Where to go on your first trip to China

China is an incredibly vast and diverse country: there you’ll stumble into futuristic cities straight out of a sci-fi movie, before falling for the charms of rural towns reminiscent of ancient times. The Middle Kingdom (“Zhongguo”, as the country is called in Chinese) has something for every traveler, from remarkable cities to hidden spots teeming with cultural and historical fascination. With so much to see and do, deciding where to go can certainly be overwhelming. But worry not: if you’re thinking about planning your first trip to China, you’re in safe hands with this insightful guide. We won’t just show you where to go, but also how to make the most of your first trip with expert tips and things to know before you go.

Best cities to visit on your first trip to China

If you’re looking to surround yourself with the excitement and effervescence of big cities, these are the best places to visit in China for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

Hangzhou

Spend a day or two exploring beautiful Hangzhou. It’s a city unlike many others, as it’s dotted with majestic gardens, a pretty lake, romantic pavilions, arched bridges, and ancient temples. There are many fascinating sites to visit, a rich Chinese culture, and diverse foods to try.

Start by visiting a few traditional sites showcasing ancient Chinese architecture, including the Lingyin Buddhist Temple, Former Residence of Hu Xueyan, and Leifeng Pagoda. Hefang Street is a perfect example of the city’s long history, where you’ll be exposed to so much vibrant culture, from shops to restaurants and teahouses.

Hong Kong

Visit Hong Kong if you want a more modern city experience, but with the bells and whistles of traditional and historical cultures. From breathtaking cityscapes and otherworldly theme parks to traditional markets and ancient temples, Hong Kong has it all.

Hong Kong Disneyland is a must for families or anyone looking to relive the spirit of their childhood. For a more authentically local experience grounded in a different kind of spirituality, visit the Tian Tan Buddha monument or Nan Lian Garden.

If you want a spectacular view of the city skyline at night, head to Victoria Harbor where the panoramic views are sure to stun and surprise you. The Ngong Ping 360 cable car offers a more thrilling vantage point, as you ride for 25 minutes across the sky to a ‘village’ filled with restaurants and shops.

Chengdu

Chengdu should be on the China bucket list for anyone who enjoys indulging in unique cuisine and exploring diverse cultures. The city brims with both modern and historical charms, and is known for its laid-back lifestyle and (perhaps most importantly) its playful giant pandas.

To see those cute, fluffy pandas up close, head to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Elsewhere, the Wenshu Yuan Monastery is a Buddhist landmark with a serene garden and teahouse, Anshun Bridge is a scenic spot for keen photographers, and the Qingcheng Shan mountain peak offers outdoor types some tranquil respite from the city.

Chongqing

Chongqing’s city center is the definition of futuristic, cut straight from a sci-fi movie. This urban phenomenon was built on impossibly steep mountainsides and valleys along the banks of the Yangtze River, giving it a distinct landscape. It’s also surrounded by gorgeous natural beauty and has pockets of ancient gems dotted throughout.

Jiefangbei Square offers some of the best utopian night-time cityscapes with bright neon lights, buzzing restaurants, and shopping. Meanwhile, history buffs can tour the Three Gorges Museum or visit a district that’s beautifully frozen in time, the Ciqikou Ancient Town.

For cultural immersion, explore the Dazu Rock Carvings, known for their displays of Buddhist art and engravings. For more outdoor experiences, Hongya Cave is another spectacular site you must see, especially at night.

Best places to visit in China for foodies

There are plenty of reasons why Chinese cuisine always ranks high among food critics. For your first foodie trip through China, the following places will take you on a sensory journey like no other.

Guangzhou

Once the capital of the ancient Nanyue Kingdom, Guangzhou is steeped in history but also offers a unique blend of cultural attractions, modern experiences, and a vibrant culinary offerings.

The city is famous for its delicious Cantonese cuisine, dim sum restaurants, and tea culture. For a traditional dim sum experience, visit the classic Guangzhou Restaurant. Dim Dou Dak, Hongtu Hall at the White Swan Hotel, and Panxi Restaurant are also excellent choices for dim sum and other authentic Cantonese dishes.

Afterward, discover the smaller family-run eateries tucked away in quiet alleyways or bustling neighborhoods, such as Yuexiu Park or the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall. Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street is a bustling lane that transforms into a night market with local vendors selling fried rice rolls, shrimp dumplings, and stinky tofu.

Beijing

Beijing is China’s sprawling capital, brimming with stunning architecture, unique historical sites, and delicious food. With a 3,000-year history, one can only imagine all the flavors and cooking techniques developed here over time. Which is why Beijing’s diverse culinary scene is such a big draw among travelers.

Peking duck is one of the first dishes you should try in the city, and one of the best takes can be savored at Siji Minfu Restaurant in Dengshikou. For more memorable Peking duck experiences, try Wan Li at the Renaissance Beijing Wangfujing Hotel, Duck de Chine, and the Quanjude Roast Duck at Wangfujing.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a dynamic city with a bustling atmosphere, lively shopping streets, an electric nightlife, and iconic skyscrapers. These include the Shanghai Tower, The Bund, and Oriental Pearl Tower.

Besides the incredible landmarks, Shanghai is a powerhouse for culinary experiences. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hearty street food, keen culinary enthusiasts can expect to find nearly everything their heart might desire. Definitely try the famous Shanghai soup dumplings, xiao long bao, alongside green onion noodles and fried dumplings.

For authentic Hu cuisine visit Wujiang Road, known for its pan-fried buns, and Jin Xuan Chinese Restaurant, loved by locals for its traditional Chinese dishes. Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet is a go-to spot for a refined and avant-garde dining experience combining technology and haute cuisine.

Best coastal cities to visit in China

Craving a peaceful seaside escape or city skylines complete with sea views? You can’t go wrong with these destinations.

Qingdao

Sitting on China’s Yellow Sea coast in the eastern Shandong province, Qingdao is a seaside city filled with skyscrapers, lovely parks, and beaches. The cityscape lights up gorgeously at night, reflecting on the adjacent water.

Qingdao is one of the few places in China to visit that is known for its German-influenced architecture, particularly in the Badaguan Scenic Area. Visit the Tsingtao Brewery Museum to taste the city’s iconic beer, before taking in the stunning coastal views from Shilaoren Bathing Beach. The majestic Laoshan Mountain offers unmissable hiking trails to viewpoints where you can catch the sunrise or sunset.

Sanya

Sanya is a slice of coastal heaven, situated along the southern Hainan Island. The city is peppered with upscale hotels, oceanfront resorts, and some of the best beaches in China. It’s a fun family destination as well as an excellent place for couples or friends to visit together.

Thanks to its tropical climate, you can spend days soaking up the sun and waves with snorkeling, volleyball, surfing, and other beach activities. Visit Yalong Bay for pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters, or Haitang Bay for a more secluded and upscale ambience complete with luxury resorts. Then, unwind at the Sanya Zhujiang Nantian Spa where hot springs and luxurious treatments are on hand to help you relax and reset your batteries.

Best attractions to visit in China

China’s array of attractions is virtually endless, and first-timers can’t go wrong by starting with these historical highlights – iconic landmarks that have stood the test of time. They top the itineraries of many a traveler, so careful planning with our experienced local agents will help you make the most of your visit – in order to dodge the crowds and enjoy the best possible sightseeing conditions.

Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is an imperial palace complex in the heart of Beijing. It beautifully showcases traditional Chinese palatial architecture, radiating opulence that draws so many. Beyond its appearance, it holds a significant place in history as it was once the residence of 24 Ming and Qing Dynasty Emperors.

It reminds onlookers of China’s colorful past, as it was built between 1406 and 1420 during the Ming Dynasty. It’s currently run by the Palace Museum and is open daily between 8.30am and 4.30pm.

The Great Wall of China

Ah, the Great Wall of China, an unmissable force in the world of renowned attractions. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the Huairou District, amid a picturesque setting of lush valleys and dramatic mountains.

Construction spanned over 2,000 years from China’s Spring and Autumn period (770-476 BCE) to the end of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). The wall was a military defense system featuring watchtowers, army fortresses, command posts, and beacon towers.

While it takes 18 months to walk the entire wall, the Mutianyu and Badaling sections are ideal for a first-time visit; these take about one to two hours to walk, especially if you’re traveling from Beijing. Our 12-day hiking tour of the Great Wall can give you a better idea of what to expect, so ask for more details when you reach out to our local experts.

Terracotta Warriors in X’ian

The Terracotta Army is a vast collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China. Imagine the uncanny eeriness of witnessing thousands of clay soldiers guarding Qin Shi Huang’s tomb; the attention to detail of each sculpture will shock you, and there are other artworks to admire, including bronze chariots and horses.

In total, the mausoleum has 9,000 soldiers, 130 chariots, 520 horses, and 150 cavalry entirely made of baked clay or terracotta. You can visit the terracotta warriors in the Lintong District, Xi’an, every day between 8.30am and 5pm.

Best countryside destinations in China

Go off the beaten track in China, allowing you to experience a more hidden and authentic side. These are our top picks for first-time travelers.

Guilin

Guilin is a southern city to escape to if you want a truly unique experience. It has landscapes so otherworldly and mesmerizing that you might feel like you’ve left planet Earth. Limestone mountains, caves, rivers, lakes, and lakeshore pagodas set the scene amidst an ethereal atmosphere.

Check out the limestone formations that are said to resemble animals in the Reed Flute Cave. Elsewhere, Elephant Trunk Hill is another wonderful formation, resembling an elephant drinking water from the Li River with its long trunk.

Take a hike up Fubo Mountain, known for its scenic summit vistas, or wander the mysterious stone-paved streets of Daxu Ancient Town on Maozhou Island, dotted with small shops selling Chinese antiques.

Pingyao

Is Pingyao worth visiting? Here’s one question that rarely needs asking, as it’s widely agreed that this is one of those places anyone must tick off their list when visiting China for the first time. Pingyao is a walled city in central Shanxi, known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture.

This quaint ancient town lets you enjoy a traditional Han Chinese experience with 14th-century buildings, including the first bank in China. Explore Pingyao’s alleyways lined with glowing red lanterns, temples, and stalls, and make sure to stop by the Pingyao Confucian, Zhenguo, and Shuanglin Temples.

Pingyao is accessible from Beijing by high-speed train in about four hours, making it the ideal getaway from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Yangshuo

Last up is a county and resort town in southern China’s Guangxi region that is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With dramatic karst mountains and the Li River as its backdrop, Yangshuo is the place to go if you wish to feel enveloped by a scenic and surreal natural landscape.

It’s unlike other places in China thanks to its ancient villages, caves, towering limestone peaks, and serene river views. Embark on a cruise or try bamboo rafting down the Li River; if you’d rather keep your feet on dry ground, you could try your hand at rock climbing or enjoy a scenic hike. There are numerous trails, many of which are bike-friendly and dotted with observation decks.

Things to know before going to China

Equip yourself with these essential tips and you’ll be on your way to visiting China with confidence.

Public transport and getting around

A high-speed train is generally the best way to get around for first-timers: they are fast, comfortable, reliable, modern, and cost-effective. Traveling by train is also advisable for long-distance travel between cities like Beijing and Shanghai, or for exploring remote areas.

Health and safety

As in any country you travel to, be vigilant against petty theft and pickpocketing, especially in tourist areas and train stations. As well, be cautious when using traditional Chinese medicine, as some products and practices may pose risks if you’re not well-informed. It’s best to consult with your doctor first.

Language barriers

Learn to speak a few words of Chinese (Mandarin) before you go: having a good grasp of the basics will get you far, especially in more rural areas where most of the population can’t speak English. These include “hello” (你好/nǐ hǎo), “thank you” (谢谢/xiè xie), “excuse me” (对不起/duì bù qǐ), “sorry” (不好意思/bù hǎo yì si), and “please” (请/qǐng).

Cultural norms and customs

• In Chinese culture, respect for elders, family, and hierarchy is huge, emphasizing harmony and social order. It’s good to be mindful of these as you go about your day and interact with local people on your trip.
• Unlike in Western countries, Chinese people avoid physical contact, such as hugging or kissing, as it’s seen as inappropriate.
• Be sure to dress modestly, especially in traditional, rural areas and religious sites like temples.
• Being on time is considered essential, and when greeting someone, always start with the oldest person first. A slight bow or nod will do — handshakes aren’t too common.

Cash and tipping

Tipping is not customary in China, and insisting on leaving one could be interpreted as rude and embarrassing for therecipient. Instead, thank them politely and be respectful. The country values dignity more than money.

China is highly advanced in digital payments, but it’s still a good idea to carry cash in rural areas for small purchases. Travelers can use the China Construction Bank as it has ATMs and POS terminals that accept UnionPay cards, which are widely used by tourists.

China travel tips for first-time visitors

Here are some essential first-time travel tips to keep in mind before you enter China:

• Virtual Private Network: Many VPN websites are blocked or heavily regulated in China. So, it’s best to download and set up your VPN before entering the country. Use a reputable provider like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or Surfshark.
• Google Maps: This application does not work in China. However, you can still use it offline by downloading maps of the areas you plan to visit before traveling.
• Chinese apps: Make traveling to China easier with a few handy apps. WeChat is like the Chinese version of WhatsApp, and you can use it to stay in contact, make mobile payments, and book taxis. The Da Zhong Dian Ping is the best for finding local eateries, and Meituan is a go-to for on-demand food delivery.
• Visa and passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date and obtain the necessary visa well in time for your trip.
• Travel logistics: China isn’t a small country, and for your first trip, careful planning of a realistic itinerary will help you make the most of your time at each stop. Consider a popular “golden triangle” travel tour of Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai for a balanced first experience.

What to pack for your first China trip

A successful first-time China tour starts in your suitcase. To avoid spending unnecessary cash, make sure to pack the following items:

• Toiletries: Pack essentials like a toothbrush, wash cloth, hygiene products, toilet paper, and necessary medications.
• Layers: Cozy layers like warm sweaters or jackets will be your best defense against China’s unpredictable weather.
• Sun protection: Pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunblock when visiting during the summer months.
• Comfortable shoes: Ensure you have at least one pair of comfy and sturdy walking shoes for sightseeing and hiking.
• Travel adapter: China uses different plugs, such as Type A, Type C, and Type I, so a travel adapter is essential.
• Power bank: This will be helpful for keeping your devices charged on the go.

Make it happen

From where to go to tips and what to pack, we hope to have covered all the basics to inspire your first trip to China. Now, all that’s left is for you to reach out to our locally-based travel experts, who will help you create an exceptional customized tour to China.