China
China, the third largest country in the world, lies on the eastern edge of Asia and is home to 1.25 billion people—one-fifth of the world’s population. It has become one of the leading tourist destinations, and this China Travel Guide highlights why it’s no surprise. This vast nation boasts a rich and glorious history.
Traveling through China allows you to experience its many faces—traditional villages and industrialized cities, modern malls and authentic markets, breathtaking natural landscapes and fascinating urban views, and above all, the unique and captivating Chinese culture.
Among China’s most famous landmarks, essential to any comprehensive China Travel Guide, are the Great Wall, one of the Wonders of the World; the Forbidden City in the capital, Beijing; the Stone Forest in Yunnan; the panda reserves of Sichuan; the Terracotta Warriors; and the giant Buddha statue at Mount Emei. And this is only a small part of what awaits visitors to China. Add to that the vibrant culture, customs, and festivals that reveal themselves in every visit, immersing travelers in a whole new and unfamiliar world.
Frequently Asked Questions about China
China offers countless travel opportunities for all ages, whether on an independent trip or an organized tour. The most popular routes include:
From north to south: Beijing – Xi’an – Yunnan Province – Guilin – Shanghai.
From south to north: Hong Kong – Shenzhen – Guilin – Zhangjiajie – Chengdu – Shanghai.
This is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to possible itineraries, as the options are almost endless. You can combine the suggested routes, and for those with less time, it is recommended to focus on fewer regions and plan a trip around a smaller geographic area. For those wishing to go further afield, there are additional fascinating areas such as the Chinese Silk Road, Guizhou Province, the Tibetan Plateau, and the city of Xiamen.
Flying to China? Here’s a guide to help you prepare for your next trip »
Those who choose to travel independently can plan where and when to go, set their own schedule and priorities, and use information gathered from books, online resources, and friends who have already visited and can share recommendations. When planning transportation, it’s important to note that tourists are not allowed to drive in China without a Chinese driver’s license, which means you’ll need to rely on alternative ways of getting to different sites and regions.
While not everyone finds it appealing to join an organized group tour, follow a fixed daily schedule, or travel with strangers, organized tours can be an excellent solution for those who want to explore China without dealing with the logistical challenges and extensive preparation that such a complex trip requires. If you choose this option, make sure to select a tour that matches your preferences in every aspect: cost, what is included in the price, choice of destinations, style of activities, free time, meals, transfers, ground arrangements, and accommodations.
China is a vast, diverse, and fascinating country. It’s impossible—and not advisable—to try to cover it all in a single trip. The recommendation is to plan a trip of at least 10 days and avoid attempting to visit too many sites or cities. Instead, focus on one or two provinces. For example, concentrate on an urban center like Beijing or Shanghai, and from there take excursions to one or two of the stunning natural attractions nearby.
The local currency is the Korean Won (KRW). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s useful to carry some cash for small shops, markets, and street vendors.
Here are five must-have experiences in China that should not be missed:
-
Beijing – The Capital
As the nation’s proud capital, Beijing is both a symbol of China’s history and a showcase of its future ambitions. From ancient landmarks to modern architecture, it offers a unique glimpse into where China has come from and where it is heading. -
The Great Wall of China
No trip to China is complete without visiting the Great Wall. Stretching over 6,000 km, this immense defensive system was built to protect against northern nomadic tribes. Walking along its winding paths is both awe-inspiring and humbling. -
Shopping Experiences
Markets in China are an adventure in themselves, overflowing with scale, variety, and tempting prices. But the real highlight is the enormous shopping malls in major tourist cities. Favorites include the Silk Market and Pearl Market in Beijing, and the bustling Taobao Mall in Shanghai. -
Rice Terraces
A breathtaking example of human ingenuity transforming nature into art. The rice terraces create vibrant, layered landscapes that change with the seasons. Top spots include Yuanyang Terraces in Yunnan Province and the Longji Terraces near Guilin. -
Cultural and Folklore Performances
Across China you can enjoy spectacular shows, from grand water performances and world-class acrobatics to colorful dance, music, and theater based on ancient myths. Don’t miss Kung Fu demonstrations, traditional operas, and acrobatic circuses that combine movement, costumes, lighting, and sound into unforgettable cultural experiences.
Here are five must-have experiences in China that should not be missed:
-
Beijing – The Capital
As the nation’s proud capital, Beijing is both a symbol of China’s history and a showcase of its future ambitions. From ancient landmarks to modern architecture, it offers a unique glimpse into where China has come from and where it is heading. -
The Great Wall of China
No trip to China is complete without visiting the Great Wall. Stretching over 6,000 km, this immense defensive system was built to protect against northern nomadic tribes. Walking along its winding paths is both awe-inspiring and humbling. -
Shopping Experiences
Markets in China are an adventure in themselves, overflowing with scale, variety, and tempting prices. But the real highlight is the enormous shopping malls in major tourist cities. Favorites include the Silk Market and Pearl Market in Beijing, and the bustling Taobao Mall in Shanghai. -
Rice Terraces
A breathtaking example of human ingenuity transforming nature into art. The rice terraces create vibrant, layered landscapes that change with the seasons. Top spots include Yuanyang Terraces in Yunnan Province and the Longji Terraces near Guilin. -
Cultural and Folklore Performances
Across China you can enjoy spectacular shows, from grand water performances and world-class acrobatics to colorful dance, music, and theater based on ancient myths. Don’t miss Kung Fu demonstrations, traditional operas, and acrobatic circuses that combine movement, costumes, lighting, and sound into unforgettable cultural experiences.
Getting mobile data in China can be tricky due to internet restrictions and SIM registration requirements. While SIM cards are available at airports and stores from providers like China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom, the process may take time and require a passport. Buying an international or eSIM online before your trip is the easiest option — it ensures fast setup, English support, and access to essential apps right upon arrival.
Order your China SIM card or eSIM here for instant connectivity>>
Navigating transportation in China can be challenging due to language barriers and limited signage in English. Booking with KiwiTaxi ensures a worry-free arrival — your driver will meet you at the airport with your name sign and drive you straight to your hotel or Airbnb without delays or confusion.
China - The Short Guide
Weather in China
The weather in China varies greatly due to its vast size and diverse geography, meaning your experience will differ depending on the region and season you visit. The country has four distinct seasons:
-
Spring (March–May): Mild and pleasant in most areas, with average temperatures ranging from 10–20°C (50–68°F). This is the season for blooming flowers, especially the famous cherry blossoms in Beijing and lush greenery across the countryside.
-
Summer (June–August): Generally hot and humid, with temperatures often surpassing 30°C (86°F). Southern and eastern regions experience heavy rainfall during the monsoon, while northern areas tend to stay drier but equally warm.
-
Autumn (September–November): Widely considered the best time to visit, with comfortable temperatures averaging 15–25°C (59–77°F), clear skies, and stunning autumn colors across parks and mountain landscapes.
-
Winter (December–February): Cold and dry in the north, with temperatures dropping well below 0°C (32°F) in cities like Beijing and Harbin, where ice and snow festivals are a highlight. In contrast, southern China remains relatively mild, offering a more temperate escape from the harsh cold.
Here you can see the weather by month >
China Travel Guide – Flights to China
China is served by several major international airports, with Beijing Capital International Airport and Shanghai Pudong International Airport being the busiest and most prominent gateways. These airports handle tens of millions of passengers annually, connecting China to destinations worldwide. Other major hubs include Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, Hong Kong International Airport, and Beijing Daxing International Airport, one of the newest and most advanced in the world.
From these airports, travelers can easily access domestic flights to nearly every region of China, including popular destinations such as Xi’an, Chengdu, Guilin, and Kunming, as well as remote areas like Tibet and Xinjiang.
Find the best flights to China with Kiwi.com — compare routes, prices, and airlines easily>>
Comfortable and Safe Airport Transfers in China
Navigating transportation in China can be challenging due to language barriers and limited signage in English. Booking with KiwiTaxi ensures a worry-free arrival — your driver will meet you at the airport with your name sign and drive you straight to your hotel or Airbnb without delays or confusion.
Book your China airport transfer with KiwiTaxi here>>
China Travel Guide – What to Do in China
The range of activities and experiences in China is truly extraordinary, making it a destination for every kind of traveler—from families to solo adventurers. Nature lovers can marvel at breathtaking landscapes such as the karst mountains of Guilin, the rainbow-colored Danxia landforms in Zhangye, or the majestic peaks of Huangshan (Yellow Mountain). For cultural exploration, visit the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven in Beijing, the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, or explore traditional water towns like Zhouzhuang near Shanghai.
China also offers vibrant festivals and cultural performances, from the Spring Festival (Chinese New Year) to dragon boat races and elaborate opera shows. The southern city of Guangzhou blends modern skylines with traditional Cantonese culinary heritage, while Chengdu is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere and giant panda reserves. For something unique, Tibet offers dramatic Himalayan landscapes and spiritual monasteries.
In Shanghai and Beijing, you’ll encounter an unforgettable mix of history and modernity: imperial palaces standing beside futuristic skyscrapers, bustling shopping streets, and a nightlife scene that rivals the world’s best.
China Travel Guide – What to Do in China with Kids
China is an excellent destination for families, offering countless attractions that are both fun and educational for children. In Beijing, families shouldn’t miss the Beijing Zoo and Aquarium, where kids can see giant pandas, dolphins, and other exotic wildlife. The Temple of Heaven Park is another highlight—children can run and play while watching locals practice tai chi, dance, or fly kites.
In Shanghai, families will love Shanghai Disneyland, one of the most advanced Disney parks in the world, featuring thrilling rides, themed lands, and spectacular shows. Another must-see is the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, featuring an impressive underwater tunnel that showcases marine life from around the globe.
For nature and adventure, the Great Wall of China is an unforgettable experience for kids to climb, explore, and learn about history in a hands-on way. Families traveling to Chengdu can visit the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, where children can observe pandas playing, eating, and napping in a natural environment.
China also offers quirky and fun attractions, such as the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, which spark children’s imagination, as well as theme parks like Chimelong Safari Park in Guangzhou.
With its blend of history, culture, wildlife, and theme-park magic, China offers endless opportunities for family adventures.
Explore China with Viator — from the Great Wall to Shanghai, amazing tours at great prices>>
China Travel Guide – Recommended Itinerary in China
One of the best ways to experience China is by following a well-planned itinerary that balances its rich history, natural wonders, and dynamic modern cities. Travelers often start in Beijing, exploring iconic landmarks such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China, before continuing to Xi’an to witness the legendary Terracotta Warriors.
From there, you can journey south to Chengdu, home of the giant pandas and a gateway to Sichuan’s spicy cuisine and cultural traditions. Another highlight is Guilin and Yangshuo, where breathtaking karst mountains and river cruises on the Li River create unforgettable landscapes. For modern contrasts, head to Shanghai, a city of futuristic skyscrapers, historic Bund architecture, and vibrant shopping districts.
If time allows, consider extending your trip to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, whose dramatic sandstone pillars inspired the floating mountains in Avatar, or to Yunnan Province, renowned for its diverse ethnic cultures and stunning scenery. End your journey in Shanghai or Beijing, perfect for last-minute shopping, cultural performances, and soaking in China’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Here you can read about the perfect 10-day itinerary in China >
SIM card for China
Getting mobile data in China can be tricky due to internet restrictions and SIM registration requirements. While SIM cards are available at airports and stores from providers like China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom, obtaining one may take time and require a passport. Buying an international or eSIM online before your trip is the easiest option — it ensures fast setup, English support, and access to essential apps right upon arrival.
Order your China SIM card or eSIM here for instant connectivity>>
