About China
China offers an incredible journey through 5,000 years of history, from the Great Wall and Forbidden City to ultramodern Shanghai skyscrapers. Experience diverse landscapes ranging from karst mountains in Guilin to the Tibetan Plateau, savor world-renowned cuisine, and witness the fusion of ancient traditions with cutting-edge technology.
Quick Overview
Capital: Beijing
Largest City: Shanghai
Population: 1.4 billion (2024 estimate)
Languages: Mandarin Chinese (official), Cantonese, Wu, Minbei, Minnan, Xiang, Gan, Hakka dialects
Currency: Chinese Yuan (Renminbi) (CNY)
Time Zone: UTC+8 (China Standard Time)
Explore China by Topic
Best Places to Visit in China
Discover the top 33 must-see destinations in China, from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path treasures.
The Great Wall of China (Mutianyu Section)
The Mutianyu section offers one of the most scenic and well-preserved stretches of the Great Wall, less crowded than Badaling. Built in the mid-6th century...
Forbidden City (Palace Museum)
The world's largest palace complex served as the imperial residence for 24 emperors during Ming and Qing dynasties (1420-1912). This UNESCO World Heritage site contains...
Terracotta Army
Discovered in 1974, this archaeological marvel features over 8,000 life-sized terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots buried with China's first emperor Qin Shi Huang in 210...
Li River Cruise
Cruise through one of China's most stunning landscapes from Guilin to Yangshuo, passing dramatic karst peaks, bamboo groves, and traditional fishing villages. The 83km journey...
Temple of Heaven
This 15th-century imperial complex is where Ming and Qing emperors performed annual ceremonies praying for good harvests. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a...
The Bund
Shanghai's iconic waterfront promenade showcases 52 buildings of various architectural styles from the 1920s-1930s on one side, with futuristic Pudong skyline including Shanghai Tower across...
Summer Palace
Beijing's largest imperial garden spans 2.9 square kilometers, dominated by Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill. Built in 1750 and rebuilt in 1886, it served as...
Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden)
This exquisite classical Chinese garden in Shanghai's old city dates to 1559 during the Ming Dynasty. Spanning 2 hectares, it features rockeries, ponds, pavilions, and...
Recommended Itineraries for China
Plan your perfect China trip with our expertly crafted itineraries for every travel style and duration.
5-Day China Explorer
- Day 1: Arrive in China, explore city center
- Day 2: Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3: Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4: Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5: Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic China
- Days 1-2: China city highlights
- Days 3-4: Regional exploration
- Days 5-6: Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7: Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate China
- Days 1-3: China comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6: Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9: Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12: Southern attractions
- Days 13-14: Return to China, departure
Where to Stay in China
From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, China offers accommodations for every traveler.
Budget Options ($30-50 (210-350 CNY))
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-Range ($80-120 (560-840 CNY))
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury ($200-500+ (1400-3500+ CNY))
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
The Peninsula Beijing
Iconic luxury hotel combining 1920s charm with modern amenities in a prime location near Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. Features...
Hotel Éclat Beijing
Boutique art hotel showcasing Salvador Dalí collection and contemporary Chinese art throughout public spaces and rooms. Modern design, excellent restaurant,...
Leo Hostel Beijing
Social hostel near Forbidden City with excellent rooftop bar, free walking tours, and helpful staff. Clean dorms and private rooms,...
Mandarin Oriental Pudong Shanghai
Occupying floors 60-93 of Shanghai Tower with breathtaking Bund and skyline views from China's tallest building. Ultra-modern rooms with floor-to-ceiling...
Where to Eat in China
Discover the culinary delights of China, from local street food to fine dining experiences.
TRB Hutong
Michelin-starred restaurant in a restored 600-year-old temple courtyard near Forbidden City. Chef Ignace Lecleir creates innovative European cuisine using Chinese...
Din Tai Fung
World-famous xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) chain maintaining exceptional quality and consistency. Each dumpling has exactly 18 pleats. Multiple locations across China,...
Jing-A Taproom
Beijing's best craft brewery serving burgers, wings, and American comfort food alongside creative beers. Industrial-chic space with outdoor seating. Popular...
Wangfujing Snack Street
Famous night market near Forbidden City with rows of vendors selling traditional and exotic street foods. Scorpions, starfish, and crickets...
Seesaw Coffee
Shanghai's premier specialty coffee chain with multiple locations. Single-origin beans, expert baristas, and modern minimalist spaces. Popular with coffee aficionados...
Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet
The world's first multi-sensory restaurant with only 10 seats per night. 20-course tasting menu synchronized with lights, sounds, and projections....
Getting Around China
Budget Breakdown for China
Plan your spending with our comprehensive cost guide. Currency: USD.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $10-15 hostel dorm | $35-60 3-star hotel or nice guesthouse | $120-300+ 5-star hotels |
| Food (per day) | $10-15 street food and cheap restaurants | $25-35 mix of local restaurants and some nicer meals | $60-120 fine dining and upscale restaurants |
| Transportation | $3-8 metro and local buses | $8-15 metro, occasional taxis, bike rental | $20-50 taxis, private drivers, premium trains |
| Activities | $5-10 free attractions, parks, one paid site | $15-25 entry fees to attractions, occasional tour | $30-80 VIP tours, exclusive experiences |
| Daily Total | $30-50 (210-350 CNY) | $80-120 (560-840 CNY) | $200-500+ (1400-3500+ CNY) |
Best Time to Visit China
Best Season: April-May, September-October
Peak Season: April-May, September-October
Avoid: December-February, June-August
Essential Travel Tips for China
- Research visa requirements before your trip
- Learn a few basic phrases in the local language
- Carry cash as cards may not be accepted everywhere
- Respect local customs and dress codes
- Purchase travel insurance before departure
Safety Information
Travel Advisory
Exercise normal precautions in most of China. Exercise increased caution in Tibet (requires special permit, restricted access), Xinjiang (heightened security, surveillance), and border regions. COVID health measures vary. Check government travel advisories before visiting politically sensitive regions.
Keep copies of passport and visa separate from originals
Avoid discussing sensitive political topics in public
Use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi
Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas and tourist sites
Download VPN before arrival as many Western websites are blocked
Carry cash as many places don't accept foreign credit cards
Don't drink tap water - bottled water widely available
Register with your embassy or consulate online before arrival through programs like STEP (US citizens) for emergency notifications
Install WeChat Pay and Alipay before visiting as most street vendors and local restaurants only accept mobile payments - foreign cards work in some apps with setup
Carry your hotel address card in Chinese script - many taxi drivers and locals do not speak English, and showing the card guarantees you reach your destination
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit China?
The best time to visit China is April-May, September-October. December-February, June-August may have less favorable conditions.
Do I need a visa for China?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Check with your nearest embassy or consulate for China for current requirements before travel.
How many days do I need in China?
For a comprehensive China experience, we recommend 7-10 days. However, you can have a great trip in 5 days focusing on highlights.
Is China expensive to visit?
Budget travelers can expect $30-50 (210-350 CNY) per day, mid-range $80-120 (560-840 CNY), and luxury $200-500+ (1400-3500+ CNY).