Elizabeth Steiner

Elizabeth Steiner – My First Dawn in China in 2008 My introduction to China happened by chance. After being let go from a publishing house in Munich, I bought a one-way ticket to Beijing, with only small savings and a phrasebook. During my first week, I stayed in a hostel where I met an elderly Chinese woman named Lin. She invited me to stay in her home, and it was there that I discovered the real China – the familial one, with its rituals and unwritten rules. I remember my first dawn on the Great Wall of China – I got there with a group of local enthusiasts, and that's when I felt this land had become part of my soul. Instead of the planned two weeks, I stayed for a year. I learned the language working as a translator for tourists, and later as a guide. Every penny I earned went into traveling around the country. For 17 years now, I've worked as a China expert. I currently live in Xi'an, and my second base is an estate in the Huangshan mountains, where I host travelers who want to experience the authentic China. Over these years, I've created a library of unique routes, written the book "Beyond the Wall: Unknown China Through European Eyes," and help travelers discover the country I fell in love with many years ago.

China

The local currency of China

The local time in China

China with Kids

Traveling to China with kids can be an incredible experience that is full of cultural wonders, breathtaking landscapes, and exciting attractions for the whole family. This expert guide is here to help you plan the perfect family trip to China. It covers everything from what to see, where to go, what to eat, parks and attractions for kids, the best time to visit, a suggested 14-day travel itinerary, and essential tips for tourists.

Table of Contents

What to See in China

The Great Wall of China (Mutianyu): One of the world’s most iconic landmarks, the Great Wall offers convenient options for families, such as chair lifts and cable cars at Mutianyu.
Terracotta Army in Xi’an: A mesmerizing archaeological site that features thousands of life-size terracotta warriors, built to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor.

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Forbidden City in Beijing: A must-visit site in the Chinese capital, this vast complex includes hundreds of historical buildings and stunning gardens.
Giant Buddha in Leshan: Carved into a red cliff, this is the world’s largest Buddha statue. It is perfect for a visit with kids due to its impressive size and fascinating history.

Where to Go

Beijing: The historic capital city is brimming with cultural treasures, including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Summer Palace.
Xi’an: An ancient city that served as the capital of several Chinese dynasties and was the starting point of the Silk Road.
Chengdu: Home to giant pandas and a hub for panda research and breeding. Additionally, the local traditional market offers a unique shopping experience.
Shanghai: The most modern and cosmopolitan city in China. Recommended places to visit include The Bund and Shanghai Disneyland.

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What to Eat

Dim Sum: A variety of small, flavorful dishes served in small portions, perfect for sampling a range of Chinese flavors.
Hot Pot in Sichuan: A unique culinary experience where you cook your food directly at the table in a spicy and savory broth.
Tanghulu Candied Fruits: A popular street snack in Beijing made from sugar-coated hawthorn berries on skewers.

Parks and Attractions for Kids

Shanghai Disneyland: The largest amusement park in China offers a variety of roller coasters, shows, and attractions for the whole family.
Chengdu Panda Base: A perfect place for kids to learn about pandas and observe them up close in a natural environment.
Old Town of Yangshuo: A picturesque town offering outdoor activities like biking and bamboo rafting along the Li River.

Since 2015, our website has specialized in individual planning of unique routes, taking into account personal preferences and desires.

Each of you will receive a unique PDF file from us, which contains everything you need: travel routes, car rentals, hotels, the best tourist attractions, attractions for kids and everything you need for a perfect vacation.

During the trip, we are available for you by phone via WhatsApp.

Our personal service provides information from A to Z, taking into account many small details that can become a decisive factor on the way from a wasted trip to an unforgettable vacation.

Our service will make your trip comfortable, save a lot of time on planning and preparation, and most importantly – will allow you to become freer and fully enjoy the pleasure of the trip.

When to Go

The best time to visit China is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and attractions are less crowded.

Approximate Travel Plan for 14 Days

Days 1-3: Beijing

Day 1: Visit the Temple of Heaven and Olympic Park.
Day 2: Explore the Great Wall (Mutianyu) and visit the Temple of Heaven.
Day 3: Visit the Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square, and Forbidden City.

Days 4-5: Xi’an

Day 4: Take an overnight train from Beijing to Xi’an and explore the city.
Day 5: Visit the Terracotta Army and explore the local market.

Days 6-7: Chengdu

Day 6: Visit the Giant Panda Research Base and explore the local market.
Day 7: Take an excursion to the Giant Buddha in Leshan.

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Days 8-10: Shanghai

Day 8: Explore The Bund and visit the Shanghai Museum.
Day 9: Spend a day at Shanghai Disneyland.
Day 10: Explore the city streets and dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Days 11-13: Yangshuo

Day 11: Take a train journey from Shanghai to Guilin and transfer to Yangshuo.
Day 12: Hike up Moon Hill and enjoy a bamboo rafting trip along the Li River.
Day 13: Relax and enjoy the rural scenery.

Day 14: Return to Hong Kong and take a flight to London.

Tips for Tourists

Book train tickets and domestic flights in advance to avoid crowds and traffic jams.
Your kids may not enjoy all the local cuisine, so it’s advisable to bring some familiar snacks from home.
A local guide can make navigating easier and provide insights into local culture and history.
Ensure you have a mobile phone with a local SIM card or active roaming service to stay in touch with family back home.
Download apps like Google Translate and WeChat for communication and local information.

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A family vacation in China with kids is a special and rewarding experience. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can enjoy an unforgettable family adventure in this captivating country.

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Emma Heidi

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