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China
Beijing
Moderate
From $39 /day
China
China is a land of profound contrasts where ancient dynastic history meets a pulse-pounding, futuristic present. You can spend your morning walking the mist-shrouded ramparts of the Great Wall and your evening gazing at the neon-lit skyscrapers of Shanghai’s Pudong district. It is a vast country that rewards curiosity with its diverse landscapes, ranging from the surreal karst peaks of Guilin to the high-altitude spiritualism of the Tibetan plateau. Beyond the famous landmarks, the true magic lies in the sensory details: the aroma of street-side baozi, the rhythmic click of mahjong tiles in public parks, and the effortless efficiency of high-speed trains. Visiting China is an invitation to witness one of the world's oldest civilizations reinventing itself at an incredible pace.
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We built this guide using official tourism data, local travel insights, and real pricing from our city guides, so you can plan your trip with confidence.
2 cities
6 guides
$39 – $126 Daily Budget
Quick Facts
Capital
Beijing
Languages
Mandarin Chinese
Currency
Renminbi (CNY)
1 $ ≈ 6.89 ¥
Plug Type
Type A/C/I (220V, 50Hz)
Driving Side
Right
Dial Code
+86
Entry Requirements
Check requirements →
Time Zone
China Standard Time (UTC+8; no DST)
Emergency
110 (Police), 119 (Fire), 120 (Medical), 122 (Traffic accidents)
Why Visit China
Unrivaled Imperial History
China offers an unparalleled journey through time with landmarks like the Forbidden City and the Terracotta Warriors. These sites provide a tangible connection to thousands of years of imperial rule and architectural genius.
A Culinary Odyssey
From the fiery spices of Sichuan to the delicate dim sum of the south, China’s regional cuisines are incredibly diverse and sophisticated. Every province offers a distinct flavor profile that goes far beyond what is found in international Chinese restaurants.
Modern Engineering Marvels
The country is home to the world's largest high-speed rail network and some of the most ambitious urban architecture on the planet. Traveling between cities at 350km/h provides a fascinating look at the nation's rapid technological advancement.
Spectacular Natural Wonders
Nature lovers can explore the 'Avatar' mountains of Zhangjiajie or cruise the serene Li River through limestone karst landscapes. The geography ranges from tropical islands in the south to the vast Gobi Desert in the north.
High-Tech Convenience
China has leapfrogged traditional banking with a highly integrated mobile payment and services culture. Visitors can experience a nearly cashless society where everything from bike shares to five-star meals is managed with a quick scan.
Top Experiences
Top-rated tours and activities in China
Cities & Destinations
Regions
Northern China
Centering on the capital city of Beijing, this region is the heart of imperial legacy and home to the most famous sections of the Great Wall. You can explore grand palaces, visit the Temple of Heaven, and wander through traditional hutong alleyways that offer a glimpse into old Beijing.
Eastern China
This prosperous region is anchored by the global financial hub of Shanghai and the historical 'water towns' like Suzhou and Hangzhou. It is characterized by a blend of colonial architecture, futuristic skylines, and classical Chinese gardens that have inspired poets for centuries.
Central China
Best known for the ancient city of Xi’an, this region served as the gateway to the Silk Road. It is a hub for archaeology and history, most famously housing the thousands of life-sized Terracotta Warriors that guard the tomb of China's first emperor.
Southwestern China
Comprising Sichuan and Yunnan provinces, this area is famous for its laid-back lifestyle, spicy cuisine, and giant panda sanctuaries. The landscape shifts from lush valleys to the dramatic, snow-capped peaks of the eastern Himalayas.
Southern China
This region offers some of China's most iconic scenery, particularly the river landscapes of Guilin and Yangshuo. It is also the birthplace of Cantonese culture and home to the massive industrial and trade hubs of the Pearl River Delta.
Cities & Destinations:
Best Time to Visit
The ideal times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is most temperate. Travelers should be mindful of major national holidays which see massive domestic crowds.
Peak Season
Jul, Aug, Oct
July and August are peak summer months with high heat, humidity, and large crowds due to school holidays. The first week of October (Golden Week) is exceptionally busy as millions of domestic tourists travel to major sites like the Great Wall.
Shoulder Season
Apr, May, Jun, Sep
Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September) offer the most pleasant temperatures, typically 10–23°C (50–73°F), with blooming flowers or colorful foliage. June is a good transition month before the extreme summer heat begins.
Off-Peak
Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Winter is biting cold in the north but offers significant discounts on hotels and fewer crowds. Northern cities like Harbin are popular in January and February for ice festivals, while the south remains milder at 15–20°C (59–68°F).
Getting Around
China boasts one of the world's most advanced and affordable transport networks, centered on a massive high-speed rail system and extensive urban metro lines.
Train
High-speed trains (G, D, and C class) are the primary way to travel between cities, reaching speeds of 350km/h. A second-class ticket from Beijing to Shanghai costs ~$82–$106 / ¥568–¥730 and takes 4–5 hours.
Metro
Major cities like Beijing and Shanghai have world-class subway systems with English signage. Fares are very low, typically costing ~$0.47–$1.41 / ¥3.24–¥9.73 per journey depending on the distance.
Ride-Hailing
Didi is the Chinese equivalent of Uber and is essential for tourists. It is integrated into the Alipay app and provides English interfaces, making it much more reliable than hailing traditional taxis.
Shared Bicycle
Dockless shared bikes and e-bikes are ubiquitous in cities. Users scan a QR code via Alipay or WeChat to unlock them for very low fees, often less than ~$1.18 / ¥8.11 per 30 minutes.
Food & Drink
Chinese food culture is built on the concept of 'the eight great traditions,' emphasizing balance, texture, and regional ingredients. Meals are typically shared family-style, reflecting a deep-seated social emphasis on community and hospitality.
Must Try
Bei Jing Kao Ya
Often called Peking Duck, this dish features thin, crispy skin and succulent meat served with pancakes, hoisin sauce, and scallions.
Xiao Long Bao
These delicate soup dumplings from the Shanghai region are filled with pork and a rich, hot broth that bursts when you take a bite.
Huo Guo
Sichuan Hot Pot is a communal dining experience where you cook various meats and vegetables in a simmering pot of spicy, numbing broth.
Gong Bao Ji Ding
Commonly known as Kung Pao Chicken, this classic dish combines diced chicken, peanuts, and dried chilies in a savory-sweet sauce.
Biang Biang Mian
Thick, wide, hand-pulled noodles from Shaanxi province that are topped with chili oil, garlic, and vinegar for a bold, hearty meal.
Rou Jia Mo
Frequently referred to as a Chinese burger, this street food staple consists of spiced, shredded pork stuffed inside a crispy flatbread.
Ma Po Dou Fu
A famous Sichuan dish of soft tofu set in a spicy, oily sauce flavored with fermented beans, minced meat, and numbing peppercorns.
Money & Costs
China is a highly developed digital economy where mobile payments have almost entirely replaced cash and physical cards. It offers excellent value for high-quality infrastructure at mid-range prices.
Tipping
Tipping is not a traditional custom and is not expected in restaurants or taxis. However, tipping private tour guides (~$12–$18 / ¥81–¥122/day) and drivers is now common practice.
Cards
Mobile QR payments are dominant, but card acceptance and cash support have improved. Bank cards can be accepted where card-network logos are displayed (UnionPay is widely accepted), and many visitors link an overseas card in Alipay/WeChat Pay to pay by QR. China has also expanded cash acceptance in key venues.
ATMs
ATMs are widely available in cities, especially at major banks like ICBC and Bank of China. Most accept international cards, though foreign transaction fees may apply.
Culture & Etiquette
Chinese society is deeply rooted in Confucian values, emphasizing respect for hierarchy, elders, and the concept of 'face.' Understanding these social nuances will help you navigate interactions with grace and avoid accidental offense.
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Use both hands when giving or receiving business cards, gifts, or money as a sign of respect.
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Don't stick your chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice, as this resembles incense burned for the dead and is considered an unlucky omen.
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Greet the oldest person in a group first to acknowledge their seniority and status.
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Don't be offended by a lack of personal space in crowded areas; pushing and jostling are common in busy metro stations and markets.
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Offer a light handshake and a slight nod when meeting someone for the first time, as firm handshakes can be perceived as aggressive.
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Don't tip in standard restaurants or taxis, as it is not a traditional custom and may even be refused.
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Expect to pay a tip of ~$12–$18 / ¥81–¥122 per day to private tour guides and drivers, as this has become a modern expectation for international tourists.
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Don't tap your bowl with your chopsticks, as this is associated with begging and is considered extremely rude behavior at the table.
Safety & Health
Mainland China is generally very safe for tourists in terms of street crime. However, some governments advise increased caution due to the risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws (including exit bans). Surveillance is high and laws/regulations are enforced strictly.
Tap Water
Not safe to drink
Vaccinations
Recommended health prep includes being up to date on routine vaccines and, depending on itinerary, vaccines such as Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Typhoid; Japanese encephalitis and rabies vaccination may be considered for certain rural/long-stay plans.
Common Scams
- ⚠ Tea House Scam: Friendly 'students' invite you to a traditional tea ceremony then leave you with a bill for ~$177–$589 / ¥1,217–¥4,056.
- ⚠ Art Student Scam: Strangers pressure you to visit an 'exhibition' and buy overpriced, mass-produced artwork.
- ⚠ Fake Taxis: Unmetered vehicles at airports that charge exorbitant fixed rates; always use official taxi queues or Didi.
- ⚠ Counterfeit Currency: Be cautious if a vendor tries to swap your large bill for a fake one during a transaction.
Healthcare in major cities is high quality but not free. Tourists should visit 'International Clinics' in Beijing or Shanghai for English-speaking staff, and comprehensive travel insurance is essential.
Language
While English is common among staff at international hotels and major airports, it is not widely spoken by the general public. Translation apps and offline maps are essential tools for navigation.
English Spoken: Limited English
Key Phrases
| Meaning | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Nǐ hǎo | nee-how |
| Thank you | Xièxie | shyeh-shyeh |
| Excuse me / Sorry | Duìbuqǐ | dway-boo-chee |
| How much does it cost? | Duōshǎo qián? | dwo-shao chyen |
| I want this one | Wǒ yào zhè ge | wor yao juh guh |
| Where is the bathroom? | Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ? | tse-suoh dzai na-lee |
| Check, please | Mǎidān | my-dan |
Visa & Entry
China currently offers multiple visa-free pathways. (1) Unilateral 30-day visa-free entry for ordinary-passport holders of a published set of countries through Dec 31, 2026 (note: Russia's published window is Sep 15, 2025–Sep 14, 2026). (2) Separate mutual visa exemption agreements exist with some countries (e.g., Singapore/Thailand/Malaysia). (3) Up to 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit (TWOV) is available for eligible nationals via designated ports/areas with strict onward-ticket requirements. UK: visa-free travel has been announced but, per UK travel advice, is not yet implemented as of Feb 2026.
Max Stay
Up to 30 days per entry for eligible visa-free entries (some agreements also include a cumulative-stay rule); up to 240 hours for visa-free transit (TWOV) where eligible.
Passport Validity
Typically at least 6 months remaining on arrival (and usually 2 blank pages).
Visa-free for
Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Brunei, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Oman, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Uruguay
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why you can trust this guide
Jan Křenek
35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data
Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.
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