CHINA
COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE
ABOUT
CHINA
China offers more than scale—it offers depth. This is a place where empires rose and philosophies shaped the world, where the past lives not in ruins but in rituals.
From karst peaks to buzzing cities, every corner tells a different story. It’s not a destination you grasp in one visit—it’s one you return to in memory, again and again.
You’ll walk the Great Wall, but you’ll remember the stillness of a misty courtyard, the quiet of incense curling in a temple, the burst of flavor in a single dumpling.
You’ll hear the clang of woks in back-alley kitchens, the thrum of a high-speed train, and the rhythmic strokes of a calligraphy brush. Here, contrasts don’t clash—they coexist.
There’s space for silence and spectacle, for sacred mountains and ultramodern skylines. China doesn’t cater to the casual glance—it invites the curious to look again and again. It holds thousands of stories, waiting to be discovered.
China is for travelers who seek layers—of history, of culture, of meaning. It’s a place where every meal is a lesson, every alleyway a discovery.
You don’t just see the landmarks—you feel the legacy. From tea ceremonies that invite quiet reflection to temple bells that echo with history, from silk markets buzzing with vendors to slow-moving tai chi in city parks, China invites presence over pace.
Whether exploring the pulse of megacities or the tranquility of countryside villages, you’ll find moments of both wonder and reflection. It’s a destination that rewards curiosity—the more you look, the more you find.
This is a country that teaches patience, that blends ancient wisdom with modern energy. For those who want more than highlights, who crave immersion and insight, China doesn’t disappoint. It’s not about checking off a list—it’s about walking away with a deeper understanding of a culture that’s as complex as it is beautiful.
POPULAR DESTINATIONS IN
CHINA
The Great Wall of China Historic, humbling, and stretching across northern China.
Terracotta Warriors (Xi’an) Thousands of life-sized soldiers guarding a buried emperor.
Forbidden City (Beijing) The vast palace complex of China’s emperors.
Li River (Guilin) Peaceful waters framed by surreal karst mountains.
Yellow Mountain (Huangshan) Famous for cloud seas and twisted pines.
The Bund (Shanghai) Where colonial facades face a futuristic skyline.
Temple of Heaven A masterpiece of Ming architecture and spiritual precision.
Chengdu Panda Base See China’s most beloved creatures up close.
Zhangjiajie National Park Fantasy landscapes that inspired movie magic.
West Lake (Hangzhou) A poetic retreat of bridges, pagodas, and lotus blooms.
Yungang Grottoes Cave temples with giant Buddhist statues and carvings.
Potala Palace (Lhasa) A spiritual and architectural marvel of Tibet.
QUICK FACTS
TRANSPORT
Between Cities
China’s high-speed rail network is one of the world’s best—connecting major cities and even remote areas in comfort and speed. Domestic flights are frequent for longer routes.
Around Cities
Metro systems in Beijing, Shanghai, and other cities are efficient and multilingual. Didi (China’s Uber) is convenient and widely used. Walking is ideal in historic districts.
HOTELS/RESORTS/CRUISES
Hotels & Resorts
China offers everything from luxury high-rises to boutique stays in traditional courtyard homes. International brands are abundant, but smaller heritage hotels offer rich cultural ambiance.
Cruises
Yangtze River cruises between Chongqing and Yichang offer scenic views, cultural shows, and shore excursions to gorges, temples, and dam locks.
SHOPPING
Shop for:
Silk scarves, calligraphy brushes, jade bangles, traditional tea, Chinese medicine, paper cuttings, and hand-painted fans. Local markets mix modern and old-world wares.
Eat:
China is a culinary universe: from dim sum in Guangzhou to noodles in Xi’an to street dumplings in Beijing. Regional variety is endless.
Drink:
Sip oolong or pu-erh tea in a traditional teahouse. Try baijiu (rice liquor) or enjoy a modern cocktail on a rooftop in Shanghai.
Time Zone
China operates on a single time zone across the entire country: Beijing Time (BJT), which is GMT+8. This applies nationwide, despite the country’s vast size. It’s important to adjust your schedule when traveling across regions, as sunrise and sunset times can vary greatly between the east and west.
Vaccines
There are no required vaccinations for entry into China, but some are recommended for a safer and healthier trip. Travelers should ensure they are up-to-date on routine vaccinations, including MMR, pertussis, polio, and hepatitis B. Vaccines for hepatitis A, typhoid, and rabies may also be considered, depending on your travel plans.
Electricity and Plugs
There are no required vaccinations for entry into China, but some are recommended for a safer and healthier trip. Travelers should ensure they are up-to-date on routine vaccinations, including MMR, pertussis, polio, and hepatitis B. Vaccines for hepatitis A, typhoid, and rabies may also be considered, depending on your travel plans.
Climate
China spans multiple climates. North China (Beijing) has cold winters and hot summers. The south (Guangzhou, Hong Kong) is subtropical and humid. Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the best balance for most travelers.
Safety
China is generally safe for tourists, with low violent crime. Scams can occur in tourist hotspots, so use licensed guides and vetted apps for bookings. Follow local laws and avoid political discussions. Some internet services may be restricted without a VPN.
Useful Telephone Numbers
Emergency Services: 110 (Police), 120 (Ambulance), 119 (Fire)
Tourism Hotline (in major cities): Varies by region—ask hotel for local numbers
Foreign Language Police Line (Beijing): +86 10 6525 5486
Country Code: +86
YOU MIGHT BE WONDERING ABOUT
CHINA
FAQ's
Is China safe for tourists?
Yes in tourist-friendly regions. Stick to major cities or guided tours in rural areas. Public transport is efficient, but language barriers exist.
How many days do I need in China?
10–14 days lets you explore Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai. Add Chengdu or Guilin for natural and cultural variety.
When is the best time to visit China?
April–May and September–October for pleasant weather and clear skies. Summer is hot and crowded; winter is quiet and chilly.
POPULAR DESTINATIONS IN
CHINA
Great Wall at sunrise
Terracotta Warriors in formation
Bamboo rafting on the Li River
Zhangjiajie’s mountain pillars
Red lanterns in Pingyao
Temple of Heaven dome
Yellow Mountain peaks above clouds
Forbidden City rooftops
Shanghai skyline from The Bund
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Chengdu panda sanctuary
Xi’an bell tower at dusk
LEARN MORE ABOUT
TRAVELING IN
CHINA
What we loved about this destination
An unforgettable experience! The sights, the people, and the culture were absolutely incredible.
Alex M.