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Discover China
Use the map to explore China’s regions and start with some of our top tips for travelling to China.
China Quick Guide
- Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY), also called Renminbi (RMB)
- Language: Mandarin Chinese (Putonghua)
- Emergency Number: 110 (police), 120 (ambulance), 119 (fire)
- Tipping: Not customary, though appreciated in tourist-heavy areas or upscale hotels
- Fun Fact #1: China is home to the world’s longest wall—the Great Wall stretches over 21,000 km
- Fun Fact #2: The Chinese New Year celebration lasts 15 days and ends with the Lantern Festival
- Fun Fact #3: There are 55 officially recognized ethnic minorities in addition to the Han majority
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Where to Stay in China
Accommodation options in China range from luxury international hotels and boutique courtyard stays to budget hostels and traditional guesthouses. Beijing and Shanghai offer modern high-rises and heritage inns, while places like Lijiang, Xi’an, and Guilin feature atmospheric stays near historic sites or natural beauty.
Start by planning out where you would like to visit and then search for accommodation in those areas. We use Booking.com for all our hotel stays, many hotels have pay later offers and you can build up your Genius level to get discounts on your stays.
Plan Where to Stay
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How to Get Around China
China has a vast and efficient transport network, especially in major cities and popular regions. High-speed trains (Gaotie) connect cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, and Chengdu with comfort and speed. Domestic flights are ideal for longer distances, while intercity buses serve more remote areas.
Within cities, metros are modern, affordable, and well-signposted. Taxis are common but may require translation apps or addresses in Chinese characters; ride-hailing apps like DiDi are widely used. Long-distance sleeper trains offer a budget-friendly alternative to flights.
In rural or mountainous regions, travel can be slower, and private drivers or tours are often best. Biking is popular in cities like Hangzhou and Chengdu, and shared bikes are readily available. Always carry your passport for ticket purchases and hotel check-ins, and prepare for language barriers outside major cities.
Discover China’s History
Must-Visit Places in China
- Beijing – Historic capital with the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and Summer Palace
- Shanghai – Futuristic skyline, colonial Bund, and vibrant arts and food scenes
- Xi’an – Ancient Silk Road city home to the Terracotta Warriors and city walls
- Guilin & Yangshuo – Iconic karst mountain landscapes and Li River cruises
- Chengdu – Panda sanctuaries and spicy Sichuan cuisine
- Zhangjiajie – Sandstone pillars that inspired Avatar, best seen by glass bridges or cable cars
- Lijiang & Dali – Old towns in Yunnan with traditional architecture and diverse cultures
Stay Connected
Don’t waste time hunting for SIM cards or stressing about roaming. With an eSIM, you can get connected as soon as you land and stay online wherever your adventures take you.
🔗 Check out our guide to the cheapest eSIMs for international travel.
Chinese Food to Try
China’s regional cuisines are incredibly diverse, with bold flavors, street snacks, and centuries-old traditions:
- Peking Duck – Beijing: Crispy roasted duck served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce
- Xiao Long Bao – Shanghai: Soup-filled dumplings steamed in bamboo baskets
- Hot Pot – Chongqing/Sichuan: Cook meats and vegetables in spicy bubbling broth at the table
- Mapo Tofu – Sichuan: Spicy tofu dish with minced pork and Sichuan peppercorns
- Biang Biang Noodles – Shaanxi: Wide hand-pulled noodles served with chili oil and garlic
- Dim Sum – Guangdong: Steamed dumplings, buns, and small plates served with tea
- Mooncakes – Nationwide (especially during Mid-Autumn Festival): Dense pastries filled with lotus seed paste or red bean
Top 5 Things To Bring On Every Trip
- Travel Insurance: Protect yourself against unforeseen events like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.
- Power Bank: Keep your devices charged on the go, ensuring you stay connected and capture every moment.
- Universal Travel Adapter: A must-have for international travelers to plug in and power up devices in different countries.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while reducing plastic waste; many destinations have refill stations available.
- Packing Cubes: Organize your luggage efficiently, making it easier to find items and maximize space.
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