Flights from Surabaya (SUB) to China

Discover China

Discover China

Why visit China?
China offers a fascinating blend of ancient civilisations, dynamic megacities, and landscapes that range from river valleys to dramatic mountains. You can explore imperial palaces, cutting-edge art districts, and fast-changing skylines in a single journey.

What to expect
From the capital Beijing and stylish Shanghai, to cultural hubs such as Hangzhou and Chengdu, each region reveals a different side of the country. Coastal centres like Xiamen, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou bring maritime heritage and innovative technology to the forefront.

Plan your trip
China is a strong base for exploring East Asia, with extensive high-speed rail and domestic flight networks linking major cities. Flying via Singapore gives you flexible connections from Surabaya, so you can combine several regions of China in one itinerary.

Top experiences in China

Walk through history in Beijing

Explore monumental city landmarks, grand squares, and well-preserved traditional districts that reveal centuries of imperial history.

Soak up Shanghai's skyline

Stroll along riverfront promenades and look across to futuristic towers that define one of Asia's most recognisable skylines.

Discover canals and tea culture in Hangzhou

Wander around tranquil lakes, historic canals, and leafy streets that showcase a refined lakeside lifestyle.

Experience modern China in Shenzhen

See how former industrial districts have become creative neighbourhoods filled with galleries, design spaces, and green boulevards.

Explore Cantonese heritage in Guangzhou

Walk between traditional neighbourhoods and glass towers while discovering riverside paths and distinct Lingnan architecture.

Meet giant pandas in Chengdu

Visit conservation centres on the city outskirts and learn about efforts to protect one of the world’s most beloved animals.

Trace riverside life in Chongqing

Ride funiculars and bridges across steep hillsides to see how this mountain city has grown around its confluence of rivers.

Enjoy coastal charm in Xiamen

Relax along tree-lined waterfronts and islands where European-style villas and local architecture sit side by side.

Experience China’s way of life

Getting around
China has an extensive high-speed rail network linking cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Chengdu, and Chongqing in just a few hours. In major cities you can rely on modern metro systems, taxis, and ride-hailing apps for efficient daily travel.

Local life & culture
City life mixes traditional neighbourhoods with sleek business districts, from hutong alleys in Beijing to former concessions in Shanghai. Public squares, riverside promenades, and landscaped parks are everyday gathering spaces, where you can watch dancing groups, card games, and relaxed evening strolls.

Where to unwind
Urban parks, classical gardens, and lakeside walks offer calm in the heart of dense cities like Hangzhou, Chengdu, and Guangzhou. Coastal destinations such as Xiamen and river cities like Chongqing provide scenic viewpoints, cable cars, and river cruises where you can slow down and take in the scenery.

A taste of China

National dishes & specialties
China’s regions each have distinctive flavours, from the bold, peppery dishes of Chengdu and Chongqing to lighter Cantonese classics in Guangzhou and Shenzhen. In Beijing and Shanghai, you will find celebrated local specialities that reflect centuries of culinary evolution.

Casual & modern dining hubs
In cities like Shanghai, Beijing, and Shenzhen, you can move easily between casual eateries, contemporary bistros, and international restaurants in a single district. Food streets and shopping complexes often house many options, making it simple to sample different regional styles in one evening.

Signature & scenic dining
Riverside restaurants in Guangzhou and Chongqing, lakefront venues in Hangzhou, and rooftop spaces in Shanghai create memorable settings for a special meal. Many upscale venues highlight regional ingredients and offer skyline or waterfront views that complement the dining experience.

Retail therapy in China

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Major cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen feature large malls that combine international brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining. These lifestyle centres are usually connected to metro lines, making them easy to reach during a busy day of sightseeing.

Markets & local crafts
In Beijing and Shanghai, older shopping streets and markets showcase handicrafts, tea, and souvenirs that reflect local traditions. Cities like Chengdu and Hangzhou are also known for artisanal products such as textiles, fans, and teaware, often sold in restored historic districts.

Evening retail scene
After dark, commercial streets in Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou remain lively with illuminated shopfronts and extended opening hours. Night markets and pedestrian zones in several cities offer snacks, accessories, and small gifts in an atmospheric setting.

Best time to visit China

Spring shoulder season (March to May): Many parts of China enjoy mild weather, with average temperatures around 10–22°C (50–72°F). This period often brings blooming parks and comfortable conditions for city walking.

Summer peak season (June to August): Temperatures in cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen can reach 25–35°C (77–95°F), with higher humidity in the south. It is a popular time for domestic travel and school holidays.

Autumn shoulder season (September to November): Many regions cool to around 10–24°C (50–75°F), with clearer skies and changing foliage, especially in northern and inland cities. Winter low season (December to February) can be cold in the north, often between -5–10°C (23–50°F), while southern cities remain milder.

Frequently Asked Questions