China blends ancient history, cutting-edge cities, and vast natural landscapes, offering everything from imperial palaces and classical gardens to dramatic mountains and fast-paced urban life.
Discover China
Discover China
Why visit China?
What to expect
You will find high-energy hubs like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen alongside historic river towns, misty mountain ranges, and quiet countryside, all linked by modern transport and diverse regional cultures.
Plan your trip
Use major gateways such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Hangzhou to explore wider regions by high-speed rail or domestic flights, combining big-city breaks with day trips into nature or heritage towns.
Top experiences in China
Walk along the Great Wall near Beijing
Explore restored sections of the Great Wall as it winds over ridgelines outside Beijing, taking in sweeping views and centuries of history.
Soak up the skyline in Shanghai
Stroll the Bund, then cross to Pudong for towering city views from observation decks that look out over the Huangpu River and glittering skyscrapers.
Cruise the rivers and lakes of Hangzhou and beyond
Glide across Hangzhou s West Lake or take a river cruise in other classical water towns to see stone bridges, temples, and gardens from the water.
Explore vibrant streets in Guangzhou and Shenzhen
Discover modern shopping districts, leafy boulevards, and lively neighbourhoods that showcase southern China s design, tech, and creative scenes.
Discover Chengdu and western China
Use Chengdu as a base for meeting giant pandas at dedicated centres and for trips into Sichuan s mountain landscapes and historic towns.
Uncover Xiamen s coastal charm
Wander Xiamen s seafront promenades and nearby islands, where colonial-era architecture and leafy streets meet beaches and sea breezes.
Experience river city life in Chongqing
See Chongqing s dramatic skyline rising above steep hillsides and river confluences, with viewpoints, cableways, and lively urban districts.
Experience China s way of life
Getting around
China s high-speed rail network efficiently links cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, and Hangzhou, while domestic flights connect further-flung hubs like Chongqing and Xiamen. Within cities, metros, buses, and taxis provide convenient local travel.
Local life & culture
Morning exercise in city parks, traditional tea houses, calligraphy, and classical opera sit alongside contemporary art districts, music venues, and design-led neighbourhoods, giving you a mix of long-held traditions and modern urban culture.
Where to unwind
Relax in landscaped city parks and lakeside promenades in Hangzhou and Chengdu, escape to bamboo forests and mountain viewpoints outside major cities, or stroll quiet historic lanes and riverfronts in Xiamen, Chongqing, and other regional hubs.
A taste of China
National dishes & specialties
Sample Beijing s famed roast duck, fiery Sichuan flavours in Chengdu, refined Hangzhou dishes by the lake, and Cantonese cuisine in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, each region offering its own signature styles and comfort classics.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, and Xiamen, you will find relaxed eateries, contemporary cafes, and food streets offering everything from noodles and dumplings to modern takes on regional dishes, perfect for easy lunches and late-night bites.
Signature & scenic dining
Look for riverfront dining in Shanghai and Chongqing, skyline restaurants in Beijing and Shenzhen, and waterside venues in Hangzhou and Xiamen that pair regional cooking with striking city or lake views.
Retail therapy in China
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen offer large malls with international labels, local designers, cinemas, and dining, while Chengdu and Hangzhou add stylish lifestyle centres with a more relaxed pace.
Markets & local crafts
Explore markets and smaller boutiques in cities such as Beijing, Chengdu, and Xiamen for handicrafts, textiles, ceramics, and contemporary design pieces that reflect local traditions and creativity.
Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets and malls in Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and other major cities stay lively with illuminated storefronts, late-opening stores, and nearby cafes and entertainment.
Best time to visit China
Spring (March to May, shoulder season) brings mild weather across much of China, with average temperatures around 15–20°C (59–68°F) in major cities, blooming parks, and generally comfortable sightseeing conditions. Summer (June to August, peak season) is warm to hot, with many cities ranging from 25–32°C (77–90°F), school holidays, and busy attractions, especially in coastal and mountain resorts. Autumn (September to November, shoulder season) is often clear and dry, with pleasant 15–22°C (59–72°F) temperatures ideal for city visits and outdoor trips, while winter (December to February, low season) can be cold in the north and milder in the south, bringing fewer crowds and a quieter atmosphere.