China Travel Guide

Where Every Step in China

Tells a New Story

About Me

Having spent nearly half of my life overseas, I’ve explored 18 countries across four continents. Traveling has never been just about ticking destinations off a list—it’s about the experiences, the people, and the cultures I’ve encountered along the way. Every journey adds a new chapter, shaping who I am as a person and as a blogger.

China Travel Guide

Language

Mandarin Chinese (official language).

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY); 1 USD ≈ 7.10 CNY (2025).

Capital

Beijing, home to the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square.

Power Plugs

Type C / D / G

 

Religious

Islam

Safety

China is generally safe, with low crime rates, but travelers should be cautious of scams in tourist-heavy areas.

Climate

China has varied climates, from cold winters in the north to tropical summers in the south.

 

 

Apps

Avas Ride and Uber

 

Overview

China is one of the most culturally diverse and geographically vast countries in the world.

 

 

From the ancient history of Beijing to the ultramodern skyline of Shanghai, the country offers a mix of history, culture, and technological innovation.

 

If you’re planning a China travel tour package, you’ll experience everything from the Great Wall’s secluded ruins to the bustling metropolises of Guangzhou and Shenzhen. 

 

The best places to visit in China include historic landmarks, vibrant food markets, and stunning countryside.

 

China is also well-connected, with high-speed trains reaching up to 400mph and a vast domestic flight network. 

 

Flying is the most efficient way to cover long distances, with major airlines including China Southern, Air China, China Eastern, and Shanghai Airlines.

 

For international travelers, the best airports to fly into China are Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG).

 

Best Flight Deals to China

Check out the best flight deals for flights to China on Skyscanner and start planning your trip!

Visa Information for China

Most travelers require a China visa to enter. Chinese visa applications must be completed before arrival.

  • China travel guidelines require most nationalities, including the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, to apply for a Chinese tourist visa (L visa).
  • Some countries like Singapore and Japan enjoy visa-free entry for up to 15 days.

China Visa Costs:

  • Single-entry Tourist Visa (L): $140 USD (for US citizens), varies by nationality.

For more details, check the China visa application page.

Using eSIM for Internet, Calls, and Travel in China

China has strict internet regulations, so many Western apps like Google, Facebook, and WhatsApp are blocked. Using a VPN and a reliable eSIM is essential for staying connected.

 

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Transportation

China has one of the most advanced transport systems in the world.

  • High-speed trains are the best way to travel between cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.
  • Metro systems are efficient in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen.
  • Buses and taxis are widely available, though translation apps are useful for communication.
  • Ride-hailing apps like Didi (China’s Uber) are commonly used.

Find the best routes and tickets here.

🚆 Need to book trains, buses, or flights? Check out the best deals here.

Book Your Tickets & Find the Best Deals for China

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🏨 Hotels & Travel Packages:

    • Find the best hotel in China & travel deals on Trip.com ➡️ Click here
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Safety in China

China is one of the safest travel destinations, but keep these tips in mind:

 

  • Use only registered taxis or ride-hailing apps like DiDi.
  • Arrive early at train stations—major hubs like Beijing and Shanghai are massive.
  • Stick to well-reviewed hotels and avoid unauthorized tour guides.
  • Emergency services can be reached at 110.

Best Time to Visit China

The best time to visit depends on your China travel itinerary.

  • Spring (March–May): Comfortable temperatures and cherry blossoms in Shanghai and Beijing.
  • Summer (June–August): Hot and humid but ideal for Tibet and high-altitude areas.
  • Autumn (September–November): Best time to visit China, with mild weather and golden landscapes.
  • Winter (December–February): Cold but great for the Harbin Ice Festival and skiing.

Things to Do in China

From ancient history to futuristic skylines, here are the top things to do in China:

Beijing

  • Visit the Great Wall of China.
  • Explore the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.
  • Enjoy traditional Chinese Peking duck.
  • Walk around Summer Palace, one of the most famous China tourist sites.

Shanghai

  • Take in the skyline at The Bund.
  • Explore the Yu Garden.
  • Visit Nanjing Road, China’s busiest shopping street.
  • Experience the Shanghai Tower, the second tallest building in the world.

Guangzhou

  • Visit the Canton Tower, a top Guangzhou tourist attraction.
  • Try Cantonese cuisine at Shamian Island.
  • Shop at Beijing Road Pedestrian Street.
  • Explore Guangzhou’s temples and museums.

Shenzhen

  • Visit Window of the World, a park featuring mini replicas of global landmarks.
  • Relax at Dameisha Beach.
  • Explore the tech hub in Huaqiangbei.
  • Take a trip to OCT Loft, Shenzhen’s creative district.

Bucket List Locations

  • Beijing: Explore the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Summer Palace.
  • Shanghai: Discover Shanghai’s futuristic skyline and historic Old Town.
  • Guangzhou: Visit famous Guangzhou attractions like the Canton Tower and Baiyun Mountain.
  • Shenzhen: Experience the modern side of China at Shenzhen tourist attractions like OCT East and Happy Valley.
  • Xi’an: See the Terracotta Warriors and explore the ancient Silk Road capital.
  • Guilin: Take a Li River cruise to enjoy stunning karst landscapes.
  • Zhangjiajie: Visit the Avatar Mountains and walk on the world’s highest glass bridge.
  • Chengdu: Watch giant pandas and explore Sichuan’s spicy cuisine.

Posts

My latest blog posts about China!

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