
Explore China
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China stands as a captivating mosaic of cultural treasures, natural wonders, and technological advancement that spans more than 9.6 million square kilometers. This ancient civilization, with its roots reaching back 5,000 years, presents travelers with an unparalleled opportunity to witness how imperial dynasties, philosophical traditions, and artistic achievements have shaped one of humanity's most enduring cultures. From the mist-shrouded karst mountains of Guilin to the neon-lit skyline of Shanghai, China offers experiences that range from profoundly traditional to startlingly futuristic.
The Middle Kingdom rewards curious travelers with extraordinary diversity in its landscapes, cuisines, and local customs across its 23 provinces. Whether you're walking the ancient stones of the Forbidden City, cruising the picturesque Li River, sampling regional specialties from fiery Sichuan pepper dishes to delicate Cantonese dim sum, or engaging with local communities in remote villages, China consistently delivers moments of wonder. Despite its rapid modernization, with bullet trains connecting ultramodern cities, China maintains deep connections to its cultural heritage through traditional arts, seasonal festivals, and everyday practices that continue to define life across this fascinating nation.
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Eastern China
- The Bund waterfront promenade
- Yu Garden (Yuyuan)
- Shanghai Tower observation deck
Shanghai epitomizes China's dramatic transformation, where colonial-era buildings along the Bund face the futuristic Pudong skyline across the Huangpu River. This cosmopolitan metropolis blends East and West through its architecture, cuisine, and culture. Visitors can experience both old Shanghai in the narrow lanes of the Former French Concession and cutting-edge China in its world-class museums, luxury shopping districts, and innovative dining scene that ranges from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants.
Hunan Province, Central China
- Avatar Hallelujah Mountain
- Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve
- Glass Bridge (Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon)
The otherworldly landscape of Zhangjiajie features thousands of quartzite sandstone columns rising dramatically from lush forests, creating a scene that inspired the floating mountains in the film 'Avatar'. Visitors can explore this UNESCO World Heritage site via an extensive network of hiking trails, cable cars, and the world's highest glass-bottomed bridge spanning the Grand Canyon. The area's misty microclimate adds a mystical quality to the already surreal scenery, making it one of China's most photographed natural wonders.
Sichuan Province, Southwestern China
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
- Jinli Ancient Street
- Wenshu Monastery
Chengdu combines laid-back teahouse culture with the irresistible appeal of its most famous residents—giant pandas. The city serves as the gateway to Sichuan's renowned spicy cuisine and traditional culture. Beyond panda encounters, visitors enjoy the city's well-preserved historical districts, vibrant food scene featuring the numbing-spicy mala flavor profile, and easy access to sacred Buddhist mountains. Chengdu's relaxed pace and welcoming atmosphere make it a favorite among travelers seeking an authentic yet accessible Chinese city experience.
Yunnan Province, Southwestern China
- Dayan Ancient Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Black Dragon Pool
- Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Lijiang's UNESCO-protected old town showcases the distinctive architecture and culture of the Naxi ethnic minority against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Its ingenious ancient water system still functions, channeling mountain streams through the cobblestone streets and courtyards of traditional wooden buildings. The town comes alive at night with red lanterns illuminating centuries-old bridges and waterways. Beyond the old town, visitors can explore nearby villages, trek through Tiger Leaping Gorge, or venture to Shangri-La to experience Tibetan culture.
Shaanxi Province, Central China
- Terracotta Army
- Ancient City Wall
- Muslim Quarter food street
As the eastern terminus of the ancient Silk Road and capital of 13 dynasties, Xi'an represents China's imperial past like few other cities. The discovery of Emperor Qin Shi Huang's Terracotta Army—thousands of life-sized clay soldiers—stands as one of archaeology's greatest finds. Beyond this marvel, visitors can cycle atop the world's most complete ancient city wall, explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter where Chinese and Middle Eastern influences blend, and visit the Wild Goose Pagoda, a Tang Dynasty structure housing Buddhist sutras brought from India.
Guidelines for Cultural Awareness
- Respect 'face' culture by avoiding public criticism or confrontation, as maintaining dignity and reputation is extremely important in Chinese social interactions.
- Learn basic chopstick etiquette: never stick chopsticks vertically in rice (resembles funeral incense), tap them on bowls (considered begging), or use them to point at people.
- Gift-giving follows specific customs—avoid clocks (symbolize death), white flowers (associated with funerals), or gifts in sets of four (sounds like 'death' in Chinese). Red and gold are auspicious colors.
- Remove shoes when entering someone's home, and if invited to dinner, leave a small amount of food on your plate to indicate you've had enough (a clean plate suggests you weren't fed sufficiently).
- Understand that personal space expectations differ—crowding in public spaces is normal, and Chinese people may ask direct questions about age, income, or marital status out of friendly interest rather than rudeness.
Suggestions for Evening Activities
- Experience an authentic kung fu performance at the Red Theatre in Beijing, where martial arts masters demonstrate ancient fighting techniques through spectacular choreography.
- Cruise along the Huangpu River in Shanghai at night to witness the contrasting illuminated skylines of historic Bund and futuristic Pudong.
- Explore Shichahai Bar Street in Beijing, where traditional hutongs (narrow alleys) house trendy bars and live music venues around the scenic Houhai Lake.
- Attend a Sichuan Opera performance in Chengdu, featuring the famous 'face-changing' art where performers instantly switch colorful masks, along with fire-breathing and shadow puppetry.
- Visit the Xintiandi district in Shanghai for upscale nightlife in renovated traditional shikumen houses, offering everything from jazz clubs to cocktail lounges with innovative mixology.
Customer Feedback
Sophie Dubois
Hiking the unrestored 'Wild Wall' section at Jiankou was the highlight of my China trip. Our guide took us at sunrise when the ancient stones were bathed in golden light with no other tourists in sight. The contrast of crumbling watchtowers against the rugged mountains gave me a profound sense of history that the renovated sections simply can't match.
Journeyed from France
Miguel Hernandez
The Terracotta Warriors exceeded my expectations with their scale and craftsmanship. However, I wish I'd known to hire a private guide—the site lacks detailed English explanations, and I missed many fascinating details until overhearing another group's guide. Still, standing face-to-face with these ancient guardians was an unforgettable experience.
Journeyed from Mexico
Akira Tanaka
Zhangjiajie's landscape feels like stepping into another world. The Bailong Elevator—the world's tallest outdoor elevator—carried us up through mist-covered peaks that emerged like islands in the clouds. Despite the crowds at main viewpoints, there were plenty of quieter trails where we could appreciate the surreal beauty in peace.
Journeyed from Japan
Emma Wilson
While the pandas at Chengdu Research Base were adorable, the experience felt rushed and overcrowded. Visit first thing in morning (7:30am) when pandas are most active and crowds are thinner. The nearby Dujiangyan Panda Base offers a more intimate experience with advance booking, which I wish I'd known beforehand.
Journeyed from Australia
Lars Johansson
Taking a three-day cruise down the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo was the perfect way to experience the karst landscape that appears on the 20 yuan note. The morning mist rising between limestone peaks while local fishermen worked with their cormorants created scenes straight from a traditional Chinese painting. Don't miss cycling through the countryside around Yangshuo afterward.
Journeyed from Sweden