Things To Do
in China

China, the world's most populous country, boasts a rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes ranging from towering mountains to bustling cities. Known for its ancient history, including the Great Wall and the Terracotta Army, China offers a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity. Its diverse geography supports a wide array of climates, ecosystems, and biodiversity.

As a global economic powerhouse, China is also a hub for innovation and technology.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Beijing
morning
:

Visit the iconic Tiananmen Square and then walk to the Forbidden City, the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing Dynasties.

afternoon
:

Head to the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of architecture and landscape, and enjoy a peaceful stroll in its surrounding park.

evening
:

Experience a traditional Peking Duck dinner at a renowned restaurant followed by a cultural show or performance in the city.

day 2
Day 2: Discovering the Great Wall
morning
:

Take a trip to the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu, known for its beautiful scenery and fewer crowds.

afternoon
:

Explore the wall and hike along its stunning sections, taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

evening
:

Return to Beijing for a relaxing evening at a local teahouse, enjoying Chinese tea and snacks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of noodles$2
🍺Beer (local)$1
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$10
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50
🏨Budget hotel per night$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Diverse landscapes and climates
  • Delicious and varied cuisine
  • Language barrier for non-Mandarin speakers
  • Crowds in popular tourist destinations
  • Air pollution in major cities
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "对不起" - Sorry
  • "多少钱?" - How much does this cost?
  • "厕所在哪里?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in China

Visit one of these nice places.

The Great Wall

Capture panoramic views of the rugged mountains and the winding wall stretching across the landscape.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Famous for its towering sandstone pillars, it inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar.

Li River

Photograph the stunning karst landscape along the river, known for its breathtaking scenery.

Culinary Guide

Food in China

Chinese cuisine is incredibly diverse, offering a variety of flavors, textures, and cooking styles across different regions.

China Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Peking Duck

A famous dish from Beijing known for its crispy skin and tender meat, often served with pancakes and hoisin sauce.

Must-Try!

Dumplings

Steamed or pan-fried pockets of dough filled with meat or vegetables, a staple in many Chinese households.

Hot Pot

A communal dining experience where various ingredients are cooked in a simmering pot of broth at the table.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Wangfujing Snack Street

A bustling street market in Beijing offering a wide variety of street food from skewered meat to fried insects.

Shilin Night Market

Taipei's famous night market with numerous food stalls serving local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

China experiences a diverse climate influenced by its vast geography. Northern regions have a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers, while southern areas enjoy a subtropical climate with mild winters. The western regions, such as Tibet, have an alpine climate with significant temperature variations. Coastal areas are subject to monsoon influences, leading to hot, humid summers and mild winters.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Elders are highly respected; it's customary to greet them first.

Gift Giving

Gifts are often given during visits; avoid giving clocks or umbrellas as they symbolize bad luck.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, as it resembles funeral rituals.

Safety Guide

Safety

China is generally a safe country for travelers, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy markets or tourist sites. It's advisable to keep your belongings secure and use reputable transportation services. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police, 120 for medical emergencies, and 119 for fire.

Tipping in China

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not traditionally practiced in China but is becoming more common in tourist areas; rounding up the bill is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used, though cash (RMB) is still accepted in many places.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

Perfect for visiting as temperatures are mild and flowers are in bloom.

Summer (June to August)

Hot and humid, especially in southern regions; ideal for visiting mountainous areas or beaches.

Autumn (September to November)

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage make it a great time for outdoor activities.

Winter (December to February)

Cold in northern areas with possible snowfall; good for visiting hot springs and enjoying winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

China at Night

China's nightlife varies significantly across regions. Major cities like Beijing and Shanghai offer vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. You can find everything from high-end lounges to local watering holes. KTV (karaoke) is a popular pastime, providing a lively atmosphere for friends to gather and enjoy music together. In smaller cities, night markets and street food stalls come alive in the evening, offering a more laid-back nightlife experience.

Hiking in China

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tiger Leaping Gorge

One of the deepest gorges in the world, offering spectacular views and challenging hikes.

Mount Huangshan (Yellow Mountain)

Famous for its unique granite peaks and hot springs, providing a variety of hiking trails amidst stunning scenery.

Airports

How to reach China by plane.

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)

One of the busiest airports in the world, serving as a major hub for international flights and offering extensive domestic connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkability in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai is quite good, with many pedestrian-friendly areas and well-maintained sidewalks. However, traffic can be heavy, making walking less pleasant in some districts. Urban parks and historical sites often provide pleasant walking routes, and public transport is readily available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The largest ethnic group in China, making up over 90% of the population, with diverse cultures and traditions across different regions.

Tibetan

A significant ethnic minority in the western region of Tibet, known for their unique culture, language, and traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Table Tennis

Regarded as the national sport, table tennis is widely played and supported across the country, with many local clubs.

Basketball

Extremely popular among the youth, basketball courts are found in cities and rural areas alike, with a vibrant community of players and fans.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic conditions can be challenging in major cities due to high population density and vehicle numbers. Public transportation systems, including subways, buses, and taxis, are extensive and affordable, making them the preferred way to navigate urban areas. During peak hours, however, commuters should expect delays and crowded conditions.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

While many dishes contain meat, there are plentiful vegetarian options; however, check for hidden animal products like fish sauce.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options can be limited in traditional cuisine; it's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

China has a mixed healthcare system, with both public and private facilities. Major cities have modern hospitals and clinics where travelers can access quality medical care. However, rural areas may lack adequate facilities. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, and to carry any necessary medications, as pharmacies may not stock all Western medications.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting China.