This article will recommend the best cities to visit in China and their unique highlights by month, helping you easily discover the top travel destinations for each month and plan an unforgettable, personalized journey across China.

If you’re planning a trip to China, you’ll discover an exciting calendar of major events and exhibitions throughout the year. From cultural festivals to world-class trade shows and cutting-edge tech expos, every season offers unique experiences across the country’s vibrant cities. Whether you’re interested in tradition, innovation, art, or global business, China’s diverse events will immerse you in its dynamic energy and rich culture-making every visit fresh and memorable.

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The specifics of how to plan a trip to China can stump even the most experienced of international travelers. Amidst the challenges posed by the many China ‘unknowns’, you might even wonder where to start with making arrangements.

While asking friends and family who’ve been there, done that can be helpful, sometimes, it can create even more confusion. One person’s negative experience can taint your perception and leave you unnecessarily concerned about planning your travel arrangements. It might even make you apprehensive about how to manage once you’re on the ground.

If you’ve scoured Google for every tip and trick on how to plan a trip to China, you’ve probably discovered much of what’s written comes from lifestyle bloggers. Sure, you’ll find some helpful information, but many of these bloggers have planned and prepared for just a single trip to China.

Over a decade of researching, designing and planning holidays to China means we know a thing or two about how to create beautiful travel memories for customers, so in the spirit of transparency, we’re sharing our insider knowledge about how to plan a trip to China when you have no idea where to start.

Let’s do this!

How to plan a trip to China: Start with destinations

If this is your first trip to China, your biggest hurdle will be narrowing down your list of must-see destinations.

Covering a landmass that is larger than either Australia or the USA, this won’t be an easy task, so it’s essential you pull out a map before you get too far into your planning.

A quick scan and you’ll soon see that favourite destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, and Lhasa aren’t exactly within easy reach of each other (they’re actually three corners of a very large triangle across the country!). So knowing how to make plans for your China trip means understanding travel distances and the potential limitations imposed by geography, available transport, and accessibility.

Fortunately, we’ve got you covered with our list of recommended destinations for first time China trippers. Plan to visit Beijing, Xian, Guilin, Chengdu, and Shanghai, however if your schedule doesn’t allow, stick with the Golden Triangle – Beijing, Xian, and Shanghai.

Explore these recommendations from our CEO  for anyone planning their first trip to China.

Making plans for a China holiday: Getting there and getting around

The destinations at which you start and finish your trip will be dictated to some extent by the city you fly into.

Beijing and Guangzhou are the main international arrival hubs, but they’re not the only ones, so you may want to consider how to get the best deal to save money on flights, keeping in mind you may need to book in country flights or train travel.

Booking international flights yourself, rather than relying on a travel agency, means more holiday spending dollars in your pocket. Be sure to access these flights directly from an airline’s website instead of third party booking platforms. You might even be lucky enough to find a great seasonal promotion or offer.

Another point to keep in mind is that international flights with a stopover are less expensive than direct flights. If you don’t mind the longer travel time – or you want to take advantage of the opportunity to visit another destination, this is a great way to see more of the world. US travelers flying from Los Angeles to Beijing could stop in Tokyo for a couple of days. Similarly, if you’re on route from Shanghai to LA, why not consider two days in Osaka? Breaking up your travel this way just makes sense, and with leisure travel plans seriously curtailed, we envisage travelers will look for ways to maximise their vacations when borders reopen.

Choosing an China travel company: How to know what’s best

When it comes to choosing an in-country China travel company, the decision-making process can become very confusing, very quickly.

As tourism has boomed over the past decade, we’ve seen astronomical growth in China-based travel companies. It has become highly competitive, which is great for western travelers. It means you can pick and choose a provider according to your values.

As travelers ourselves, we always look for companies that tailor the experience to what the customer really wants; not what they think the customer wants. It’s on this point that many China travel agencies miss the mark. For example, companies offering commission-based shopping don’t realise that the majority of western travelers seek a real experience of China, not a shopping expedition. The opportunity to meet and connect with locals and their culture has far more value to them than visiting an overpriced retail outlet selling wares of questionable authenticity.

Another important tip: if you can, avoid making price your number one buying decision. Because there is such a vast difference between the good, the average, and everything in between, it pays to spend time doing your research.

Ask questions like what hotel chains do they use and where are they located? A quality hotel located in a premium city location means less time lost on unnecessary travel to and from sights. China’s big cities are notorious for their traffic, which seems to be on a perpetual peak hour. It’s not uncommon to be delayed a least an hour because of busy roads.

Choose wisely when traveling with a guide

Tour guides can make or break your experience, so it doesn’t hurt to investigate the quality of guides used by the company. This is easily done by checking out online reviews. 

Experience tells us that a China travel agency with quality guides is worth its weight. With their ability to share deep local knowledge, an appreciation for service, and a sense of humour, for many customers, a wonderful guide adds to your bank of travel memories. Often, the connection made with local China guides is the best opportunity for customers to connect with a local and really understand a little more about Chinese culture.

We understand how pivotal a guide is to our customers’ travel experience and it’s why we’ve continued to invest in attracting and retaining the best guides.

Planning your China trip: Deciding the best time to travel

The challenge with deciding the best time for a trip to China is coming up with a simple answer. This is because there are so many things to consider: Seasons, destinations and highlights on your bucket list, personal interests (are you fascinated by history, but not a fan of big cities?), how much time you have, and of course, your budget. 

As a general rule, there is no one best time to go to China, however the most common advice from those who know is to plan your travel for April, May, September and October. Why? Well, these are the most enjoyable from a weather and season perspective.

Spring falls in April and May (and March), making these months ideal times to visit China. Equally appealing for seasonal travel are September and October, when it is Fall in the northern hemisphere. As the months that land either side of the super busy, crowded Summer, planning your holiday to align with these times will make for comfortable travel weather. It also means avoiding the bitter cold of winter, which is a feature of high traffic destinations like Beijing or Tibet or bypassing the searing heat of places like Turpan or even Shanghai with its more humid climate. 

If the weather doesn’t bother you, traveling in the off-season means there are smaller crowds of domestic and foreign travelers, which in itself can make for a more enjoyable time.

Getting organized: Visas and money

China is a country where a visa is required for most international travelers, however, changes made in 2024 that are in place until the end of 2025 have loosened visa restrictions. If you are planning a two week holiday, for example, there is good news. China has made it easy for international travelers from many destinations. In July 2024 it was announced that from December 1 2023 to December 31 2025, China has implemented a unilateral visa-free policy for ordinary passport holders from 15 countries: Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Malaysia, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Australia, and Poland. Citizens from these countries are eligible for a visa-free entry if they come to China for business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends and transit for no more than 15 days. If, however, you are traveling from elsewhere, don’t be overwhelmed by the visa application process. If you’ve booked a tour, your travel agency can help by providing the items required for your application.

You will need an invitation letter and the details relating to destinations, as well as how long and where you’re staying. Photos and the completed application form are also required. Whether you’re traveling as part of a small group, private, or custom China tour package, be prepared to do a little legwork to meet all the China visa requirements. 

The best way is to connect with your local China Embassy, Consulate, or Visa Application Center to understand where the application process fits in terms of timing for your travel arrangements. If in doubt, ask for help from your travel agency. They can advise of any changes which may affect your application or travel.

In terms of money and payments, a visit to China is not complete unless you’re purchasing with Alipay and WeChat Pay. These two apps are ubiquitous, so it makes sense to download them on arrival. China is very much a cashless economy. You’ll quickly discover that even street food stall holders accept payment via WeChat Pay and AliPay. 

Credit cards are also accepted widely throughout China, although a certain amount of cash is a necessity. Let’s say you’re traveling on the 8 day Beijing, Xian and Shanghai tour, allow for USD1000 to buy small souvenirs, handcrafts, meals, and pay gratuities to guides and drivers in every city.

Small group, private or custom tour? Which should you choose?

There is nothing worse than embarking on the holiday you’ve been planning for months only to discover you are herded about like sheep in a large group by your trusty guide.

Apart from the opportunity to connect with a friendly, knowledgeable local, small group, private or custom tours are simply a much more enjoyable way to experience China. 

Our small group tour numbers are capped at 12 people, while our private and custom tours are even smaller, accommodating only you and your family or friends. A small group tour is an ideal choice if you’re happy to hit the road with other like-minded travelers. Go for a private or custom tour if you’d prefer extra flexibility. This applies especially to custom tours where you can create your own adventure. 

Read any review from western travelers who’ve chosen one of these options and you’ll see why they’re so popular. And if you’re stuck for suggestions, here are our CEO’s top recommendations for first time travelers to China.

A final word on planning your China trip

There are many resources for finessing the details of your trip to China, however one of the best you’ll find is a competent, caring travel consultant. With experience and knowledge of what works best down to the last detail, you can feel confident that by working together you’ll experience China as the kind of place you always imagined it would be.

Experienced international traveler, but finding it hard to get the details right for the ideal trip to China? Relax! We can help. Explore our library of articles about all things China travel, or simply get in touch to discover what’s really possible when you plan and design a tour with people who truly care about your experience. We welcome online enquiries via direct contact and with responses delivered within 24 hours, we’re sure we can help create your next beautiful travel memory.

The post How to plan a trip to China: Get past the overwhelm (and get excited) appeared first on China Tours.

Booking China tours from Australia is now easy, affordable, and fun with travel restrictions well and truly a thing of the past. After all that dreaming about travel during lockdowns, we can take a collective deep breath and think about where we’d like to visit. China offers so many diverse options in terms of landscapes, culture, history, and highlights that you could be forgiven for thinking it’s too hard to choose. That’s where a travel expert on China tours from Australia can help.

A remarkable 800,000 Australians make the trek to China annually, and although numbers may have dropped during the pandemic era, as a destination, China still sits among the top five countries to visit. It seems Australians can’t get enough of this land of history, culture, and amazing cuisine.

With that in mind, we figure, there’s nothing like researching your destination, which is why it pays to research the best selection of China tours from Australia.

Check out these top tips (from our very own CEO, no less!) for turning your holiday dreams into travel reality.

Tours to China from Australia: Bring a little DIY to the mix

One thing travel restrictions taught world travelers is that we should never take the flexibility and opportunity to travel for granted. In effect, being unable to travel made us want to travel more. Australians are no exceptions to this rule. Why? Because Australians, having gained a reputation as holidaymakers who are unphased by long haul flights across oceans and continents, are an adventuresome lot. Our research shows a spike in interest around tours to China from Australia, and that can only mean one thing: Australians are jumping back on planes again.

Australians are a resourceful bunch and more inclined to take travel matters into their own hands – and that’s a good thing. In fact, we recommend it to our customers when it comes to booking international flights.

While travel arrangements were previously made through travel agents, technology advances mean you can design and create a tailored travel adventure online. Although it’s wise to connect with a travel agency or tour operator on the ground in China to guarantee the best experience, there’s no reason you can’t book your own flights. That’s right – DIY flights booked online once you have your tour travel dates.

Insider tip: We recommend going directly to the airline website rather than using third party platforms, as this keeps fees to a minimum and it’s where the best deals are found. As a customer, when it comes to flights, the power is very much in your hands. In the interest of encouraging travel, airlines are offering expectional flight deals that make any tours to China from Australia highly accessible.

Bespoke tours: Why not enjoy something a bit fancy?

Regular Australians are generally unaffected and perhaps not so inclined to opt for something a bit fancy, however they do love good value. 

What we’re seeing is a trend in savvy western travelers doing their due diligence on tours to China from Australia.  They now expect to connect directly with a local in-country tour operator or travel agency. They have also come to expect more flexibility, freedom, and customized travel experiences that allow them to connect with locals, learn about culture, and sample cuisine (that maybe they had a hand in preparing). 

That means goodbye boring ‘vanilla’ itineraries and hello bespoke travel adventures. 

As a company operating tours for well over a decade, we’ve seen a growing appetite from our Australian customers who recognize good value and want to book private and custom China tours. 

Apart from giving Australians more of the travel experience they really want, it also means you can tailor your holiday to include unique excursions and unusual destinations that don’t make it into standard ho-hum tours available through many tour operators.

Insider’s tip: Research the experiences you want in the destinations you’re visiting in China and talk to your in China travel agency or tour operator about how these can be incorporated into the itinerary. This is the kind of vacation we love designing and creating (did we say we love taking care of the details?), so don’t hold back. After all, by the time you land in Beijing, your China highlights bucket list will probably be a mile long.

How to pick the best China tours from Australia

An online search for the best China tours from Australia will yield literally thousands of results, so if you’re a first time visitor, reconnecting with your family, or even if you’re a returning adventurer, how do you make sense of them all and feel confident in your decision?

We’ve already talked about the importance of research and this certainly applies when it comes to selecting the best China tours from Australia. 

First, you must decide what level of travel you’re after. If budget is your main consideration, there are ample choices. However, if budget is less of a concern, and you value flexibility and choice, then it’s a good idea to dive into the detail of what’s really being offered. 

Be sure to check the important information and terms and conditions. Consider whether land transfers are included, the support provided by guides, if you’ll be forced into commission-based shopping stops, and the location of hotels.

Specialization is the hallmark of an exceptional China travel provider, but what most customers don’t realize is that many operators don’t look for opportunities to deliver unique experiences. It could be a cultural perception that differentiation isn’t appreciated, however this is exactly what the savvy Australian traveler wants. A taste of real China by immersing themselves in it.

This is the very reason we recommend searching for a tour company that really knows China – and truly cares about your experience. Approaching travel plans this way means you’re more likely to discover a holiday that is more than a mediocre ‘vanilla’ substitute. It’s okay to expect value for money, and even to want something a bit special; it just shouldn’t come at a cost to the quality of your holiday. 

Once you’ve picked a tour, find out if it can be taken as a private guided tour and what the price difference is. While small group tours are wonderful (we only travel with a maximum of 12 people), a private tour following the same itinerary offers even more flexibility.

Insider tip: If you only plan on visiting China once – do your research and book a bespoke tour, tailored exactly to your interests, budget, and travel days. Regardless of whether you’re traveling solo, as a family, or group of friends, this is a great way to travel your way.

China visa? Yes, you’ll need one for China tour packages from Australia

China is a country where a visa is required for Australian travelers under certain conditions. As at November 2024 when this article was published, China has included Australia in its visa waiver program from 1 July 2024. If you hold an Australian passport you can enter China for up to 15 days for business, tourism, family, or transit purposes. Note that diplomatic and official passport holders must still apply for a visa.

Don’t be overwhelmed by the application process. If you’ve booked a tour, travel agencies like our own can help by providing the items required for your China visa, namely an invitation letter and related travel information such as destinations, duration of stay, and hotels. Whether it’s small group, private, or custom China tour packages, from Australia, entry into China will mean a little legwork to meet all the requirements.

Be sure to allow plenty of time and connect with your local China Embassy, Consulate, or Visa Application Center to complete your application by providing photos, the relevant form and other supporting documentation.

Insider’s tip: If you’re confused about what’s required for your China visa, or want to understand where the application process fits in terms of timing for your travel arrangements, ask for help. The travel agency you’re dealing with will be up to date with changes that occur, which affect visa applications for international visitors.

More reasons to start planning your China tour from Australia

Here are some other great reasons to choose a specialized local tour operator or travel agent in China if you’re considering a China tour from the Australia:

• More choice of tour itineraries, including tours focused on specific themes, interests, and destinations. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in local culture.

• Different tour types, including private tours, small group tours, and customized tours. 

•  Value for money. As a direct sale, you avoid unnecessary fees associated with booking through a traditional travel agent. That means more holiday spending cash.

• Responsiveness and communication. With a focus on serving the western traveler, travel agencies like ChinaTours.com engage travel consultants with an excellent command of English, and with a strong service ethic, response times from enquiries are typically very quick.

• Quality service – As China’s tourism industry has grown, so too have expectations around service. Before booking, check out the online reviews of companies offering tours, to see the comments made about the company’s travel consultants, local guides, and drivers. You’ll find uncensored opinions and they are a great way to find out how well customers were taken care of by their tour operator or travel agency.

• Quality hotels, centrally located – One day in a busy city like Beijing and you’ll soon appreciate the value of a quality hotel that is centrally located. A deceptively large amount of your valuable tour time can disappear traveling between sights, so research your tour and find out where the hotels are located relative to stops in the daily itinerary. Be aware that interpretations of four and five star may differ between providers, so ask about the hotel partners too. International hotel brands with consistent standards are always a safe bet.

• Industry recognition – Traveling with a company with international industry memberships provides peace of mind, especially for Australian travelers planning a China holiday. Industry bodies like the Pacific Asia Travel Association, American Society of Travel Advisors, and the China Association of Travel, provide credibility, as well as a point of reference if you are concerned about service standards.

Stuck for China tour ideas? Start your research with this ‘best of’ recommendations from the ChinaTours.com team.

If you’re researching China tours from Australia, why not simplify the big decisions about how to plan and organize a tour that maximizes your time and budget. Having served customers from around the world, including Australia for well over a decade, we know what savvy travelers from the West want on their holidays. Research, plan, and explore the options available in our selection of best China tours, or create your own custom experience with the help of travel consultants who know and care about every detail. We welcome online enquiries via direct contact and respond within 24 hours.

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Best cities to visit in China?

Whoa! That’s a tough question to answer.

Even for people like us who travel the length and breadth of this vast, diverse, and exciting country to create China tours with beautiful travel memories.

So, how do we narrow the list of best cities to visit in China when there are so many exciting destinations you can choose?

Between bustling Beijing, exciting Shanghai, and everything in between, you may feel a tad perplexed about how to filter your selection. It can be especially challenging if you’re planning your first trip to China. There are just so many diverse regions, each with unique natural, cultural, and historical attractions that unless you’re prepared to do lots of research, you could find yourself confused – or worse still, on a holiday that is nothing like your expectations.

We totally understand.

To answer your question about the best cities to visit in China, we’ve decided to keep things simple.

Fortunately, we can do that by relying on the experience and wisdom of our travel consultants. We’ve also drawn from the insights and first hand knowledge of our trusty local travel guides. And we’re big fans of the feedback we receive from our lovely customers who share their reviews and feedback while traveling with us.

Of course, deciding the best places to visit in China is subjective, but this updated list reflects decades of experience freely shared by our team who remain as ever, intrepid adventurers, even in these times of restricted travel.

So, grab your pen and notebook and get ready to create your own ultimate list of the best cities to visit in China.

Visit Beijing: it’s one of the best cities to visit in China

No China destination list would be complete without including the country’s modern capital Beijing.

A unique mix of history, culture, and China’s contemporary advancement, Beijing is a fascinating place. The city’s sheer size alone – measured in its expanding population of over 21 million people, and the endless view of cloud-topping highrise apartments – is enough to make the head spin of any China tour traveler.

While some may be satisfied with a single day tour, this simply does not do this immense city and surrounds justice.

Beijing offers so much. Its history alone – much of it fraught with tragedy and intrigue and spanning millennia – is captured in iconic structures like the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and the Temple of Heaven. For the uninitiated, the intelligence, diligence, and typical iron will exhibited by previous generations of empirical rule, can be a challenge to comprehend.

Modern Beijing is an altogether different experience. Competing easily with its Western contemporaries, new Beijing is bright lights, high end hotels and fancy restaurants, and a bustling centre of commerce and politics. Balanced with heritage areas, such as the hutongs (Beijing’s most expensive real estate), a multi-day tour or even a Beijing layover can satisfy diverse interests of those hungry for culture, history, and what’s happening now.

And of course Beijing offers close proximity to multiple spots along the Great Wall of China – a marvel of human endurance, engineering, and willpower. Whether you spend just an hour – or walk kilometres along the wall itself – it is a marvel to behold and will make for special China tour travel memories.

Shanghai: luxury, life and lots of fun

Shanghai is a fabulous and fun city that continues to reflect the legacy of its international heritage.

With a rich combination of Chinese, French, and English colonial influence – and a long turbulent history to boot – Shanghai once the Paris of the East, is now more an example of Chinese commercial advancement.

A couple of days in Shanghai will allow you to enjoy a walk along the Bund. At once both iconic and prestigious, it is a well-preserved example of historical Shanghai glamour. You can walk Nanjing Road too, the busiest shopping precinct in China.

A change in tempo is possible with a visit to peaceful Yuyuan Garden, where you can marvel at the stunning gardens. Stroll around the nearby Chenghuangmiao bazaars and make a worthwhile detour to visit the fascinating and iconic Shikumen houses in New Spot (XinTianDi) for a true taste of old world Shanghai.

More recent history is available by wandering the quieter streets of Dongping Road or Sinan Road in the Former French Concession. It’s here you will find the essence of classic Shanghai and understand why this city continues to appeal to international travelers from all over the world.

Relax in Xi’an: one of China’s ancient capitals

Xi’an is to Beijing what LA is to New York: A (more relaxed) world away.

Arrive in Xi’an and there’s more of China’s hustle and busy-ness, but without the seriousness that accompanies Beijing.

In fact, Xi’an is fun. It’s a bright, lively city, made all the more beautiful by red lantern lined streets that sparkle at night. It’s a city that doesn’t seem to sleep.

A must-see inclusion in your Xi’an city exploration is a visit to the Xi’an City Wall, perhaps the best preserved of all China’s city walls; no small feat given there are many of these throughout the country. Marking the original outline of this ancient capital, the Xi’an City Wall provides refreshing vistas out across the city, in many ways giving a bird’s eye view not available from the cloistered comfort of hotel rooms. Consider bringing some youthful adventure to your holiday and cycle the full distance around the wall, stopping at each of the four corners along the way.

Other X’ian must see highlights for a short stay visit are the Great Mosque and Muslim Quarter. The Great Mosque is a contemplative and peaceful location with beautiful gardens. Its prominent location in Xi’an reflects the significance of the local Islamic population, both historically and today. Enjoy their local culinary influence by making a trip (or two) down Muslim Street for fabulous and famous local street food.

Finally, be prepared for the incredible when you venture outside Xi’an’s city centre to visit the world-renowned Terracotta Army. If you make it only once to this breathtaking display of construction and organization, be sure to savor it. The warriors, their horses, and the history behind them are truly remarkable and yet another testament to the endurance and vision of China’s empirical leaders, definitely making it on the list of best places to visit in China.

Chengdu: create travel memories with pandas

There’s no doubt if Chengdu is on your list, then a visit to see giant pandas – China’s national treasure – is a non-negotiable.

Available for viewing at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding or the Dujiangyan Panda Base, it’s essential to book ahead, so check in with a local travel consultant who can help make the ideal arrangements.

In addition to gorgeous pandas, you’ll find Chengdu offers visitors plenty to be excited about.

For a start, Sichuan food is a true culinary adventure. Consider at least one authentic hot pot meal while in Chengdu. Not only is a hot pot truly fun, it is delicious too, and a great way to share a meal with fellow travelers and dine like a local.

Unsure about your dining options? Talk to your local guide. They offer the best insider knowledge of where to eat in every destination.

Tea culture permeates the more relaxed Chengdu lifestyle and while here, it’s the perfect time to take advantage of just how good Chinese tea is. Take a walk down iconic Jinli Street and watch tea merchants at work. You can even sample a cup or two and treat yourself to a take home tin and tea set as a special travel memento. Tea is everywhere in China and Chengdu is no exception.

Guilin

Guilin rests against a backdrop of some of China’s finest and most iconic natural landscapes and scenery. Think stunning karst stone mountains steeped in misty clouds, water buffalo grazing lazily along the Li River, sweet-smelling osmanthus trees, remarkable rice terraces and more.

Within Guilin itself, you will see a different kind of China to that of the country’s more modernized cities. With an almost rural feel to it, despite its population of nearly 5 million people, Guilin is renowned for the distinctive karst stone which features in the surrounding topography. You only need look closely at the 20 yuan note, which profiles the region poetically named Reflection of Yellow Cloth Shoal.

Guilin’s highlights can be experienced over one or two days, however, within close proximity, you’ll discover other sights worthy of a visit too.

Float upstream along the Li River and you’ll arrive at lovely Yangshuo. A town (by China’s standards) of just 300,000 people, Yangshuo provides the opportunity for a genuine experience of rural China. It is possible here to wander country lanes between farmer’s fields, and if arranged in advance, spend time with a local farmer.

The famous Longji rice fields located about 100 kilometers from Guilin are where incredible photo opportunities can be enjoyed. As fascinating as they are spectacular, it’s here you can enjoy the chance to absorb incredible views and admire the ingenuity and diligence of local rice farmers past and present.

Dong minority villages in Zhaoxing offer an insight to the diversity of China’s population. Visit them to discover the ancient Dong culture, architecture, and agricultural practices. You can even hike, making this a truly outdoor and nature-based experience. Guilin is easily accessible via plane and train – it’s certainly a desirable inclusion on our destination list.

Lhasa

The holy city of Lhasa is where many of Tibet’s most iconic and remarkable highlights are to be discovered. Wonders like the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Circuit, and the community of people who continue to live the ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions make this destination a ‘must do’ once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.

Positioned perfectly on Red Mountain in the centre of Lhasa Valley on the Tibet Plateau, Lhasa is a window to the spiritual beating heart of Tibet. Expect to be mesmerized by the sacred and holy, while at the same time delighted by the joy with which locals welcome travelers wanting to experience this special place.

Three or four days in Lhasa is ample time to walk in the footsteps of the Dalai Lama – past and present – and to discover the beauty and treasures in Norbulingka, Drepung Monastery, and the notable Sera Monastery. It truly is a place where you will feel wonder at the enduring nature of those who continue with practices and rituals that are centuries old.

And while you’re in the region, take advantage of the location and use Lhasa as your launch pad to see more in Tibet. Enjoy pristine, postcard-perfect landscapes encompassing breathtaking alpine views, endless horizons, and deep green valleys. Road travel between minority group villages offers the chance to see and experience local life in a way that cannot be enjoyed from the air. Along the way, savor the unique insights to be gained in authentic traditional Tibetan craftsmanship, materials, and skills. Among the sights to be seen are the local artisans and communities, the Meili Snow Mountains, Mount Kawagebo, Three Parallel Rivers, Napa Lake, picturesque snow-capped mountains, gorgeous glaciers – and what every discerning traveler seeks – an incomparable peace.

Dunhuang

Located in China’s northwestern Gansu Province, Dunhuang is renowned for its location in an oasis where you’ll find the incredible natural wonders of the Crescent Spring and Echoing Sands Dune. Once an important stop for camel caravans traveling the Silk Road, it isn’t hard to see how Dunhuang became home to rich historical relics and religious arts.

Dunhuang is also where you’ll discover the amazing Mogao Caves. A labyrinth of over 700 caves, 2,000 painted statues, and 40,000 square meters of mural paintings, the Mogao Caves will leave you wondering at the diligence of those involved in its creation over centuries.

The landscape in and around Dunhuang carries enormous appeal too, not least because of Yadan National Geological Park, itself a geologic phenomena created by erosion of the soft earth caused by rain and wind. The spectacular rock formations provide a contrast to the man-made Great Wall of the Han Dynasty and Yumenguan Pass, both of which are now considerably less of a deterrent having been eroded into the surrounding dunes over time.

If travel time is on your side, and you love adventure, make the four hour road trip to Jiayuguan. Another once vital destination on the famous China Silk Road route, Jiayuguan is in the Gobi Desert, and considered the official starting point of remote China.

Dunhuang characterizes the blend of western and eastern culture synonymous with China’s Silk Road, making it a worthy inclusion on the list of best cities to visit.

Hong Kong

Fascinating sights, remarkable history, and fabulous local food, Hong Kong is everything a savvy traveler looks for in destination China. Vibrant and cosmopolitan, it’s the ideal city to breeze through on a 72 hour layover, or if you have more time, locate yourself for an HK adventure.

If you’ve never even visited, or only ever skimmed through, Hong Kong is a city like no other. At the intersection of east and west, it is a gateway to bucket list highlights, fabulous food, and yes, even shopping that is matched in few other places around the world. With skylines that top out above the clouds, a tropical vibe, and an edgy and modern approach to life, Hong Kong stands out as a destination with stunning views, gardens and skylines that inspire traditional and modern architecture, and an aliveness that, is unique among China’s capitals.

Expect to find a bustling pace that reflects its international significance as a commercial hub. No question, Hong Kong is definitely exciting and alive. From Victoria Peak to Repulse Bay, the traditional Tai O fishing village to bustling Stanley Market, Hong Kong invites you to discover both its traditions and big city glamour. Beyond Hong Kong, there is fascinating Macau, a collection of islands with a rich history that juxtaposes traditional Buddhism and Portugese Catholic and commercial influences. Travel between Hong Kong and Macau via a high speed catamaran or journey across the Hong Kong – Zhuhai – Macau Bridge (HZMB), which as a bridge of some 55 kilometers, is a feat of infrastructure genius.

If it’s your first time to China, capitalize on Hong Kong’s convenient location relative to other key destinations like Macau, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shanghai. Simply top or tail any China tour with Hong Kong – you absolutely won’t regret it!

Hangzhou

Hangzhou is the picturesque capital of the Zhejiang province, located on China’s east coast. Revered by locals for its classic Chinese scenery of wispy willows and green mist covered hills, Hangzhou is reminiscent of an exquisitely embroidered silk tapestry.

The city’s main highlights add to Hangzhou’s appeal, with beautiful West Lake, Feilai Peak, the Grand Canal, and Lingyin Temple included among them. Tea is a particular specialty in Hangzhou, and no visit would be complete without partaking in Chinese tea at Meijiawu Tea Village, a Longjing tea plantation where all aspects of Chinese tea culture can be learned, savored, and enjoyed.

And if you’re in the area, make tracks to Wuzhen Water Town. It’s here you’ll find history, charming scenery, and more of the relaxed pace and lifestyle found in Hangzhou. Easily reached by train and plane from Shanghai and Suzhou, Hangzhou offers western travelers a real experience of a China not found in its bigger and busier counterparts.

Suzhou

Famous for its exquisite silk, magical gardens, and canals, Suzhou has rightly earned the title of ‘Oriental Venice’.  Why do we love Suzhou? Well, if quintessentially picturesque China is what you’re after, then Suzhou is a definite inclusion on your destination list. Find crisscrossing canals, stone bridges, enchanting classical gardens, and relaxed, easy lifestyle. And while Suzhou’s reputation extends beyond its gardens, these are a highlight and not to be missed. Among the very best in China, discover the art of garden beauty at the Humble Administrator’s Garden and Garden of the Master of Nets.

Suzhou is the birthplace of China’s silk trade and the enduring capital of silk, so your visit must include time at one of Suzhou’s silk museums or many gorgeous silk stores. Make time in your travels to learn about the exquisite art of Suzhou silk hand embroidery, renowned for the way needlework is completed on both sides of the fabric. Lovers of fine art will be hard-pressed to resist acquiring their own silken treasure.

Tongli Water Town lies within easy distance of Suzhou too. It’s here you’ll appreciate the delightfully preserved traditional buildings, private gardens, temples and dwellings. The town’s location, surrounded by five lakes, makes for charming water scenes and a tranquil atmosphere. Wander flagstone streets, or stop in at a simple teahouse for a truly relaxing experience that contrasts perfectly with the bustle that is found elsewhere in China.

Add Hangzhou or Shanghai to time spent in Suzhou and you’ll have the perfect combination for capitalizing on your time in this wonderful corner of China.

Whether you’re a savvy traveler or a first time visitor to China, doing your research is the best way to make the most of your vacation. Don’t leave the decision about the best cities to visit to chance. Get help from people who know – and truly care about your experience. Talk to the ChinaTours.com team. We’re travelers too, and we’re committed to helping you create beautiful travel memories that endure long after you’ve arrived home. We welcome online enquiries via direct contact, with responses delivered within 24 hours.

The post Best cities to visit in China: The ultimate China tour guide’s list appeared first on China Tours.

When is the best time of year to visit China? As an experienced China travel agency, it’s a question we’re asked a lot, particularly by western travelers who are visiting China for the first time.

The challenge with knowing when is the best time to go to China is narrowing the answer down to something simple. This is because there are so many things to consider: Seasons, destinations and highlights on your bucket list, personal interests (are you fascinated by history, but not a fan of big cities), how much time you have, and of course, your budget.

In the interest of keeping things simple, we’ve put together this must-read guide on the best time to go to China. It’s perfect for anyone who’s in the ‘plan and research mode’ for a China tour.

As any good travel guide will tell you, an important principle for travel – no matter where you’re off to – is that preparation is key. So dive into our latest blog about the best time to travel to China. That way, when it comes time to book and fly, you’ll be ready to bring those travel dreams to life.

Choose your season: Deciding the best time of year to visit China

There is no one best time to go to China, however the most common advice from those who know is to plan your travel for April, May, September and October. Why? Well, these are the most enjoyable from a weather and season perspective.

Spring falls in April and May (and March), making these months ideal times to visit China. Equally appealing for seasonal travel are September and October, when it is Fall. As the months that land either side of the super busy, crowded Summer, planning your holiday to align with these times will make for comfortable travel weather.

In practical terms, it means avoiding the bitter cold of Winter, which is a feature of high traffic destinations like Beijing  or Tibet , or bypassing the searing heat of places like Turpan or even Shanghai with its more humid climate. If you’re uncomfortable in weather extremes and don’t enjoy being either too hot or cold, choosing the best season to travel is an important consideration.

Those less bothered by variations in weather might take their chances and brave the cold during the heart of winter or the enormous crowds of domestic and foreign travelers during high summer. However, if it’s your first time to China, it’s wise to factor in your tolerance for these elements as they can impact negatively on the overall enjoyment of your travel experience.

China by Month

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When is it not the best time to go to China?

While we’re on the subject of timing your travel, we knew it wouldn’t be right to leave out important details about when it is not the best time to go to China.

China’s vastness and diversity make it a year-round destination, but for those seeking a refined, comfortable, and crowd-free experience – especially in iconic cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Suzhou, Xi’an, Tibet, Taiwan, Chengdu, and Hong Kong – timing is everything. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the least suitable months and periods for travel, factoring in weather extremes, public holidays, local festivals, and surges in domestic tourism.

1. Avoiding China’s Major Public Holidays and School Breaks

China’s public holidays and school vacations trigger mass domestic travel, leading to packed attractions, inflated prices, and logistical headaches. If you plan a China tour during this time, expect to pay more for any mode of transport, and to be competing with locals on every front. Western travelers who like their space and who aren’t familiar with the crowded nature of travel in China, may just find their travel experience is less like a holiday and more like a crash course in survival.The following periods are best avoided across all destinations:

1. Chinese New Year (Spring Festival)

Usually late January to mid-February. The most important holiday in China, with city-wide celebrations, temple fairs, and family gatherings. Expect massive crowds at all attractions and public spaces, as well as closures and overwhelming crowds in transport hubs and tourist sites. The holiday lasts seven days, however, we recommend avoiding the entire period, including three days prior to, and after, this important Chinese celebration (a total of 13 days).

2. Qingming Festival

Early April. A traditional festival for ancestor worship, when families visit and clean gravesites, resulting in busy cemeteries, parks, public areas and heavy traffic on motorway.

3. Labor Day (May Day)

May 1–5, known as “Golden Week.” One of the busiest travel periods, with huge crowds at all major sites and transportation hubs.

4. Dragon Boat Festival

Late May or June (5th day of the 5th lunar month). Commemorates the poet Qu Yuan with lively dragon boat races and the eating of sticky rice dumplings (zongzi). Riversides and festival venues are crowded with spectators and participants.

5. Mid-Autumn Festival

September or October (15th day of the 8th lunar month). Celebrated with family gatherings, mooncake sharing, lantern displays, and moon gazing. Parks, waterfronts, and popular city spots are filled with people enjoying lantern carnivals and festive events.

6. National Day (Golden Week)

October 1–7, the busiest travel week of the year.

7. Summer School Holiday

Early July to late August. Families and students travel en masse, especially to major cities and scenic spots.

8. Winter School Holiday

Around Chinese New Year; dates vary.

Hong Kong observes its own set of public holidays that see significant surges in local travel and crowded attractions. These include Easter (April 18–21, 2025), Buddha’s Birthday (May 5, 2025), the Chung Yeung Festival (October 29, 2025), and Christmas (December 25–26, 2025). During these periods, popular sites, shopping areas, and transportation networks are especially busy as both residents and visitors participate in festivities and family gatherings.

Again, each individual should be clear about their tolerance for these factors and decide what’s right for them. Asking for advice from others who’ve already done a China tour, or reading reviews, is a great way to find out what does and doesn’t work.

2. Seasonal Weather Tips for Each Destinations

Different weather and seasons bring unique scenery to every city. For example, the Great Wall covered in white snow during winter is a breathtaking sight, but you must also endure the harsh cold. In contrast, the Great Wall in autumn is adorned with a golden armor of leaves, offering a completely different charm. The table below provides an overview of the weather conditions in different seasons to help you choose the best time for your visit.

3. Other Local Festivals and Events

Each city hosts unique festivals that, while culturally rich, bring huge crowds:

1. Beijing: Strawberry Music Festival (May), one of China’s biggest music festivals.
2. Shanghai: Longhua Temple Fair (March/April), Yuyuan Lantern Festival (Jan/Feb), major music festivals (May/October), Shanghai International Film Festival (June), China International Import Expo (November), Shanghai Art Week and West Bund Art & Design Fair (November), international sports events such as the Shanghai Grand Prix (Formula 1) and ATP Masters 1000 tennis tournament (various months).
3. Suzhou: Suzhou Jinji Lake Music Fountain Show (summer weekends).
4. Xi’an: Silk Road International Arts Festival (September), Ancient Culture and Art Festival (September), Xi’an International Marathon (October).
5. Tibet: Saga Dawa Festival (May/June), when pilgrims flock to Lhasa and sacred sites; Shoton Festival (August), featuring Tibetan opera and giant thangka displays.
6. Taiwan: Taipei International Book Exhibition (February), Spring Scream Music Festival (April, Kenting), Taipei Marathon (December).
7. Chengdu: Major music festivals (spring/summer), including Strawberry Music Festival and Midi Music Festival; Chengdu Panda Marathon (October).
8. Hong Kong: Hong Kong International Film Festival (March/April), Art Basel Hong Kong (March), Hong Kong Sevens Rugby Tournament (March), Cheung Chau Bun Festival (May), Clockenflap Music Festival (late November/early December).

Plan Ahead for the Festivities

These events bring incredible energy and offer a wonderful glimpse into local culture—but they also tend to attract large crowds and limited accommodations. If any of these festivals catch your interest, it’s best to plan ahead. Booking early not only secures your spot but also helps you navigate the excitement with ease and comfort.

4. Final Tips for a Smooth and Enjoyable Trip

1. Plan Around Major Holidays: Schedule your visit outside of Chinese public holidays and school breaks to enjoy a more relaxed and exclusive experience.
2. Check Event Calendars: Research local festival and event dates in advance-even smaller celebrations can lead to significant crowds and higher prices.
3. Monitor Weather Conditions: Pay special attention to weather forecasts, particularly during typhoon season in coastal regions like Hong Kong and Taiwan from June to September.
4. Book Early and Strategically: If you must travel during a busy period, reserve accommodations and tickets well in advance. Consider exploring lesser-known attractions or booking VIP and private tours to avoid the largest crowds.
5. Stay Flexible: Be prepared for possible changes in schedules or access to certain sites, especially during major events or adverse weather.

What’s the best time to visit China highlights?

China is definitely a country rich in bucket list highlights. Between the Great Wall, Terracotta Army, giant pandas, and some incredible natural wonders, it’s hard enough deciding what to see, let alone pinpointing the ideal time to see them all.

With a view to making your China tour planning easy, here’s our essential China highlights list we recommend to customers. The culmination of over a decade of research, design, planning and delivery of thousands of China tours, it makes an excellent guide for anyone wanting tips for the best time to travel to China, identifying what to see and when.

Of course, there are many more destinations in China  than those listed here, however if you’re wanting a ‘best of’ experience in select destinations, you’re guaranteed to find more than enough to impress from this list.

What’s the best time of year to visit China for festivals

There are literally hundreds of festivals reflecting every conceivable interest and the 55 ethnic minority cultures in China. Be sure to do your research and ask your China travel agency to advise how you can integrate festival time into your tour itinerary.

Pandas, river cruises, the Great Wall and more: How will I know if it’s the best time to travel to China?

Clearly the decision around the timing of your China tour isn’t completely straightforward, which is why it’s worth considering a tour with a theme.

If you think a theme tour might just tick your China travel box, booking the best time to go will not only enhance your experience, there’s a better chance your vacation will make for beautiful travel memories.

Recognizing there’s a no-one-size-fits-all solution to creating the perfect tour package, we’ve devised options that meet the specific interests of our customers. Choose from tours perfect for families, iconic highlights like the Great Wall and Silk Road, or amazing natural icons such as the Yangtze River.

Explore these options for ideas.

Each traveler has their own preference for holiday experiences, so before embarking on the holiday of a lifetime with a trip to China, spend time researching and asking questions to be sure that both how and when you travel meets your expectations.

If you’re contemplating a tour, why not simplify the big decisions about the best time to travel to China. Having served customers from around the world, including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, we understand it can be hard knowing what to see and when. Research, plan, and explore the options available in our selection of best China tours, or create your own custom experience with the help of travel consultants who know and care about every detail. We welcome online enquiries via direct contact  and respond within 24 hours.

The post Best time to visit China appeared first on China Tours.

Alipay is widely recognised as one of the most important payment platforms for locals in China, with more than a whopping 80 percent of transactions and payments made daily by Chinese nationals occurring through mobile apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay. But what about those traveling from overseas?

While it may have been challenging in the past to sort payments as a visitor to China, with a combination of cash, cards, and international currency exchanges, today things are very different. Now if you’re traveling China as a tourist on a small group tour, or staying for an extended period, life is much simpler.

As travel restrictions have relaxed, foreigners visiting China today can shop with Alipay, regardless of whether their travels take them to the busiest shopping mall in Shanghai, the stunning peaks of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, or the quiet country lanes that wrap around Yangshuo. 

In fact, traveling China with Alipay is almost essential, given that today it is quite literally used everywhere as a payment platform of choice by locals alongside WeChat Pay.

Just one day in China and you’ll soon discover that traveling in China is just easier when you leave cash behind. From luxury hotels and savouring Michelin star dining, to navigating high speed trains or sampling street food, virtually every payment scenario relies on Alipay. 

Like many places that have switched to digital only transactions, cash is now rarely used, even among street food and market vendors. Not surprisingly, many merchants no longer accept cash, and even if they do, getting change can be a challenge as most people don’t carry it.

With over a billion users globally, Alipay offers a safe and reliable payment option for visitors to China, ensuring a seamless and hassle free travel experience. 

If you’re about to make your way to China for that long awaited travel adventure, follow the steps below to make Alipay your payment partner on tour.

How to get started with Alipay: Three steps to easy payments in China

Getting started with Alipay is easy. International travelers can even download the Alipay app onto their smartphone before arriving in China.

Step 1: Download and register

The first thing to do is to have Alipay at your fingertips. To do that, simply:

1. Download the app to your phone from the App Store or Google Play. 
2. Use your cell phone number to register your account. You will receive a request to verify your account as shown in the screenshot below.

The good news is a Chinese mobile number is no longer required. That’s right, you can use your existing mobile number to register your Alipay account.

Step 2: Set up account and security in Alipay

The next steps involve setting up your account and security in Alipay, the key to ensuring your account remains safe. Follow these next steps to do that:

1. Navigate to “Account”. Tap the “Account” icon at the bottom right of the screen. Open Settings (tap the gear icon in the top right corner).
2. Go to “Account and Security”, then select “Account and Security” from the menu.
3. Email and Identity Information Setup. Then tap “Email Address” and follow the steps to add your email. Tap “Identity Information” and complete the verification. 

Note that if you are installing Alipay outside of China, the app automatically switches to the international version, with English as the default language.

Step 3: Add your bank card

This next step involves adding your bank card to Alipay. Follow these next steps to be able to make payments through Alipay:

1. Tap “Add now”. On the main page, find the “Bank Card” section in the middle and tap “Add Now”. 
2. Enter your card details, then enter your card number or tap “Scan Bank Card” to upload details.

Step 4: Pay with Alipay wherever you go

Now that you’re up and running, it’s time to start paying your way around China with ease. There are two ways to do this, so it’s a good idea to be familiar with both.

1. Option 1 – Tap “Scan”, then scan the merchant-presented QR code.
2. Option 2 – Tap “Pay/collect”, then present your QR code to the merchant.

How easy is that?! You are now good to go with Alipay while traveling in China.

International users should be mindful of a couple of things when it comes to payment limits. Changes announced in March 2024 means it is possible to spend up to 2,000 USD per year without registering your ID. For transactions with a cumulative value over 500 USD, however, you will be required to provide an ID to verify your Alipay account. That means having your passport or ID card handy.

Once your Alipay account is registered and verified with Alipay, your annual transaction limit is increased to 50,000USD. Single transactions are limited to 5,000 USD. If you do need to verify your account with Alipay, you will need to upload your passport and do a quick face verification.

Holiday hassle-free with Alipay

Traveling in China with Alipay really does simplify what was not so long ago a bit of a challenge. Today, you can enjoy China travel adventures without worrying about foreign exchanges, cash, and currency conversions. In fact, Alipay’s international version provides the convenience of online translation, currency conversion, as well as other services to make life easier for international travelers holidaying in China. 

So if it’s a seamless payment experience you’re after on tour in China, then Alipay is the way to go. Curious and want to learn more? Scan the code below and discover more options with Alipay.

The post  Alipay step-by-step guide: How to travel and shop like a local in China  appeared first on China Tours.

Getting around in Hangzhou is as easygoing as the city itself. That’s quite a big call, considering how big and bustling every China destination seems to be, however, Hangzhou transportation makes touring Hangzhou a pleasure.  Come on a Hangzhou tour with ChinaTours.com and we will introduce you to the wonders of Hangzhou’s transportation.

Hangzhou transportation

Since the G20 Summit in 2016, Hangzhou has become an increasingly popular travel destination. And it’s not surprising, given the blend of immense cultural significance and natural beauty.

In order to keep up with the growing number of travelers, the city’s worked hard to establish a solid transportation system. Now, Hangzhou has many modern transport options, which make getting in, out and around the city a breeze.

Looking to effortlessly explore the picturesque capital of the Zhejiang province? Here’s what you need to know about getting around in Hangzhou.

Getting there and visiting Hangzhou’s surrounding areas

Hangzhou is easily reached by train, plane, and bus from both major cities, such as Hong Kong, Beijing, Xian, Chengdu, and Guilin, as well as international cities like Macau, Seoul, Tokyo, Bangkok, and Singapore.

Fly from Hangzhou’s Garden Airport

Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (IATA: HGH, ICAO: ZSHC) is the main airport serving the city, and one of the top ten major airports in China. It’s been given the name “Garden Airport” because of the green surroundings and flower gardens.

Not only does the airport operate domestic and regional flights within the Zhejiang province, and the rest of China, it also serves flights to east, southeast and south Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America.

The airport is located 27 kilometers east of Hangzhou city center and easily reached by shuttle bus. There are shuttle buses that’ll take you to and from the city center, or you can catch one to or from neighboring cities like Wuzhen, Yiwu, Jinhua, Shaoxing, Jiaxing, and Suzhou.

Hangzhou trains will get you on the right track

While you’re on a tour in Hangzhou, it’s definitely worth your while to explore the surrounding areas of the Wuzhen Water Town, Shanghai, Suzhou, and Huangshan. With travel times greatly reduced, China’s rapidly expanding bullet train network makes it very easy to travel between these destinations.

Most of these high-speed trains depart from Hangzhou East Railway Station, which has become a popular transportation hub since its opening in 2013. From East Railway Station, you can also easily catch a bus or metro downtown, to the airport, or to other scenic areas in the city.

A slower form of Hangzhou transportation is the regular train service.  Thus, if you prefer a slower pace, we recommend catching a train from Hangzhou Railway Station. Hangzhou Railway Station, or Cheng Zhan, as the locals call it, is the city’s main railway station, serving regular trains to nearby areas like Ningbo, Yiwu, Wenzhou, and Shanghai.

Looking to venture outside the Zhejiang province? Why not catch an overnight train as Hangzhou Railway Station also offers train rides to Beijing, Xian, Chengdu, Guangzhou, and many more major cities across China.

Getting around in Hangzhou

As we mentioned before, getting around in Hangzhou is easy and convenient. There are many different ways to explore the city’s historic, gastronomic and natural charm. The most popular forms of Hangzhou transportation are bus, metro, or taxi, but if you’re feeling a little adventurous, why not explore the city by bike?

Hassle-free travel with Hangzhou public transport

Hangzhou boasts having an extensive city bus system, consisting of regular lines, night lines, peak-hour lines, holiday lines, sightseeing lines, and BRT lines. The bus will get you to nearly all of the city’s major areas for a reasonable price.

Hangzhou has expanded its metro system to a total of 12 metro lines by Nov 2023.

Taxi

Enjoy a scenic ride around Westlake

Did you know Hangzhou has one of the largest bike sharing systems in the world? Riding a bike is the perfect way for getting around in Hangzhou and possibly the most fun form of Hangzhou transportation… Soak up the charming scenery, while enjoying the city’s unassuming, relaxed lifestyle. Our recommendation: ride around Westlake, Hangzhou’s major landmark, and relish its natural beauty and historic relics.

With 2700 rental stations dotted around the city, renting a bike in Hangzhou is pretty simple. All you have to do is go to one of the bike station booths near Westlake. Make sure to bring your passport for identification. You’ll fill in a form and receive a swipe card for picking up your bike at the docking stations. Swipe, wait for the green light, and you’re good to go!

The first hour on each bike is free, so if you’re looking for a free tour around the city, simply keep switching bikes within the hour. Just make sure to return your bike within the booth operating hours as the swipe units deactivate, and you will be charged a whole night’s rental.

Travel with ChinaTours.com

The only downfall in Hangzhou transportation is navigating through a system that’s mostly based on Chinese signage. At ChinaTours.com, we are here to help you, every step of the journey.

Whether you’re looking for tips and tricks on getting around in Hangzhou or a completely organized Hangzhou tour, we’ll help you create a holiday you’ll love. Book your tour to remember on ChinaTours.com, or talk to one of our China tour experts.

Feeling the travel bug and think a China tour might fix it? There’s no better place to start than by connecting with a China travel agency who can provide you with an experience of the real China. Why not try one of our best China tours? Traveling to 20 unique and exciting destinations, including Beijing, Xian, and Shanghai, at ChinaTours.com, we’ve designed our China tours packages to meet the needs of people who enjoy structure and flexibility when they travel. Ready for adventure? Enquire now.

The post A Guide to Getting Around in Hangzhou Like a Local appeared first on China Tours.

This China packing list by season and region is a must-read for those traveling to different parts of this incredibly diverse country. With over 20,000 kilometers of different types of terrain and climate, the seasons differ drastically across China.

A smart traveler should always be prepared for any curveball (or snowball!) mother nature throws their way. We’ve already covered the basic China packing essentials, now let’s have a look at the packing essentials by season and region.

The different regions in China

The northern part of China, such as Xinjiang and Mongolia, experiences extremely cold and dry winters, while summers are hot and humid. You can imagine the gentle spring and autumn come as a welcome in between relief for Chinese and tourists alike.

On the other side of the country, around Guangzhou and Hong Kong, there’s a more subtropical climate, with mild winters and humid summers. The south also experiences a rain season during summer. Especially between July and September, typhoons frequently linger around the southeast coastal line.

In central China, such as Shanghai, summers are long-lasting, hot and humid, while winters are short and cold. When moving further inland, towards the west, expect to get a bit colder. Due to its mountainous landscape, places such as Tibet, experience much lower temperatures all year round. Think layers, and lots of them!

Wintertime in China packing list

If you’re planning on visiting China in winter, you chose a wonderful time of year to travel. Explore the fairytale world of snow-covered Harbin in Winter, or celebrate Chinese New Year in one of China’s top cities. Chinese winters vary from extremely cold to mild, depending on where you travel. Lucky for you, this wintertime China packing list has got your covered from north to south, and anywhere in between.

Northern China

Remember the basic China packing list mentioned earlier? When traveling to China’s north in winter, remember to add these winter essentials to that list.

• Switch the windbreaker or rain jacket for a double-layered winter jacket (preferably water resistant)
• Switch two short sleeve shirts for two extra long sleeve shirts
• Two extra sweaters
• A pair of long underwear pants and tops
• Warm socks (preferably wool blend)
• A winter hat, gloves, and a scarf

You may want to take a few summer items off the list, such as shorts and sandals. After all, you want room for souvenirs, right?!

Southern China

Winters are mild in southern China. However, temperatures can still drop in the mornings and evenings. That’s why we, as China tour experts, recommend only a few edits to your basic China packing list. Be sure these make it into your bag:

• One extra sweater and an extra long sleeve shirt
• One pair of warm (wool) socks
• A winter hat, gloves, and a scarf
• Remove sandals

Western China

Brace yourself! Because winters in the west of China are known to be long and cold. However, the stunning mountain views will make up for most of it. The best way to prepare for the western cold is by removing all summer items (i.e. shorts, sandals, sleeveless tops) from your China packing list and adding the following items.

• One or two pairs of thermal underwear shirts and pants
• A pair of snow boots with good grip
• Sunscreen and sunglasses with good UV protection
• A warm winter jacket (hoods recommended)
• Two more sweaters
• Waterproof pants
• A winter hat, gloves, and scarf

China summer packing list

From the surreal natural scenery in Zhangjiajie to even the remotest regions of Tibet, all of China comes to life during summertime. Chinese summer can get hot, wet, and humid so remember to pack some rain gear. In summer, the basic rule of thumb is packing light and smart, and quick-dry fabrics are a must. Here’s what else you need to know about summertime packing for China.

Northern China

Enjoy the extended daylight hours on the hot summer days in northern China. For traveling in China’s north in the summertime, only a few adjustments to your basic China packing list are necessary.

• Bring a small, portable umbrella or a thin rain jacket, as it could start pouring down with rain completely without warning
• Switch one pair of long pants with two extra pair of shorts
• Switch one long sleeve shirt for two extra short sleeve shirts (preferably sweat-wicking)

Southern China

Famous for its monsoon rains, summertime in southern China is not only hot and humid but also very, very wet. As such, make sure your basic packing list is “waterproof”.

• A heavy-duty umbrella or rain jacket for those heavy monsoon rains
• Add waterproof shoes or adventure sandals and remove the pair of boots from the list
• Quick-dry towels
• Switch one pair of long pants with two extra pair of shorts
• Remove all but one long sleeve option and switch them with two extra short sleeve shirts

Western China

Even though it can get really hot in western China, summertime is the most popular time to visit. If you really need to cool down, just head further inland towards the mountains, where temperatures are a lot more pleasant. Your China packing list for the west should include the following extras:

• Sunglasses with UV-protection
• An extra pair of shorts
• One or two extra short sleeve shirts instead of long sleeve options

Springtime and Autumn China packing list

Late spring and early fall are considered the best time of year to travel to China. The weather is mild and delightful, and highlights won’t be completely swamped with tourists. When it comes to packing spring essentials, the original list has got you covered for your trip to southern China. Although you may want to squeeze in a warm jacket and a pair of wool socks if you’re traveling south in autumn. For your trip up north or to the west, you will just need a few minor adjustments. Let’s take a look.

Northern China

• A warm jacket
• Add one pair of long thermal underwear pants and shirt
• Add a face mask for dust storms sweeping through many cities across northern China in the springtime
• Add a pair of warm (wool) socks)
• Add a hat, scarf, and gloves

Western China

• Add sunglasses with UV-protection
• Add a thin jacket or sweater
• Add a face mask for the dust storms in spring
• Add a hat, scarf, and gloves
• Remove sandals
• When traveling in autumn, remove the rest of the warm weather gear too

Congratulations! By getting through this thorough China packing list, you are now officially ready to withstand any type of weather in all of the different regions in China. Now it’s time for you to go on and create your next beautiful travel memory on one of our China tour packages.

Traveling with ChinaTours.com

Not sure when or where to start your China adventure? Browse through our wide range of best China tours, or talk to one of our China tour consultants today to help you create and book the tour of your dreams.

Wondering which cities to visit on your upcoming China tour? Don’t let confusion and overwhelm stop you from planning and designing a China tour that suits your dream trip. With over a decade of experience at creating tours to twenty locations in China, we can help you finally cross those must-see destinations and sights off your bucket list. Let’s get you organized and on the road to a real experience of China. 

The post What to Pack: a Thorough China Packing List by Season and Region appeared first on China Tours.

How to pack for China – we believe this is the ultimate China packing essentials checklist. It’s a big call, isn’t it? But we think we’ve got this one covered.

With China tour design and travel in our DNA, we know a thing or two about China packing essentials.

When you’re a first-time traveler on a multi-day China tour, it’s good to have a comprehensive list of China packing essentials to make sure you’ve thought of everything you might want to bring.

After all, nothing ruins a day of sightseeing like blurry tour highlights because you forgot to pack your glasses. Not to mention showing up to spring snow in Beijing with nothing for footwear except sandals.

How to pack for China – the essentials

When you forget to pack the essentials, you risk ruining the opportunity to create a truly memorable China travel experience.

Want to avoid disastrous packing mishaps? Here’s everything you need to know to start your memorable travel experience from the moment you begin to pack your luggage.

China packing essentials: covering the basics

China is anything but small, covering over 20 000 kilometers of different terrains and climates. If your plan is to set foot in multiple regions of China, it’s important to pack accordingly. Think layers for all seasons.

Regardless of which season or region you travel to, your suitcase should at least include these China packing essentials:

1. A valid passport (plus some copies), airline tickets, the necessary visas, related health certificates, and other important documents.
2. Your travel itinerary and contact details from your tour operator, including direct phone numbers for ‘just in case’.
3. Credit card(s), traveler cheques, a certain amount of Yuan, and some emergency cash.
4. Travel insurance.
5. All necessary chargers, a converter, and a plug adaptor (you can buy these in China, but we recommend buying one prior to travel).
6. A pen, so you’re prepared to fill out customs forms on the plane.
7. Technology, including headphones and camera (or your smartphone)
8. A basic first-aid kit that includes hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes (you’ll need these everywhere you go in China!)
9. A daypack for carrying the essentials while you’re out and about.

China clothing essentials: pack light and smart

Traveling to different regions of China doesn’t mean over-packing. On the contrary, our tip here is: pack light and smart. Make quick-dry fabrics your best China tour friend. Include clothing that can be worn on your active adventures, but also easily dressed up for a night out with a different pair of shoes or a scarf.

Wondering how to pull it all together. We’ve done the hard work for you. Check out our China clothing essentials list right here:

• 3 pairs of comfortable pants
• 1 or 2 pairs of shorts
• 3-5 short sleeve shirts
• 1-2 long sleeve shirts
• 1 “dressy” outfit
• A warm jumper or hoodie
• 3-4 pairs of underwear
• 4-6 pairs of socks
• 2 jackets, one fleece, and one windbreaker/rain jacket
• Sun-blocking hat
• Swimsuit
• A pair of good walking shoes
• Flip flops
• A pair of adventure sandals (optional)
• A pair of comfortable, casual shoes (optional)
• Waterproof and winter-proof boots (optional)

And there you are! Your China tour packing list is done and there is no longer any need to be concerned about how to pack for China – share this knowledge around!

One side note on clothes in China. In Chinese culture, pale skin is synonymous with nobility and wealth and therefore considered more beautiful. This is why so many Chinese men and women cover their skin with long sleeves and pants. While Western travelers will always stand out on tour in China, you can blend in more seamlessly by covering up, just like the locals.

Whether you’re soaking up the dramatic landscape of the Three Gorges, or the city-allure of Beijing, keep these China packing essentials in mind.

Depending on when and where you go, you can simply adjust this basic China packing list by season and region. And for those inevitable items you’ll forget, there’s no need to worry. You can get almost everything you need in China.

Still not sure about how to pack for China? Talk to one of our travel consultants today. They’ll take care of every detail, so you can experience the real China.

Come and tour with ChinaTours.com

ChinaTours.com is a leading provider of China tours, serving travelers who want an experience of real China for over ten years. ChinaTours.com offers small group, family tours and private tours in China and the surrounding region.

Feeling the travel bug and think a China tour might fix it? There’s no better place to start than by connecting with a China travel agency who can provide you with an unforgettable China experience. Traveling to 20 unique and exciting destinations, including Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai, we at ChinaTours.com designed our tours to meet the needs of people who enjoy structure and flexibility when they travel. 

The post How to Pack for China – The Ultimate China Packing Essentials Checklist: Important Things to Pack When Travelling to China. appeared first on China Tours.

Many first time travelers to China want to know how to make the most of their multi-day China tour. It’s an important consideration. A China tour is no small undertaking.  Between booking arrangements, traveling vast distances to get there, the extreme contrast in culture and food, and language differences, it’s easy to feel a little overwhelmed.  This is why we have prepared for you, with help from our local China tour guides, a multi-day China tour checklist.

Multi-day China tour checklist

Want to avoid the confusion and create a beautiful travel memory? Follow these seven tips and discover how to make the most of your upcoming multi-day China tour.

#1 Look for flexibility: in bookings, travel schedules and food (Create travel memories on the go)

Joining a small tour group in China is fun. Tour activities are planned, organized and paid for in advance. The great benefit is, you’ll always have a clear direction of where you’re going and what you’re doing.

But what about flexibility? The last thing you want to feel is you’re on a school excursion with no opportunity to explore.

The best multi-day tours offer a combination of both: structure and flexibility.

Say you arrive in Guilin, and on the way, you read about the beautiful Longji Rice Terraces. Spontaneously, you ask your guide if it’s possible to swap out a day in Guilin with a side trip to Longji.

The best companies will make it happen. They’ll also ensure you have ample time on tour to explore on your own and eat the food you want.

China is a mecca for both domestic and international tourists and there is big business being made by companies who bring busloads of visitors to their doors, working to a very strict time and destination schedule.

If you’re looking for a real experience of China, look for tours that provide flexibility and structure. Even consider booking a private tour for your own group of friends or family. Private tours offer maximum flexibility around scheduling and allow you to choose your own adventure.

# 2 Make sure your hotel base is the city heart (More time for real experiences)

Time is always a premium on tours – see as much as possible, make every minute count. So, you don’t want to be on the bullet train out of Beijing without having ticked all your highlight boxes.

This scenario is entirely possible if your hotel base is anywhere other than the city center. As a function of its size, population, and the number of people moving around, travel times – even within the city – can suck up huge amounts of time.

The trick to getting around this is booking multi-day tours with centrally located hotels. While many tour operators say their hotels are ‘downtown’, it’s wise to check if they really are. Hotels located 45 minutes to an hour from major sites cuts into precious time that could be used for seeing sites, not just traveling to see them. It all adds up to more experience.

#3 Avoid commission-based shopping tours (See real China instead)

If your interest in travel is in having real experiences, choose a no commission-based shopping tour. The guides and drivers working for these companies rely on the income from commissions they generate by bringing tourists to certain stores and warehouses.

The good news is the best China tour companies pay their guides and drivers well above what they’d make if they were only relying on commissions. Providing this certainty around income means they can focus on what’s most important – providing travelers with a real experience of China.

How do you know if the tour you’re booking is a commission-based shopping tour? Just ask! Your travel company should be able to explain their approach to working with their local guides, drivers and tour operators. Anything with commission-based shopping stops is best given a wide berth.

#4 Have access to help when you need it (Hello, English speaking guide!)

A first-time trip to China can be daunting, not least because the culture is unfamiliar and language is a challenge. A multi-day tour with an English-speaking guide is the ideal solution.

With English now widely and well-spoken in China, especially in its big cities, a world of problems can be solved by your local guide. More than someone who points out the important information about emperors, dynasties, and artifacts, the best guides will jump in to help with any and every need.

Available on speed dial 24/7? Definitely.

Lost phone? No problem. Let’s find it.

Book a tour add on? Love to. Consider it done.

Want an experience of real local food? Fantastic! Let’s order and eat.

Bilingual travel guides in China can really make your trip a more deeply memorable experience. After all, it’s the people we meet through travel that help us create beautiful travel memories, isn’t it?

For a first time multi-day trip to China, invest in a tour where your guide takes care of you, every step of the Great Wall and beyond.

#5 Mix it up (Code for: balance big cities with beautiful landscapes)

A China initiate could be forgiven for thinking there are only big cities dotting the country, but nothing could be further from the truth.

China is a richly diverse land and nowhere is this more evident than in its landscapes: the towering karst pillars of Zhangjiajie (think Avatar), idyllic Li River, desert-scapes of Dunhuang along the Silk Road, and the icy forever views from Lhasa in Tibet, together and individually make for great travel memories.

As China’s cities have morphed into mirror images of a typical Western metropolis, it’s great to balance city-busy with inspiring landscapes, so mix it up.

And if your tour is focused in the cities, why not ask if you can add on a side trip to one of China’s more exotic destinations?

#6 No early take-offs (Switch off your alarm clock)

You’ve worked hard to take time off for your China tour, so why would you want to travel and set the alarm clock for ‘0 dark hundred’?

The best China tours have sensible travel schedules. Why? Because they want you to relax and enjoy your trip. Imagine arriving home from your China multi-day tour more exhausted than when you left. No thanks.

Tour schedules with sensible start times, including for inter-city flights, means you get maximum experience, minimum hassle while on tour.

#7 Book your China multi-day tour with people who know China (Seriously)

We’ve already said that China is a big place – and it is. So how do you make the most of every destination and your travel time? Book a China tour with people who know China. No brainer, right?

Any time spent traveling is precious, so it’s wise to look for tours that have been designed our tours to optimize every moment you’re on the road. Savvy companies with tour design in their DNA will know:

• The best sites to see and when
• The ideal way to travel
• How you can experience the real China

It’s true that technology today means most things can be organized online and via email, but if you really want to talk to a real person before you arrive, find a tour company offering that facility. Every tour starts with a conversation, but it should end with a beautiful travel memory.

Will yours?

ChinaTours.com, we tick all the boxes

ChinaTours.com offers private and small group tours all across China, where you can choose from our best China tours which include the likes of the Great Wall of China Tours, Yangtze River Cruises, and specifically designed China family tours.

First-time travelers to China will love the ChinaTours.com approach to organizing, planning, and taking a tour with us. With a deep understanding of Western travelers needs, we provide flexible travel schedules that allow ample time for exploring and enjoying an experience of real China. With centrally located four and five star hotel accommodation, experienced and friendly local guides, and your safety our priority, we make travel in China the memorable experience it should be. We tick all the boxes!

The post The Best Multi-day China Tour Checklist: 7 Things to Tick Off Before Booking Your First Trip to China appeared first on China Tours.