China

China is a remarkable country of contrasts, where ultra-modern megacities stand alongside ancient temples, and centuries-old traditions seamlessly blend with technological innovations. From the majestic Great Wall to the futuristic skyscrapers of Shanghai, there is something special for everyone.

Key Highlights

• Great Wall of China and Forbidden City, Beijing — The Mutianyu sections (45 yuan) are less crowded than Badaling, making them ideal for visits at 8:00 AM or after 4:00 PM. The Forbidden City requires online booking (limited to 80,000 visitors), with tickets priced at 40-60 yuan. An audio guide for an additional 40 yuan significantly enriches the experience.
• High-speed trains — A point of national pride, China boasts 40,000 km of tracks. The Beijing-Shanghai route takes just 4 hours instead of 12. Ticket prices start at 550 yuan for second class and 1,750 yuan for business class. Book through Trip.com or 12306; remember that your passport serves as your ticket.
• Terracotta Army and Pandas — In Xi’an, you can explore 8,000 unique clay warriors for 120 yuan. The panda base in Chengdu (55 yuan) is best visited in the morning between 8:00-10:00 when the animals are most active.
• Avatar Movie Landscapes — The quartzite pillars of Zhangjiajie inspired the creators of the planet Pandora. Tickets are priced at 225/115 yuan, and the glass bridge requires advance booking for 278 yuan.
• Practical Tips for China Tourists — Google, Facebook, and Instagram are blocked in China. eSIM cards (available for $15 for 1GB over 7 days) can help you avoid needing a VPN. Picture menus can help overcome language barriers, but always ask about spice levels in dishes.
• Optimal Time and Transport — The best times to visit are in spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). Avoid traveling during Chinese New Year and “Golden Week.” Use DiDi for rides instead of street taxis, and take advantage of the metro system in 47 cities, which features English signage.

About This China Travel Guide

This comprehensive guide is designed for independent travelers exploring China, often referred to as the Middle Kingdom. It covers practical aspects of trip planning, routes through key regions, transportation logistics, and cultural insights.

What the Guide Includes:

• Transportation — Information on high-speed trains, the metro, DiDi taxis, and domestic flights, along with pricing and features.
• Regions and Cities — Detailed descriptions of attractions in Beijing, Xi’an, Sichuan, Shanghai, Guilin, and Hunan.
• Practical Advice — Tips on visas, currency, internet access, safety, and the nuances of Chinese cuisine.
• Budget Planning — Options range from hostels at 80 yuan to luxury hotels at 800+ yuan per night.
• Ready Itinerary — A detailed 7-day travel plan is included.
• Cultural Nuances — Information on tea ceremonies, tipping, and ways to overcome language barriers.

When to Visit China for Independent Travel

Planning a solo trip to China requires careful consideration of timing. The ideal periods are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is comfortable across the country and nature is particularly beautiful.

Avoid traveling during Chinese New Year (January-February) and “Golden Week” (October 1-7) due to large crowds and high prices.

The climate in China varies significantly: the north experiences a continental climate with cold winters (temperatures dropping to -20°C), while the south is hot and humid in summer, with temperatures reaching up to +35°C and humidity levels of 80-90%.

Transportation: How to Get Around China

High-Speed Trains — China’s Pride

China boasts the world’s most developed high-speed rail network, featuring over 40,000 km of tracks. The journey from Beijing to Shanghai takes only 4 hours, compared to 12 hours on regular trains. Ticket prices range from 550 to 1,750 yuan, depending on the class:

• Second class — 550 yuan, comfortable 2+3 seating.
• First class — 930 yuan, 2+2 seating, offering more space.
• Business class — 1,750 yuan, transforming seats.

You can book tickets through Trip.com (in English) or the official 12306 app (in Chinese). Your passport serves as your ticket, and physical tickets are not required. During holidays and weekends, tickets sell out quickly, so it’s advisable to book 2-3 days in advance.

Metro in Major Cities

The metro system operates in 47 cities across China, with the most extensive networks in Beijing and Shanghai. Fares range from 2 to 5 yuan, depending on distance, and trains run every 2-3 minutes.

Signs are available in both Chinese and English. Keep your ticket until you exit; if you travel beyond your paid distance, you’ll need to pay extra upon exit. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines or counters located at the entrance.

Taxis and Ride-sharing

Instead of hailing a taxi on the street, use the DiDi app (similar to Uber). The registration process is straightforward, payments can be made through the app, making it safer and often cheaper. Since drivers typically don’t speak English, it’s helpful to show your destination in Chinese or on the map within the app.

The average fare is 1.5-2 yuan per kilometer, plus a base fare of 8-12 yuan. Be aware that prices may double during rush hours.

Domestic Flights

For longer distances, flying is a convenient option. For example, a Beijing-Xi’an flight costs around 800 yuan and takes 2 hours, compared to 6 hours by train. Major airlines include Air China, China Eastern, and China Southern.

Booking tickets early can yield lower prices. Domestic airports are less congested, so aim to check in 1.5 hours before your departure.

Buses and Intercity Transport

Buses offer the cheapest means of travel, although they are also the slowest option. Tickets can be purchased at bus stations or from the driver. Prices vary based on distance and bus class, but buses may not be very convenient for tourists due to language barriers.

Car Rental

International driver’s licenses are not valid in China. A temporary Chinese driver’s license must be obtained, which requires time and language proficiency. Therefore, car rental is impractical for tourists; utilizing public transport or taxis is a better choice.

China Attractions: Main Regions

Beijing — Cultural Capital

As the capital of China, Beijing is home to many of the country’s key historical attractions. Plan to spend a minimum of 4-5 days to fully explore the city.

Great Wall of China

The Great Wall spans 21,000 kilometers. When visiting, you can choose between two main sections:

• Badaling — This is the most popular section of the Great Wall, located 70 km from Beijing. Tickets cost 45 yuan, with an additional 100 yuan for the cable car. The infrastructure is well-developed, but it can get crowded, especially from 10 AM to 3 PM.
• Mutianyu — A less crowded section, situated 80 km from the capital. Entry tickets are also 45 yuan, with the cable car costing 100 yuan. This area offers more scenic views and is particularly suitable for photography.

Professional Tip: Arrive at opening time, 8 AM, or after 4 PM. Wear comfortable shoes, as some sections are quite steep. In winter, the wall may be slippery, and in summer, be sure to bring plenty of water.

Forbidden City Beijing

The Forbidden City is the world’s largest palace complex, comprising 980 buildings across 72 hectares. It served as the residence for 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties and is now a unique museum.

In high season, entrance tickets cost 60 yuan; in low season, they are 40 yuan. Tickets must be purchased online in advance, as there is a daily limit of 80,000 visitors. An audio guide is available for 40 yuan, which greatly enhances the experience.

Access to secret gardens and imperial chambers is an additional 10 yuan. Plan for a tour duration of 3-4 hours, and arrive at opening time (8:30 AM) to avoid the crowds from Chinese tour groups.

Temple of Heaven (Tiantan)

This 15th-century architectural masterpiece spans 273 hectares. The entrance ticket costs 15 yuan, while full access to all buildings is 35 yuan. Don’t skimp on this, as the main attractions are located in the paid zone.

The central building, the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, is an incredible wooden structure constructed without a single nail. The Imperial Vault of Heaven is famous for its Echo Wall, known for transmitting sounds over long distances.

Visitors over 60 can enter for free. In the morning, locals gather here to exercise—playing Chinese checkers, singing in choirs, and practicing tai chi. This provides a wonderful opportunity to witness authentic Beijing life.

What Else to See in Beijing:

• Tiananmen Square — the world’s largest city square (440,000 sq. m).
• Summer Palace, featuring scenic Kunming Lake (ticket: 30 yuan).
• Hutongs — traditional alleys with historic homes.
• Peking duck at Quanjude restaurant (established in 1864).

Xi’an — Ancient Capital on the Silk Road

Xi’an was the capital for 13 dynasties for over 1,000 years and served as the eastern starting point of the Great Silk Road. The city retains a unique heritage, showcasing everything from imperial tombs to Muslim quarters, reflecting the cultural diversity of this significant crossroads of civilizations.

Terracotta Army

The Terracotta Army, consisting of 8,000 clay warriors, has guarded the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, for over 2,000 years. Each statue is unique, and archaeologists have found no two identical faces among the thousands of figures.

Tickets are 120 yuan. The museum is located 35 km from Xi’an, which can be reached by bus #306 or taxi (200 yuan). Guided tours are available for 50 yuan and provide insights into the historical significance of the discovery.

The discovery was made accidentally in 1974 when local farmers were digging a well. Excavations continue today, and you might even witness new archaeological findings.

Other Xi’an Attractions:

• Ming Dynasty city wall (14 km perimeter, bike rentals available).
• Muslim Quarter with Great Mosque (built in 742 AD).
• Bell and Drum Towers — symbols of the ancient capital.

Sichuan — Nature and Famous Pandas

Sichuan Province is renowned not only as the home of giant pandas but also for its spicy cuisine and stunning natural wonders. The region features several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, from the vibrant lakes of Jiuzhaigou to the limestone terraces of Huanglong, as well as mountainous landscapes that have inspired Chinese poets for centuries.

Chengdu and Pandas

The Panda Research Base is the only place in the world where visitors can see these incredible animals in a semi-natural environment. The best time to visit is in the morning (8:00–10:00) when the pandas are most active.

Entrance tickets cost 55 yuan, and additional programs, such as holding a panda, start at 2,000 yuan and require advance booking. The base is located 10 km from downtown Chengdu, easily accessible by taking the metro to Panda Avenue station.

Chengdu also features China’s spiciest cuisine. Be sure to try the Sichuan hotpot, but warn your waiters about any low spice tolerance—spice levels here can be overwhelming.

Jiuzhaigou

The “Valley of Nine Villages” boasts 118 colorful lakes, waterfalls, and mountain peaks. This UNESCO site is especially stunning in autumn when the foliage turns golden.

During peak season, entrance tickets are 190 yuan, and a bus pass for the park costs 90 yuan. The park is vast, but you can see the main routes in one day. Overnight accommodations in nearby hotels range from 300 to 800 yuan per night.

Huanglong Reserve

Known as “Yellow Dragon,” this area is famed for its limestone terraces filled with turquoise water. A cable car ascends to an altitude of 3,400 meters, offering breathtaking views. Tickets cost 170 yuan, and the round-trip cable car fare is 80 yuan.

Important: High altitude may cause breathing difficulties. Ascend slowly and consider bringing portable oxygen, which is available on-site for 15 yuan. Even in summer, temperatures rarely exceed 15°C.

Leshan Giant Buddha

This 71-meter statue, carved into a cliff in the 8th century, is the world’s largest stone Buddha sculpture. Entrance tickets cost 90 yuan, and a boat trip to view the statue from the river is 70 yuan.

The descent to the statue’s base via a narrow path requires caution, particularly in rainy weather. The climb back up can take 30 to 40 minutes, so another option is to view the statue from a boat, which also provides better photo opportunities.

Hunan — Land of “Avatar”

Hunan Province gained fame from the movie “Avatar,” as the local quartzite pillars of Zhangjiajie inspired the film’s depiction of Pandora. The region is also known as the birthplace of the spicy Hunan cuisine and Mao Zedong.

Zhangjiajie National Park

The unique quartzite pillars, some rising up to 300 meters, inspired the creators of “Avatar” in designing the landscapes of Pandora. The park consists of several zones, so plan for a minimum of two days to explore.

Entrance tickets are priced at 225 yuan during the high season and 115 yuan during the low season (valid for four days). The Bailong elevator costs 65 yuan one way. The glass bridge on Tianmen Mountain requires advance booking and costs an additional 278 yuan.

“Heaven’s Gate,” a natural arch standing 131 meters high, is accessible via a 7.5 km cable car. The ascent takes approximately 30 minutes and offers breathtaking views.

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Guilin and Yangshuo — Scenic Gem

The Guilin-Yangshuo region is considered the epitome of Chinese landscapes, with karst mountains reflected in the emerald waters of the Li River, which even grace the national currency. Traditional cormorant fishing and ancient river villages evoke the classical China celebrated by poets.

Li River Cruise

The Guilin-Yangshuo route is renowned for being one of China’s most photographed landscapes, with karst mountains mirrored in the emerald waters adorning the 20-yuan banknote.

A four-hour cruise costs 215 yuan and includes lunch. The best seats are on the upper deck, on the right side in the direction of travel. Traditional cormorant fishing occurs in the early morning and late evening.

In Yangshuo, you can rent a bicycle for 30 yuan per day to explore the surrounding villages. The evening show “Impression Liu Sanjie” takes place right on the river, with tickets starting at 238 yuan.

Shanghai — Window to Modern China

Shanghai embodies the ambitions of modern China, where futuristic skyscrapers stand alongside colonial architecture, and traditional gardens hide in the shadows of glass towers. This city is the financial capital and a symbol of the economic miracle that transformed rice fields into a world-class metropolis within a few decades.

Architectural Contrasts

The Bund waterfront showcases the city’s colonial past, with 1920s-30s buildings contrasting sharply against the futuristic Pudong skyscrapers on the opposite bank.

The observation deck of Shanghai Tower (632m) is open until 10 PM, with tickets priced at 258 yuan, which includes transport, museums, and films. The high-speed elevator reaches the 118th floor in just 55 seconds. The city is particularly beautiful at night, thanks to the lighting of the skyscrapers.

Traditional Attractions

Yu Garden, dating back to the 16th century, is a prime example of classical Chinese garden art. Entrance tickets are 40 yuan during the high season and 30 yuan during the low season. Here, you can also sample the famous Shanghai xiaolongbao (soup dumplings).

The French Concession retains its European charm with plane trees, mansions, and cozy cafes, making it the best area for evening walks and experiencing modern Chinese culture.

Gansu — Silk Road and Deserts

Gansu Province is at the heart of the ancient Silk Road, home to the unique Mogao Buddhist caves adorned with millennium-old frescoes.

Dunhuang and Mogao Caves

The 492 Buddhist temples carved into the cliffs feature unique frescoes created over a span of 1,000 years. A ticket costing 238 yuan allows you to visit eight caves with a guide. Additional caves may cost between 150 and 300 yuan each.

Photography is prohibited inside the caves to protect the frescoes. The two-hour visit begins with educational films in a digital center, followed by a bus ride to the caves.

Zhangye Danxia Rainbow Mountains

This geological park showcases multicolored rock layers formed over 24 million years. Tickets are priced at 75 yuan, and a bus ride around the park costs an additional 20 yuan. The best times for photography are at sunrise and sunset when the colors are most vibrant.

Four viewing platforms offer various perspectives, with Platform #4 considered the best for panoramic shots. On clear days, visibility can reach up to 20 kilometers.

Yunnan — Nature and Cultural Diversity

Yunnan is known as the “kingdom of plants and animals,” hosting half of China’s flora and fauna species, while 25 ethnic minorities preserve their unique traditions.

Yuanyang Rice Terraces

Developed over 1,300 years by the Hani people, these terraces are inscribed on the UNESCO list. In winter and spring, the terraces fill with water, creating stunning mirror reflections of clouds and mountains.

The best photography spots are during sunrises in Duoyishu (from 6:30 to 7:30) and sunsets in Laohuzui (from 17:30 to 18:30). An entrance ticket costs 100 yuan and is valid for the day. Accommodation in Yuanyang village starts at 150 yuan per night.

Dali and Erhai Lake

The ancient city of Dali showcases Bai architecture, characterized by white walls and black roofs. Erhai Lake, covering 250 square kilometers and surrounded by the Cangshan Mountains, is considered one of China’s most beautiful lakes.

A bicycle ride around the lake (120 km) takes a full day. Bicycle rentals cost 30 yuan, while electric bikes are 60 yuan. The Three Pagodas, the symbol of Dali, can be seen from a distance of 10 km.

Huangshan Mountains — Anhui

The “Yellow Mountains” have inspired the creation of over 20,000 Chinese poems and paintings. The four wonders of the area—peculiar pines, strange rocks, a sea of clouds, and hot springs—make it a unique destination.

A cable car ride costs 90 yuan and reaches the summit in 10 minutes (a hike would take 3-4 hours). Accommodation in mountain hotels starts at 400 yuan, allowing guests to witness breathtaking sunrises over the sea of clouds. The ancient villages of Xidi and Hongcun, located at the mountain’s base, are also UNESCO-listed.

Hong Kong — Special Administrative Region

This vertical city of skyscrapers is built on islands, where ancient temples sit next to luxury shopping centers, and traditional junks sail alongside modern ferries in one of the world’s most beautiful harbors.

City Panoramas

Victoria Peak (552m) offers the best views of Victoria Harbor and the city’s skyscrapers. The historic Peak Tram, in operation since 1888, reaches the peak in 10 minutes, with a round-trip ticket costing 99 Hong Kong dollars.

The nightly “Symphony of Lights” laser show at 8 PM features the lighting of 40 buildings. The best viewing point is from the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront in Kowloon. The show lasts 10 minutes and is recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the largest light show.

Entertainment and Culture

Ocean Park combines thrilling attractions with one of Asia’s best aquariums. Tickets are priced at 580 Hong Kong dollars for adults and 290 for children. The Ngong Ping cable car leads to the 34-meter Big Buddha on Lantau Island.

The Star Ferry service has been crossing the harbor since 1888, with tickets priced at only 3.4 Hong Kong dollars, making the stunning water views well worth the cost. The markets in Mongkok remain open late into the night, offering authentic street food.

China for Tourists: Practical Food Advice

Chinese cuisine varies significantly by region: Beijing is famous for its duck and noodles, Sichuan for its spicy specialties, and Cantonese cuisine is known for fresh seafood. Always communicate your spice preferences in restaurants, as Chinese standards often exceed European levels.

Picture menus can be a lifesaver for those who don’t speak Chinese. Street food is safe at well-trafficked locations, but avoid raw vegetables and fruits that cannot be peeled.

Tea culture is an integral part of the Chinese experience. In tea houses, you can spend hours enjoying the ceremony and conversation. Green tea is typically served for free almost everywhere.

Accommodation and Booking in China

Trip.com is the primary booking platform in China, offering the best prices and a wide selection. International sites may show a limited list of hotels.

Price ranges:

• Hostels: 80-150 yuan per night.
• Medium hotels: 200-500 yuan.
• Luxury hotels: from 800 yuan.
• Prices in Beijing and Shanghai are typically 30-50% higher.

Note that mandatory registration at accommodations is required; hotels will handle this automatically.

Independent Travel to China: Ready 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1-2: Beijing

• Great Wall of China (Mutianyu).
• Forbidden City.
• Temple of Heaven.

Day 3: Beijing → Xi’an (high-speed train, 4.5 hours)

• Terracotta Army.

Day 4: Xi’an → Chengdu (train, 3 hours)

• Panda base.
• Sichuan cuisine.

Day 5: Jiuzhaigou (bus from Chengdu, 8 hours)

• Colored lakes and waterfalls.

Day 6-7: Chengdu → Shanghai (flight, 2.5 hours)

• Bund waterfront.
• Yu Garden.
• Skyscraper observation deck.

Expert Review on China Travel

China is a country of contrasts, where you can experience the 2,000-year-old Terracotta Army one day and futuristic Shanghai skyscrapers the next. The key advice is not to underestimate the country’s size; ensure you allocate sufficient time for each region. The Great Wall of China is truly impressive, but it presents a physical challenge, especially at the steep Mutianyu section.

High-speed trains offer a unique pleasure, providing airplane-level comfort on the ground. Remember to download a translator app in advance and carry plenty of cash, as card acceptance is limited, especially in smaller cities.

When it comes to food, be prepared for “non-spicy” dishes to still be fiery by European standards. I once requested children’s food in Sichuan, and it was still spicy. However, visiting the pandas in Chengdu makes all gastronomic trials worthwhile—it’s an unforgettable experience.

Safety is very high, allowing for calm nighttime walks even in large cities. The only concern is the constant camera surveillance, which you quickly acclimate to. Overall, China is well worth the time and money spent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa for China?

Yes, a tourist L-type visa is mandatory for most regions. A single-entry visa costs about 60-80 dollars. There are a few visa-free exceptions:

• Hainan Island: 30 days upon arrival in Haikou or Sanya.
• Group tours: up to 15 days for groups of 5-50 people.
• Transit zones: 72-144 hours depending on the city.
• Hong Kong and Macau: up to 14 and 30 days, respectively.

Processing takes 1-2 months through visa centers or consulates and requires a passport valid for at least six months.

What currency should I bring to China?

Bring US dollars or euros, which can be easily exchanged at banks and exchange offices. The best rates are typically found at banks (not at the airport). The exchange process may take up to an hour due to paperwork.

Bank cards work primarily with UnionPay in major stores. Cash withdrawal commissions vary by bank.

How do I use the internet and social media?

China blocks Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and YouTube due to the “Great Chinese Firewall.” Here are some solutions:

• eSIM cards: The simplest option, costing about 15 dollars for 1GB valid for 7 days. This gives access to all blocked services without needing a VPN.
• VPN services: Necessary if you plan to buy a Chinese SIM card. Popular options include NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark. Make sure to install these before your trip, as their websites are also blocked in China.
• Roaming: Although expensive, it allows access to all services without restrictions.

Is it safe to travel around China?

China is one of the safest countries for tourists, with an extremely low crime rate attributed to a comprehensive video surveillance system and strict laws. Police do not carry weapons, reinforcing the safety level.

You can walk calmly at night and leave belongings in cafes. While fraud is rare, exercise caution when bargaining in markets.

How much does food cost in China?

• Street food: 10-20 yuan per serving.
• Local cafes: 25-50 yuan for lunch.
• Mid-range restaurants: 60-100 yuan per person.
• High-end establishments: from 200 yuan.

Food can be very spicy, particularly in Sichuan. Always communicate your spice preferences. Picture menus can help overcome language barriers.

Can I drink tap water?

No, it is advised to drink only bottled water. A 1.5-liter bottle typically costs between 2-5 yuan. Hotels usually provide kettles, as Chinese people typically drink only boiled water.

Do I need a translator or guide?

Few people speak English, especially outside tourist areas. Download Google Translate with offline functionality or another translator app. Learning basic phrases like “nihao” (hello) and “xiexie” (thank you) can be helpful.

Popular attractions often provide audio guides in English for 40-50 yuan.

What about tipping in China?

Tipping is not customary and can even be considered offensive. Restaurant staff do not expect extra money as it is not part of the culture. The only exception is in expensive international hotels, where you can leave 10-20 yuan for housekeeping.

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