China offers a blend of ancient history, fast-changing cities, dramatic landscapes, and thriving creative scenes, giving you countless ways to experience its diverse character.
China offers a blend of ancient history, fast-changing cities, dramatic landscapes, and thriving creative scenes, giving you countless ways to experience its diverse character.
From the historic capitals of Beijing and Hangzhou to the waterfront skylines of Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Xiamen, and the inland hubs of Chengdu and Chongqing, each region reveals a different pace of life and style of city.
With major air links, extensive high-speed rail, and well-developed city transport, China is ideal for both first-time visits and deeper regional journeys, as well as a convenient gateway to wider East Asia.
Explore Beijing's grand avenues, hidden alleyways, and imperial landmarks that trace the story of China across dynasties.
Stroll along the Bund and look across to the futuristic towers of Pudong, then dive into creative neighbourhoods and riverside promenades.
Take an evening cruise to see Guangzhou's illuminated skyline and landmark bridges from the water.
Enjoy breezy waterfront walks, green city parks, and modern architecture along the shores of Xiamen and Shenzhen.
Experience Chengdu's leafy streets, teahouses, and wide public squares that invite you to slow your pace.
Ride between levels of this dramatic riverside city, where steep streets, bridges, and viewpoints reveal shifting angles of the skyline.
Circle Hangzhou's famous lakeside landscapes, framed by causeways, pavilions, and seasonal flowers.
For longer distances, use China’s extensive domestic flight network or high-speed rail linking hubs like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Chongqing, while metros, buses, and ride-hailing apps make it easy to move around within major cities.
In big cities, you will find a rhythm that shifts from busy business districts to quieter neighbourhood lanes, public squares, and riverside promenades, where people gather to exercise, socialise, and enjoy open-air performances.
Escape into city parks, riverside paths, lakeside walks, and nearby hills around cities like Hangzhou, Chengdu, and Xiamen, where you can enjoy slower strolls, scenic viewpoints, and fresh air between days of urban exploring.
Signature styles range from bold flavours in Chengdu and Chongqing to refined dishes in Hangzhou, hearty northern fare in Beijing, and Cantonese favourites in Guangzhou and Shenzhen.
Across Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou, you will find casual eateries, contemporary cafés, and stylish bistros, with menus that span regional Chinese cooking and global influences in lively neighbourhoods.
Enjoy riverfront dinners in Guangzhou and Chongqing, skyline views from high-rise restaurants in Shanghai and Shenzhen, or tranquil lakeside settings in Hangzhou for memorable meals with a view.
Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou feature large shopping complexes that bring together international labels, local designers, cinemas, and lifestyle venues under one roof.
Look for distinctive crafts and regional goods at dedicated markets and shopping streets in cities such as Beijing, Chengdu, and Hangzhou, where independent makers and small boutiques sit alongside traditional stalls.
In many major cities, shopping districts and commercial streets stay lively into the evening, with illuminated storefronts, extended opening hours, and a relaxed atmosphere for strolling and browsing after dark.
Spring shoulder season (March to May) brings mild weather to many parts of China, with typical daytime temperatures around 15–22°C (59–72°F), making it comfortable for city walks and sightseeing. Summer peak season (June to August) is generally warm to hot, with average temperatures around 25–32°C (77–90°F) in many eastern cities, drawing more visitors during school holidays and festival periods. Autumn shoulder season (September to early November) usually sees clear skies and pleasant temperatures between 15–24°C (59–75°F), offering comfortable conditions across cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu. Winter low season (late November to February) can be cold in northern and inland cities, with averages around 0–8°C (32–46°F), while southern coastal areas such as Guangzhou and Shenzhen stay milder.