It is suggested to arrange the itinerary at a leisure pace so that you can have enough time to experience all the best highlights, and won’t get exhausted. If you already have done a lot of researches, you can create a rough itinerary on your own, then send to your travel agency to check availabilities. If you have no idea how to organize the destinations into an itinerary, you can feel free to let your travel consultant offer you a recommended itinerary.

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Beijing Forbidden City

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6. Book Your Flights and Hotels

Once you work out an ideal itinerary and confirm with your travel agency, you can start to book flights and hotels. Early booking is recommended because the fares for flights and hotels are not fixed. The earlier you book, the greater prices you will enjoy. In some popular destinations, such as Huangshan, Lhasa, etc., the demands for hotels are quite high during the peak season. If you are flexible, you can arrange the flights and hotels on your own. But we suggest you let your travel agency book flights and hotels for you because they know which flights match your itinerary well, and which hotels have great service and amenities. Besides, the agencies always have better prices of flights and hotels.

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7. Traveling with Children

You can definitely travel in China with your kids, which can be fun, entertaining and educational. The profound culture, great history, amazing natural landscape, unique food and budget shopping make the Middle Kingdom the perfect destination for family travel. Besides, it is safe and easy to travel with children in China because most destinations are connected by fast flights, train or bus. There are many things to do for your family vacation - visiting the cute Giant Panda or even having a volunteering job, leisurely hiking the Great Wall, making new friends with local kids in the custom parks, entertaining in the amusement parks, taking Kungfu class, enjoying acrobatic show, etc. At the same time, don’t worry about the accommodation, dinning, transportation in China. Comfort, fun, experiences… all are acquirable if you plan the trip in advance well. Before leaving for China, make sure you have everything you absolutely need but haven’t over-packed, because you can find many of the necessary stuffs for kids or infants in China.

Top China tours for family with kids Family Friendly Activities in China Destinations for Family Travel

Visiting Terracotta Warriors in Xian

Hong Kong Disney Resort

8. Money and Currency in China

Renminbi (人民币) or RMB is the official currency of China. Chinese people often call yuan as “kuai”, both of the two pronunciations are used among China. For example, 1 yuan = 1 kuai. Notes are available for 1RMB, 10RMB, 20RMB, 50RMB, and 100RMB.

Most businesses in China only accept Chinese currency. But your travel agency usually accepts USD, EURO, GBP and AUD. You can change Chinese currency at airports, banks, ATMs, hotels and exchangers. During your travel in China, you are suggested to bring some cashes for daily payments of food, taxi, shopping, etc. Most ATMs in China allow you to withdraw Chinese money in big cities, such as Beijing, Xian, Chengdu, Shanghai, etc.

Chinese Currency & Money Exchange Shopping in China How to make payment to China Discovery

RMB (100 Yuan)

Withdraw money at ATM

9. Start Packing and Review Your Medical Checklist

Pack light and only bring necessary stuffs because you can get most stuffs you want to buy in China. Besides, your baggage will definitely get fuller and heavier as there are too many interesting things you can shop in China.

Bring and keep your passport and Chinese visa well. Getting any of them will be a very serious problem in China. Just in case, you can duplicate several copies of them and keep the originals and the copies separately. Also remember to bring your bank card, credit card and confirmations of your bookings of flights, hotels, trains.

As for clothing, you should wear accordingly to specific season and destination. Check China Weather or ask your travel consultant for recommendations. Bring different sizes of bags to make a classified packing: large bags for clothing and some rarely used stuff before stepping off the plane; small bag for frequently used stuff and carry with you.

Before packing, you should understand there are some luggage restrictions entering China by air. Varying from different airlines, the restrictions can be hard to tell one by one.

What to Pack for China Travel Baggage Allowance for Entry & Exit China

Pack only necessary stuffs

10. Learn More about China

China is a quite different country from America, Australia, and Europe. There are many interesting things to read about China, such as festivals, food, history, facts, etc. Learning about Chinese culture will help you understand well about the things your tour guides explain to you during your trip.

Chinese Culture and History Tours 2025

Learn Chinese culture

Keep Reading

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• What to Pack for China Travel
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• Top 15 Things to Do for China Vacation
• China High Speed Train travel 2024
• China Travel in Different Seasons in 2024
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The China Guide is a Beijing-based travel agency that customizes private tours, educational student tours, and incentive trips in China. We have more than ten years of experience crafting vacation packages for tens of thousands of travelers from the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, and beyond. Our mission is to tailor the most authentic and hassle-free China tours that reflect each client's interests and preferences.

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Right from our initial inquiry, to the outstanding communication with Sarah, to local guides who met us at the train stations and airports we were in good hands with the staff at The China Guide. Our family of 7 Canadians spent 3 weeks traveling through China and I can't emphasize enough how we appreciated their support from start to finish. Don't hesitate and let The China Guide work with you to plan an itinerary that is perfect for you. Don W on Tripadvisor

First time bring my kids to China, a home which I left over 28 years ago. My American friend recommended this company to me and they did an fantastic job for our 13 days trip in China. Erick from BeiJing are so knowledgeable and arranged the trip perfectly according to the weather and activities. Betty from XiAn covered all of our activities with very relaxing feeling even though we only have 24 hours in XiAn. This is a totally worry free luxury trip, and gave my kids a great impression on their mommy's homeland. We will definitely use this company again to arrange our next trip to China. J W on Tripadvisor

I've been blessed to travel around the world, and am happy to say that The China Guide is one of the most professional and organized tour companies that I've worked with. John Shors, bestselling author of Unbound

Top Destinations

As China's most famous attraction, the Great Wall of China is an essential stop on all China tours. Commonly considered a wonder of the world, the Great Wall boasts a history of over 2,000 years and stretches more than 3,000 miles across several provinces of northern China, making it one of the most impressive ancient structures on the planet. Virtual Tour of the Great Wall of China Want to visit the Great Wall of China... Read more

Beijing is an enormous municipality abundant in history, culture, beautiful landscapes, and fine cuisine. One of the oldest and largest cities in the world, Beijing boasts a fascinating mixture of old and new, from ancient imperial palaces to modern skyscrapers, providing one-of-a-kind insight into Chinese culture and daily life that you can't get anywhere else. As the cultural and political capital of the country, Beijing is... Read more

Once the beginning and end point of the Silk Road, Xi'an was China's first imperial capital, serving as the center of government throughout several of the most important dynasties in Chinese history, including the famous Qin, Western Han, and Tang dynasties. Xi'an's fantastically rich culture and history have made it one of the most popular tourist destinations in china; in fact, according to our 2019 study on the preferences of... Read more

As China’s most populous city, and one of the largest in the world, Shanghai is alive with an energy quite unlike any other municipality in the Middle Kingdom. Home to the world’s second tallest building, Shanghai's futuristic skyline is instantly recognizable. However, it is not only the innovative infrastructure that makes the city such a unique destination; Shanghai’s undeniably turbulent history has also left its mark... Read more

Thanks to the memerizingly beautiful karst mountains that surround them, Guilin and Yangshuo have long inspired Chinese artists and travelers alike. Apart from their picture-perfect scenery, Guilin and Yangshuo are also home to a variety of unique ethnic minorities, including the Zhuang, Yao, and Miao, offering travelers the opportunity to experience the colorful ethnic culture of this area while enjoying its amazing landscapes... Read more

Located in the heart of Sichuan province, Chengdu is home to one of China's—and the world's—best-loved mammals: the giant panda. Apart from being the best place in China to see and interact with pandas, Chengdu is also a cultural melting pot. Influenced throughout its long history by Tibetan and Mongolian cultures, Chengdu's intriguing past has left its mark on the city's food and culture, and is evidenced in its many temples... Read more

Home to China's first national forest park, the Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area, Zhangjiajie boasts some of the most spectacular natural sceneries in China, made up of over 3,000 pillar-like mountains. These jaw-dropping mountains are covered with dense vegetation and are known internationally as the inspiration for the "floating mountains" seen in the film Avatar. Because of its stunning landscapes, Zhangjiajie's... Read more

When people think about the highest region on Earth, they imagine the snowy Himalayas and Buddhist monks dressed in bright robes. And while Tibet may sound to some like an incredibly remote region, those who are fortunate enough to visit it may find that the images they have of Tibet are quite right, with snow caps atop the towering Himalayan peaks and Buddhism still an important life part for many Tibetans. Tibet is indeed an... Read more

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According to the government notices, China’s Embassies have resumed issuing all categories of visas for foreigners from March 15, 2023. Travelers holding multi-year visas issued before March 28, 2020 – the date China closed its borders to most overseas visitors – would be allowed to use them so long as they are not expired. Visa-free entry has also restarted for foreigners. Starting from April...

February 20, 2020

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Where We're Featured

34 Essential Things to Know Before Visiting China

C hina has been a destination that has been a country of intrigue for many travelers since it opened its borders to the world in the 70s. It’s a country with a unique culture, a place where modernity and ancient traditions seamlessly collide, and where nature really feels out of this world.

No seriously, they did base Avatar on Zhangjiajie.

These days, more and more tourists from around the world want to visit China to experience the thrill of this ancient country and to tap into its rich history, and perhaps catch a glimpse of its bright future.

While modernization has meant that many western amenities are now available, it’s not exactly designed for western visitors.

Those who visit without knowing the major tips for travelers to China will find their experience to be a long list of troubles and catastrophes. In many cities, the English level of the locals isn’t great, so there won’t be anyone to help you out on the ground.

To make sure you don’t face any unwanted obstacles and hurdles that might catch the unprepared unaware, we’ve prepared this China travel guide to things to know before you visit China.

After two and a half years living and working in China, plus being able to travel the country extensively, I’ve pretty much made every mistake so you don’t have to.

1. WeChat Pay or AliPay is preferred

2. china recognizes only one currency – its own, 3. exchange currency at atms in china.

• 4. Don't forget to tell your bank you're visiting China

5. Prepare for Language Barriers (Especially in Banks)

• 6. Don't tip in China

7. Use your haggling skills

8. visas for china, 9. booking hotels in china, 10. travel insurance for china, 11. drinking water in china, 13. pharmacies in china, 14. finding a doctor in china, 15. coping with air pollution in china, 16. bring toilet paper, 17. bring hand soap or hand sanitizer, 18. get to the airport early, 19. expect delays, 20. catching buses and trains in china, 21. bring your passport when making a booking, 22. make use of local booking sites, 23. driving in china, 24. catching taxis in china, 25. eating street food in china, 26. spitting in china, 27. personal space, 28. taking photos in china, 29. mailing things home from china, 30. beware of chinese knock-offs.

• 31. Don't be shy in restaurants

32. Get a local SIM card in China

33. get a vpn for china, 34. download wechat (weixin), best times to visit china, final thoughts, pin to share on pinterest, things to know before you visit china.

In this guide, I’ve compiled some top tips for going to China that I wish I’d had before I got there.

Hopefully, these will help you discover what a wonderfully challenging and beautiful country this is.

Although more and more businesses (particularly large hotel chains and upscale restaurants) now accept Visa and Mastercard, the most widely accepted card scheme is UnionPay.

However, no win 2024, for the most part, when you are traveling in China, most places do not accept cash in China, they preferred WeChat Pay or AliPay only.

The official currency of China is the yuan , otherwise known as RMB or colloquially as ‘quai’.

Notes are available for 1RMB, 10RMB, 20RMB, 50RMB, and 100RMB. There are also 1RMB coins available, as well as smaller fractions of known as ‘Mao’ for the Chinese leader who adorns them.

Chinese businesses do not accept any other currency, including the US dollar or Hong Kong dollar.

While many Chinese banks do not accept foreign cards, larger chains such as HSBC can be used to withdraw local currency from foreign bank accounts. This usually offers a far better exchange rate than services such as Travelex.

International ATMs are available in all major cities but may be harder to find in less tourist friendly areas.

4. Don’t forget to tell your bank you’re visiting China

Before you go to China, make sure your bank knows you’re going to be using your credit or debit card over there. You don’t want your card being canceled mid-trip for unusual transactions.

If you need to do your banking face to face, you may need to bring a local to help translate.

Chinese people don’t often speak very good English, and their grammar is different to English, so simply using Google Translate or another translation app isn’t going to work for important things.

Very few bank employees will have sufficient English to help you, although in larger cities such as Beijing or Shanghai should have an English speaker on staff.

6. Don’t tip in China

The Chinese do not tip, and you aren’t expected to either.

Outside of chain stores and boutiques, it’s totally possible to practice your haggling skills. Never accept the marked price or first price offered.

With shrewd negotiation, it’s possible to get souvenirs and such for a fraction of the quoted price.

Tours in China – The folks at Get Your Guide  are the world’s largest online platform for booking tours, tourist attractions and activities. To see a list of all their tours click here .

One of the most important things to know when traveling to China is that they do not  offer visas on arrival. So before you travel to China you’ll need to arrange your visa well in advance!

When applying for a tourist visa, you’ll need to provide either a letter of invitation from a Chinese friend or relative, or provide a detailed itinerary of your intended trip. This includes return flights and confirmed reservations for your hotel bookings.

Visas can be applied for in person at the Chinese consulate or can be ordered via post.

Interested in teaching English to Chinese students? You can from the comfort of your home (or wherever you are)

If you want some flexibility with your itinerary, make use of sites that do not require an upfront payment to make bookings.

Booking.com  has over 50,000 properties in China including hotels, apartments, and hostels. You get free cancellation on most rooms. And their book now, pay later at check-in system allows you to lock in that rate with some flexibility. Check current hotel prices.

Chinese sites such as C-Trip require no deposit to book accommodation, and you can cancel without penalty once your visa is approved.

While China is a very safe country with relatively low crime, it pays to be prepared. So one of my top  China travel tips is don’t leave home without travel insurance!

If something unexpected does happen and you are not insured, you can be up for a lot of money AND inconvenience. For a small price to pay you get peace of mind – if you can’t afford insurance, you can’t afford to travel. 

For Americans, consider a big brand like Alliance Travel Insurance who are a world leader in the industry and trusted by millions (y TravelBlog are ambassadors).

Read More – 15 tips for buying the best travel insurance policy

One of the t hings NOT to do in China is drink the water.

For the most part, tap water in China is not drinkable. Bottled water can be purchased very cheaply at most restaurants and stores.

Chinese pharmacies offer both western and eastern medicine at very reasonable prices. Prescription medication can usually be purchased without a prescription (within reason) by simply providing the pharmacist with your identification.

Chinese hospitals can be crowded and daunting, but most major cities also have specialized hospitals catering to foreigners living and working in the country.

Even in the crowded public hospitals, in the large cities like Shanghai or Beijing many doctors will speak English. You may struggle in other areas of China, especially rural areas. Be sure to have a translator app on your phone. Allianz Travel Insurance has a handy Allyz app that can offer great assistance in these circumstances.

Larger cities in China have serious problems with air pollution, particularly in Beijing . Many locals swear by masks on days with hazardous air pollution, but it is safer to avoid exertion on days with particularly bad pollution.

One of the unusual things to know before going to China is that most Chinese toilets do not provide toilet paper. In fact, prepare yourself for the squat toilet, which if you haven’t seen before, is one of the biggest culture shocks!

Hotels and nicer restaurants, or even McDonalds (though not KFC), will have proper toilets with toilet paper available, but it’s always a good idea to carry a roll of toilet paper or a box of tissues!

Like toilet paper, hand soap is not standard in many Chinese bathrooms. Carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer with you just to be sure.

It is advisable to get to the airport three hours early for international flights to China and two hours early for domestic. Chinese airports can often be chaotic and overcrowded, so you’ll be grateful for that extra time.

In my two and a half years in China, I can count on one hand the number of flights that left on time. Be prepared to wait in the airport (or even on the plane) when flying from a Chinese airport.

China is serviced by a fantastic network of buses and trains, including the high-speed G-Trains that can whisk you across the country in a matter of hours.

Rates are extremely affordable by western standards. Train stations are usually very modern and have high security.

You can buy train tickets from machines which will usually have the function to translate to English, but if not, you may need to use Google Translate (or another translator app if you don’t get a VPN ) to help you communicate with the ticket officer.

I have had a Chinese reader tell me that people with passports (i.e. foreigners) can not buy train ticket from machine. And in Beijing, to buy a subway ticket you may need a passport. Have that translator app ready and ask!

Read More – 2 Week Itinerary for China. Best places to visit in China

You’ll need your passport when making a booking, and you can only book one ticket per passport.

Chinese booking sites such as C-Trip and eLong often offer better rates than western booking sites. Be sure to check both when planning your trip.

To drive a car in China, you will need to obtain a Chinese driver’s license. International Driving Permits or other foreign driver’s licenses are not recognized in China.  Only foreigners with a valid residence permit can apply for a Chinese driver’s license .

Since Chinese roads can be rather chaotic anyway, so you’re saved dealing wtih this kind of trauma!

Taxis in China are cheap and plentiful. Most taxi drivers will not speak English, so it’s a good idea to get your destination address written in Chinese by somebody at your hotel.

Chinese street food is delicious and it is everywhere! When choosing which vendor to purchase from, check to see where the locals are dining.

If you see a queue, it’s likely to be a safer bet.

The Chinese do not use handkerchiefs and tissues to clear their noses, and instead spit. While this can be a bit confronting when you first visit China, they’re similarly affronted when they see us blowing our noses and keeping it.

China is a crowded place, and the locals have become accustomed to a much smaller personal space than we are accustomed to in the west.

Don’t be surprised if you’re jostled or shoved when queuing – it’s just part of Chinese culture.

The Chinese love to take photographs, and don’t be surprised if a local tries to snap a sneaky photo of you or even comes up to ask for a picture with you.

Like in most other countries, it always pays to ask permission before photographing a person or a government building.

Likewise, if someone takes a photo of you without your permission, try not to get too upset about it, they are just not used to seeing foreigners.

If you don’t want your photo taken, simply say “Bu Yao Pāi Zhào” which means “don’t take photos.” Or simply saying “Bu Yao” would be enough to show what you mean.

With cheap prices and a huge variety of products, it can be easy to go over your luggage limit while shopping in China.

Thankfully, it is very affordable to post things home using China Post’s surface (sea) mail.

This can take one to two months but is a very affordable way to get your belongings home.

Shopping streets such as Nanjing Road in Shanghai are a great place to find a bargain, but be aware that knockoffs of prominent brands can be seized at the airport upon your return home.

31. Don’t be shy in restaurants

Chinese waiters and waitresses aren’t as proactive as you may be used to, so don’t be afraid to throw your hands up and call for the fuyian if you want service.

Also be aware that conventional western service is hard to come by. Don’t be surprised if your starter, main, and dessert all arrive at once while your friend still waits for their first dish.

If you want to always have access to the internet, be sure to get a local sim card.

China’s major carriers include China Telecom and China Unicom . SIM cards can be purchased at the airport or at most corner stores, and credit is quite affordable.

Most Chinese SIMs are locked to the province in which they are purchased, so you’ll pay roaming charges when texting, calling, or using data outside of this province.

Even then, the rate is far cheaper than international roaming.

You can also get really cheap eSims from Airalo. You can set it up so it’s ready to go as soon as you arrive. That way you don’t have to worry about finding a local sim card. See prices and availability here.

When you visit China keep in mind that its ‘Great Firewall’ blocks sites such as Facebook, Whatsapp, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, and most of the Google selection. That means no Gmail and no Google Maps.

If you want to access these while you’re visiting China, you’ll need to purchase a VPN (Virtual Private Network). Don’t worry, a VPN is totally legal and everyone does it.

When shopping for VPNs, check that they cover China – as many free options do not.

Get your vPN with NordVPN here . It’s what we use and is fantastic for China.

China’s premier messaging app is Weixin (WeChat in English) and everybody you meet – expats and locals alike – will have it. You even use it to pay for things, book a table in a restaurant and order food.

Without it, you simply cannot function in China. You can download the free app for free, but you need to have at least two friends already set up to be able to create an account. You can always ask your hotel accommodation to help you with this, if you don’t know anyone in China.

Once you’re all set up, it’s a great way to keep in touch with locals you meet along the way who may not have social media.

The best time to visit China is during the spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October).

These seasons offer comfortable weather and are considered tourism-friendly since they are not so overcrowded.

If you’re planning on visiting the countryside of China such as Yangshuo or the Karst Mountains, this time of year offers the perfect balance of mild temperatures and low rainfall.

Make sure you avoid Chinese New Year, which while is a huge cultural experience, it’s the busiest time of year and when the Chinese people from overseas return home to spend time with the family.

Most things are closed and the weather is cold since its always in January/February.

Chinese New Year may be a great time for locals but for tourists, it’s not the best time to visit China.

This is a massive country with a rich history, over thirty distinct cultural groups, and a huge variety of landscapes to explore – don’t limit yourself to the same few sites everybody else visits.

Most importantly, don’t be afraid to get off the beaten track. While Beijing , Shanghai , and Xi’an are worthy of their international fame, there is so much more to China than these cities and their cultural sites.

I hope my local insights and traveling to China tips help you have a memorable time.

More China Travel Tips

Need more tips for visiting China? Check out these other guides…

• What to Do in Beijing
• Things to Do in Shanghai
• Cycling Through Yangshuo Countryside China
• Climbing the Great Wall of China
• Hiking the Tiger Leaping Gorge in China
• 2 Week China Itinerary – Unmissable Places to Visit in China
• Incredible Things to do in Hong Kong

If you have already visited, do you have any tips for travel in China or other things to know before visiting China? Please share in the comments below!

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【6% Off】Pocket WiFi China: How to Choose & Use Guide

May 16, 2024

【6% Off】Popular Pocket Wifi China (Incl. HK) Plans

The price shown in the cards is already 6% Off Now! For travelers looking to stay connected in major cities across China, Hong Kong, and Macau, Trip.com's pocket Wi-Fi is an excellent choice. It supports seamless connectivity and uninterrupted high-speed internet, ideal for browsing, streaming, and staying connected with social media. The daily rental option is particularly advantageous for those who don't need a full week or multiple weeks of service, as it avoids the potential wastefulness of fixed weekly rentals.

• Country China(incl. HK)
• Data Plan Unlimited High Speed
• Number of Days 1 Day
• Price US$ 3.76
• Number of Days 7 Days
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• Number of Days 10 Days
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• 10 hours of battery life, pick up and return at the airport, use as much as you like
• 4G network, super smooth Internet access, no traffic limit, no speed limit
• Note that the coverage include all cities in China (incl. HK, Macau etc.) but the Pick up and Drop off address are both in HK Airport: Counter A16, Arrival Hall, Level 5, Terminal 1, Hong Kong International Airport, 7:00-23:00 (open all year round).

What is Pocket WiFi?

A Pocket WiFi is a compact, portable device that acts as a mobile hotspot, allowing multiple WiFi-enabled devices such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets to access the internet simultaneously. It is small and lightweight, making it highly convenient for carrying around. The device connects to the internet using mobile data, typically requiring a SIM card loaded with a data plan. Users can connect anywhere from 5 to 15 devices at once, making it an ideal choice for travelers who need consistent, secure internet access without depending on public WiFi. Additionally, Pocket WiFi units often come equipped with features like password protection, data usage tracking, and the capability to send and receive SMS messages.

How Does Pocket WiFi Work?

A Pocket WiFi works by using cellular network signals, similar to the way your mobile phone operates. Inside each Pocket WiFi device is a SIM card that connects to cellular networks to access internet services. The device captures this cellular signal and converts it into a WiFi signal, which is then broadcast to nearby devices. This allows WiFi-enabled devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops to connect to the internet wirelessly. The practical upshot is that wherever you are within range of a cellular signal, you can also gain access to the internet.

You simply charge the device, power it on, and connect your devices to the WiFi network it generates. Once connected, you can browse the internet, stream media, or keep in touch with friends and family as you would with any stable internet connection. The WiFi signal provided is secure and reliable, making it an excellent alternative to public WiFi, especially in situations where security might be a concern. Because of its portability, you can enjoy internet access on the move—whether you're commuting, in a café, or exploring new locations. Moreover, its ability to connect multiple devices makes it a cost-effective and convenient choice for groups, ensuring everyone stays connected without incurring individual data charges.

Comparison of Pocket WiFi China Providers

Most routers offered are 4G or 4G LTE. But majority of them only have weekly plans... By contrast, Trip.com pocket Wifi allows you to rent for exactly the number of days you need, avoiding unnecessary costs. Opting for plans with unlimited data is advisable, particularly if you plan to share photos and videos online, as this prevents reduced speeds after reaching daily limits. To help you find the best Pocket WiFi for China,I compare the different providers from 3 perspectives.

• Trip.com : This pocket Wi-Fi for China provides unlimited high-speed 4G data at just $3.78 per day . It covers all cities in China , including Hong Kong and Macau. Trip.com Wifi daily pricing let you enjoy fast, reliable internet access throughout major Chinese cities without worrying about data limits or speed throttling. With a weekly total of only $26.46, this service is perfect for both short-term visitors and long-term stays, offering great value and high-speed connectivity for anyone looking for a cost-effective solution tailored to their own schedule and needs.
• Roamingman: Known for its relatively cheap price, Roamingman offers a week's access for slightly over $25. This service also offers airport pick-up options and includes penalties for late returns and lost equipment. Its delivery service varies in cost depending on location​
• BeFreeTour : This service offers a week’s worth of connectivity at approximately $31.15. The device needs to be picked up at Chinese airports, as delivery options are not provided. The pricing is straightforward and the service is penalized for lost or damaged devices, so careful handling is recommended​​.
• Rent 'n Connect : Offers pocket Wi-Fi that can be reserved for the entire duration of your stay, making it a versatile choice for long-term visitors. You can pick up the mobile hotspot at supported airports or have it delivered to your hotel or requested location prior to your arrival. This service provides seamless connectivity with easy return options, and the rental price is structured based on the duration of your stay, which typically starts at around $75 for a week​.
• Holafly: Provides an unlimited data eSIM for China, which can be a great alternative to traditional pocket Wi-Fi devices if your phone supports eSIM technology. This service allows you to stay connected without the need for physical pickup or returns, offering a hassle-free way to access the internet throughout your stay in China
• 3GSolutions : This provider offers pocket Wi-Fi rental with VPN access, allowing you to connect to typically restricted services like Google and Facebook. The service includes options for high data usage with no speed throttling, and you can top up extra GBs as needed. Devices are delivered to hotels or can be picked up at airports such as Shanghai Pudong. The cost for the VPN service is $12.99, and a typical delivery within major cities like Shanghai and Beijing costs about $3.50. This service ensures you stay connected throughout your stay with the flexibility of getting your device right where you are staying or upon arrival.
• My Webspot : Offers pocket Wi-Fi with unlimited internet access and includes a VPN service for secure and unrestricted browsing. This provider ensures fast 4G+ connections, with typical service plans allowing for daily high-speed data usage, making it suitable for heavy data users. Their service includes convenient delivery and pick-up options, catering to travelers' needs for flexibility and ease of use during their stay in China.

Comparing Pocket WiFi, eSIM, and SIM Card in China

Source from Unsplash

Pocket WiFi

• Good for: Travelers needing internet access for multiple devices at the same time, ideal for groups or areas with poor mobile data coverage. It's also helpful for those who require a temporary internet solution.
• What to know: This portable device allows you to connect 5-15 devices to the internet simultaneously. It’s very convenient for staying connected on the go and can be shared among several users. You can also connect your phone, iPad, Laptop and more devices.
• Keep in mind: Pocket WiFi devices need regular charging, and carrying one means having an additional item in your travel gear.
• Good for: Those who need quick setup with a local number. Inserting a SIM card from a local network lets you enjoy fast internet right away. It’s a cheap and reliable solution, often cheaper than international roaming.
• What to know: SIM cards are easy to use—just pop one into your phone and you're connected to the local network. There’s no battery to worry about, and you can keep your usual phone number and data separate.
• Keep in mind: You have to physically change SIM cards when you want to switch carriers or numbers, which might be inconvenient during travel.
• Good for: Frequent travelers who dislike swapping SIM cards and those who need dual-SIM capabilities. eSIMs are particularly suitable for people who want to start using mobile services immediately upon arrival without the risk of losing or damaging a physical card.
• What to know: eSIMs are built into your device and can be activated without a physical SIM swap . They’re secure and increasingly popular as they allow instant connection upon reaching your destination.
• Keep in mind: eSIM compatibility is not universal. Only certain smartphones support this technology, which can limit your options if your device isn’t compatible.

How to Use a Pocket WiFi in China

• Collect Your WiFi Router: You can pick up your device at the airport on the day of your departure or after 8 pm the day before. Have your order number ready or confirm the details beforehand to streamline the collection process. Note: Pick-up Address: Counter A16, Arrival Hall, Level 5, Terminal 1, Hong Kong International Airport, 7:00-23:00 (open all year round)
• Prepare the Device: Before you depart, ensure that the Pocket WiFi is fully charged. It's also important to turn off the data roaming function on your mobile phone to avoid unnecessary charges.
• Activate and Connect: Once you arrive at your destination, turn on the WiFi device, select the SSID displayed on the back of the case, and enter the password to connect. You can now start using the internet.
• Return the Device: On your return to Hong Kong, simply drop off the WiFi egg at the designated airport counter. The counter, located at Counter A16, Arrival Hall, Level 5, Terminal 1 of Hong Kong International Airport, is open from 7 am to 11 pm all year round.

【Compensation Fees for Lost Items】

Tips about Buying a Pocket WiFi in China

When planning to purchase a Pocket WiFi in China, several key factors will guide your decision.

FAQs about Pocket Wifi China

Does portable wifi work in china, which is better pocket wifi or data, how to get mobile internet in china.

Pocket Wifi China Guide

• 1. 【6% Off】Popular Pocket Wifi China (Incl. HK) Plans
• 2. What is Pocket WiFi?
• 3. How Does Pocket WiFi Work?
• 4. Comparison of Pocket WiFi China Providers
• 5. Comparing Pocket WiFi, eSIM, and SIM Card in China
• 6. How to Use a Pocket WiFi in China
• 7. Tips about Buying a Pocket WiFi in China

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Garden tours, plants sales and more ways to spend time among flowers

Visit Maine's botanical gardens or get a sneak peek of what your neighbors are growing in their back yards.

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One of the loveliest ways to ease yourself fully out of the post-winter blahs and into springtime is to quit being a wallflower and instead surround yourself with living, blooming plants.

From botanical gardens to plant sales and garden tours, it’s time to make like the Scarecrow in “The Wizard of Oz” and while away the hours, conferring with flowers.

The waterfall at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay. Photo by Tory Paxson, Courtesy of Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

TOTALLY BOTANICAL

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay is open for the season, daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Maine Days are May 31 to June 2, when anyone with a Maine driver’s license or state ID gets in for free. Ditto for dads/father figures on Father’s Day (June 16). Advance registration is required. With more than 300 acres of gardens and natural spaces, including a waterfall, there will be plenty to see, smell and bask in the scenery.

Here are more things to do in Boothbay

A tour group walks on the boardwalk at Viles Arboretum in Augusta. Joe Phelan/Kennebec Journal

Viles Arboretum is a botanical garden in Augusta with 6 miles of trails and more than 20 botanical collections. It’s open daily from sunrise to sunset, and admission is free. There are 224 acres with all sorts of flora and fauna to discover. Leashed dogs are welcome, and the visitor center is open from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.

Viles Arboretum offers medicinal plant walks, and although the May 18 session is full, you can still register for the June 15 and Sept. 14 events, lead by herbalist, homeopath and flower essence practitioner Debra Bluth. Tickets are $25. Advertisement

The Mount Desert Land & Garden Preserve has four areas to explore on its property in Northeast Harbor: the Asticou Azelea Garden (dawn to dusk daily), the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden (noon to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday from July 9 to Sept. 8, reservations required), Thuya Garden (dawn to dusk daily, June 15 to Oct. 14) and Little Long Pond Natural Lands (hiking trails and carriage roads open dawn to dusk daily). On June 26, at the Wildflowers of Little Long Pond event, participants can wander around the garden’s fields and forest, spotting wildflowers along the way while practicing how to identify them.

Joyce Saltman, right, and Beth Anisbeck embrace a tree for 60 seconds during a tree hugging event sponsored by Portland Parks and Recreation, at Deering Oaks Park last year. Carl D. Walsh/Staff Photographer

TOURS AND MORE

2nd Annual Tree Hugging 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. Deering Oaks Park, Portland. portlandmaine.gov The tree hugging is a family-friendly community gathering to celebrate Portland’s many trees. Park ranger Liz Collado will lead a sensory awakening and forest bathing session. Along with tree hugging, there will be a storytime, and you can touch a forestry truck and meet naturalist Noah Querido and Portland city arborist Mark Reiland. Just down the road, you’ll find Fessenden Park, on the corner of Brighton and Deering Avenues. The tulips have arrived, and it’s worth a visit to see them.

McLaughlin Garden Lilac Festival 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 24. McLaughlin Garden and Homestead, 97 Main St., South Paris, $5. mclaughlingardens.org You’ll find more than 125 varieties of lilacs at the McLaughlin Garden Lilac Festival. Explore on your own or take a guided tour led by a horticulturist. There will also be family-friendly activities, and you can shop for native and unusual plants.

4th annual Woodfords Community Garden Tour 1-4 p.m. June 8. Woodfords Corner Community in Back Cove, Deering Highlands, Oakdale and Deering Center, $20 suggested donation. woodfordscorner.org Presented by Friends of Woodfords Corner, this self-guided tour features at least 10 gardens. As you make your way down the list, you’ll find yourself pleasantly surprised by all of the hidden havens bursting with flowers, plants and impressive yardscaping elements.

Peony Society of Maine 23rd annual Garden Tour 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 8 and 15. Both tours start at 1348 Ohio St., Bangor, $5 donation. peonysocietyofmaine.net You’ll visit multiple gardens in Bangor, Winterport, Ripley and St. Albans, and your senses will be filled with countless peonies. A peony plant will be raffled off at the end of each tour. Advertisement

Hidden Gardens of Historic Bath 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 22. Sagadahoc Preservation Inc., 880 Washington St., Bath, $40. sagadahocpreservation.org The Hidden Gardens of Historic Bath house and garden tour features several homes in North Bath. Every stop on the tour will be a treat for your senses and may motivate you to make some of your own magic when you get back home.

Garden Conservancy Open Garden Days 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 29. Beckett Castle Rose Garden, Singles Road, Cape Elizabeth, $10. gardenconservancy.org You’ll see plenty of roses as well as ocean views at Beckett Castle, which sits right on the water, with views of five lighthouses. The castle was built in 1871, and its rose garden features more than 70 varieties of heirloom roses. A 50-foot stone tower doubles as the rose arbor entrance to the castle.

PICK A PLANT SALE

Tate House Museum’s Annual Plant and Herb Sale 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 18. Tate House Museum, 1267 Westbrook St., Portland, 207-774-6177.  tatehouse.org The wide selection includes perennials divided from the museum’s 18th century reproduction garden. Visitors can also make their own “seed bombs” and get a sneak peak at a new installation by artist Ashley Page from 10 a.m. to noon.

Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland Spring Plant S ale 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. May 18, Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, 217 Landing Road, Westbrook, 207-854-9771.  arlgp.org   Perennials, house plants and more will be on sale, and plants that don’t have specific pricing are “name your own fee.” Anyone interested in donating plants or pots to the sale should send a message to [email protected] .

Taking Root Plant Sale 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 1, Tom Settlemire Community Garden, Maurice Drive, Brunswick, 207-729-7694.  btlt.org This annual sale is organized by the Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust. Proceeds benefit the Common Good Garden, which provides food and gardening education for the Mid Coast Hunger Prevention Program. Master gardeners will be on hand to help shoppers choose their best options.

Scarborough Land Trust Native Plant Sale and Spring Festival 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 1, Broadturn Farm, 388 Broadturn Road, Scarborough, 207-289-1199.  scarboroughlandtrust.org Visitors will find native plants, food vendors, local artisans, guided nature walks and activities for kids. To preorder plants, visit the Scarborough Land Trust website.

Maine Audubon Society Native Plants Sale and Festival 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., June 8, Gilsland Farm Audubon Center, 20 Gilsland Farm Road, Falmouth, 207-781-2330.  maineaudubon.org More than 75 species of native wildflowers, shrubs and tree seedlings will be available, along with workshops, info tables and experts.

Staff writer Megan Gray contributed to this report.

Related Headlines

Headed to Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens? Here’s what else to check out in Boothbay

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