travel to china guide

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China Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

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

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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.

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

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• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

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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
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• 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
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• 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

China City Guide

Cities by alphabet.

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China Tourism

China Tours

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!

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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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China. The name alone makes you want to get packing. It's going places, so jump aboard, go along for the ride and see where it's headed.

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