China Travel Guide

Explore China's culturally important attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, accommodations, local culture, safety and health, and nearby destinations with this comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to China

China, the world’s most populous country, is a fascinating destination that offers a blend of ancient traditions and modernity. Comprising of diverse regions, China offers a range of experiences from exploring cultural and historical attractions to natural landscapes. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate through China’s many attractions, activities, food, local culture, and logistics.

List of Places to Visit in China

When visiting China, there are a variety of places to explore. Here are some of China’s top attractions, and must-see destinations:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

China is full of fascinating museums and historical landmarks that reveal the country’s rich cultural heritage. Here are some must-visit sites:

  • The Great Wall of China: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 13,000-mile long wall dates back to 7th century BC and offers incredible views.
  • The Forbidden City: A former imperial palace and home to emperors for over 500 years, this palace complex is the world’s largest imperial palace.
  • The Terracotta Army: Discovered in the 1970s, this army of terracotta warriors was buried with China’s first emperor and is a testament to the country’s military history.
  • The Shaolin Temple: Famous for its Kung Fu monks, the Shaolin Temple is a Buddhist monastery known for its martial arts tradition.
  • The Summer Palace: Once a summer retreat for the emperor, this palace offers beautifully landscaped gardens, lakes, bridges, and pavilions.

Natural Attractions of China: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

China has a stunning array of natural attractions that range from rugged mountains to serene lakes. Here are some must-see places:

  • The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Known for its towering sandstone pillars and lush greenery, this park is great for hiking, rock climbing, and bird watching.
  • The Yellow Mountains: One of China’s most popular and picturesque mountain ranges with hot springs, cloud-walking, and cable car rides.
  • The Li River: With its dramatic karst limestone peaks, scenic villages, and bamboo raft rides, Li River is one of China’s most stunning natural landscapes.
  • Jiuzhaigou National Park: With its turquoise-colored lakes, waterfalls, and Tibetan villages, Jiuzhaigou National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for nature lovers.
  • Mount Everest Base Camp: A trekkers’ paradise, the base camp of the world’s highest mountain boasts incredible views and a challenging ascent.

Hiking/Biking Routes of China

China offers some of the most scenic hiking and biking routes, from high mountain trails to serene countryside paths. Here are some of the best:

  • The Tiger Leaping Gorge: Considered one of the world’s deepest gorges, this trail offers stunning views along the way.
  • The Li River Bike Route: A scenic bike route along the Li River with picturesque villages and beautiful landscapes.
  • The Great Wall of China: A hike along the Great Wall of China offers stunning views of the country’s landscape.
  • The Golden Triangle Trek: Spanning Yunnan, Sichuan, and Tibet, this 15-day trek takes you through remote villages, high mountain passes, and stunning natural scenery.
  • The Wuyi Mountain Bike Route: A challenging bike route that takes you through a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning vistas and tea plantations.

Best Things to Do in China: Activities and Tours

Besides exploring China’s cultural and natural attractions, there are a variety of things to do, such as:

  • Attending a traditional Chinese tea ceremony
  • Taking a Chinese cooking class
  • Visiting traditional markets and street food stalls
  • Watching a Chinese opera or acrobatic show
  • Taking part in a traditional Chinese calligraphy class

Week-Long Itinerary for China

Here is a week-long itinerary to help you make the most of your trip to China:

Day Destination Activities
1 Beijing Visit the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City
2 Xi’an Visit the Terracotta Army and explore the Muslim Quarter
3 Shanghai Explore the Yu Garden and the Bund
4 Hangzhou Visit the West Lake and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony
5 Yangshuo Take a bamboo raft ride on the Li River and explore the countryside
6 Zhangjiajie Hike in the national park and visit the Avatar Mountains
7 Chengdu Visit the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base and try spicy Sichuan cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of China

Chinese cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with each region offering its own specialties. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Peking Duck: A signature dish of Beijing, this roasted duck is juicy, tender, and served with pancakes and scallions.
  • Xiaolongbao: A dumpling filled with hot soup and meat, these are a Shanghai specialty.
  • Hotpot: A communal soup where various meats, vegetables, and noodles are cooked at the table.
  • Gong Bao Chicken: A spicy stir-fry dish with diced chicken, peanuts, and vegetables.
  • Mapo Tofu: A spicy and flavorful Sichuan dish made with tofu, ground pork, and spicy sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Tea: China is world-famous for its tea, with many varieties such as green, black, white, and oolong.
  • Baijiu: A strong alcoholic drink made from grains, Baijiu is often served at business meetings and formal occasions.
  • Tsingtao Beer: China’s most famous beer, Tsingtao, is a refreshing and light lager.

Where to Stay in China: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

China has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some suggestions:

  • Luxury Hotels: The Four Seasons Beijing, the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai, and The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong are some of the best luxury hotels in China.
  • Hostels: Backpackers can find affordable accommodations in hostels such as The Beijing Downtown Backpackers Hostel, HI Shanghai Hostel, and Blue Mountain Hostel in Guangzhou.
  • Guesthouses: For a more local experience, guesthouses like the Old Chengdu Club in Chengdu and the No Name Guesthouse in Yangshuo offer affordable, comfortable accommodation with a personal touch.

What to Buy in China: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

China is known for its handicrafts, artwork, and unique souvenirs. Here are some must-buy items:

  • Silk: China is famous for its silk, and you can find beautiful silk scarves, dresses, and accessories in many markets.
  • Tea: Whether you’re in Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou, you can find tea shops selling a variety of teas like oolong, green, and black tea.
  • Calligraphy and Painting: You can find beautiful calligraphy scrolls and hand-painted artwork in shops and markets all over China.
  • Jade: Jade figurines, jewelry, and decorative objects are popular souvenirs in China.
  • Traditional Clothing: Qipao dresses and Tang suits are traditional Chinese clothing items that make for unique and beautiful gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of China

China has a rich culture and unique customs that visitors should be aware of. Here are some cultural norms to keep in mind:

  • Respect elders and authority figures.
  • Avoid public displays of affection.
  • It’s polite to refuse food or drink multiple times before accepting.
  • Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home.
  • Avoid touching people’s heads or pointing your feet at them.

Best Time to Visit China

The best time to visit China depends on the region and what you want to do. The peak travel season is from April to October when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, the summer months can be hot and humid. Winter is a good time to visit regions like Harbin and Tibet for winter activities like skiing and ice festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of China

Do:

  • Carry toilet paper and hand sanitizer with you at all times.
  • Bargain and haggle when shopping in markets.
  • Try out local street food and delicacies.
  • Speak loudly and clearly when in large groups.
  • Learn some basic Mandarin phrases like “nǐ hǎo” (hello) and “xièxiè” (thank you).

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water unless it has been boiled or purified.
  • Wear revealing clothing in conservative areas.
  • Touch or move objects in ancient temples and holy sites.
  • Shake hands too firmly or too long.
  • Criticize the Chinese government or politics.

Safety and Health

Safety in China

China is generally a safe country, but it’s always advisable to take the usual safety precautions like keeping valuables safe and being aware of your surroundings. Be extra vigilant in crowded areas like train stations and beware of scams.

Health in China

Before traveling to China, make sure you get the necessary vaccines and medications. Mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue and Zika are prevalent in some regions during the summer months. Be careful of street food, and drink bottled water or boiled water whenever possible.

Getting to China: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near China

There are dozens of international airports in China, and some of the busiest includes:

  • Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
  • Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
  • Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)
  • Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU)
  • Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)

Bus Stations Near China

China has an extensive bus network that connects many cities and towns. Long-distance buses are relatively cheap, but they can be slow and uncomfortable.

Other Options

  • Train: China has an extensive rail network that connects most of the country.
  • Taxi: Taxis are easily available in most cities, but make sure to agree on a fare before getting in.
  • Bicycle: Bicycles are available for rent in many cities, and it’s a great way to explore local neighborhoods.

How to Get Around in China

China is a large country, and getting around can be challenging for first-time visitors. Here are some transportation options:

  • Metro: Most major cities have a reliable and affordable metro system.
  • Bus: City buses offer cheap transportation, but they can be crowded and slow.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but it’s advisable to use metered taxis or agree on a price upfront.
  • High-speed trains: China has the world’s largest high-speed rail network, making it easy to travel between cities quickly and comfortably.

Where to Go Next from China: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

China is well-connected to nearby countries, and visitors can easily explore other destinations from China. Here are some suggestions:

  • Japan: With direct flights from Beijing and Shanghai, Japan is a popular destination for China visitors.
  • Vietnam: From Kunming, visitors can take a short flight to Vietnam, a country known for its rich culture and cuisine.
  • South Korea: China has several direct flights to South Korea, a country with a fascinating history and modern culture.
  • Hong Kong: A separate region from mainland China, Hong Kong is just a short flight or train ride away.

Conclusion

China is a fascinating country with a wealth of attractions, activities, culture, and food to discover. Whether you’re exploring ancient monuments or natural wonders, hiking or biking, or indulging in local cuisine, China is sure to delight all types of visitors. With this comprehensive guide, you’re all set to explore the best of China.