China offers ancient history, modern skylines, and vast landscapes, from imperial palaces to high-tech cities and serene countryside.
Discover China
Discover China
Why visit China?
What to expect
You can explore global cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, along with cultural hubs such as Chengdu, Hangzhou, Chongqing, and Xiamen.
Plan your trip
China suits both short city breaks and longer journeys linking several regions, and often forms part of wider trips across East and Southeast Asia.
Top experiences in China
Great Wall near Beijing
Walk restored sections of the Great Wall near Beijing for sweeping mountain views and a sense of the country’s ancient scale.
The Bund and Pudong in Shanghai
Stroll along the Bund to see colonial-era facades facing the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong across the Huangpu River.
West Lake in Hangzhou
Cruise or walk around West Lake, framed by pagodas, gardens, and low hills that have inspired poets for centuries.
Giant pandas in Chengdu
Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see these iconic animals in a spacious, green setting.
Cantonese heritage in Guangzhou
Explore traditional neighbourhoods, riverfront promenades, and modern architecture that showcase Guangzhou’s trading past and dynamic present.
Coastal charm of Xiamen
Enjoy Xiamen’s mild climate, leafy streets, and ferry rides to Gulangyu Island, known for its historic villas and car-free lanes.
Urban energy in Shenzhen
Experience Shenzhen’s fast-paced design, technology, and shopping districts, with contemporary art spaces and green parks woven through the city.
Experience China’s way of life
Getting around
High-speed trains link major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Hangzhou, Xiamen, and Chongqing, while domestic flights connect longer distances efficiently. Within cities, metros, taxis, and ride-hailing apps make local travel straightforward.
Local life & culture
China’s daily rhythm ranges from morning exercises in city parks to evening strolls along rivers and lakes, with strong traditions in calligraphy, tea, festivals, and regional arts. Each region has its own dialect, customs, and architectural style, giving every city a distinct character.
Where to unwind
Relax in classical gardens, lakeside promenades, or mountain parks around cities such as Hangzhou, Chengdu, and Chongqing, or find calm in riverside walkways in Guangzhou and Xiamen. Many urban parks offer shaded paths, pavilions, and open spaces ideal for quiet breaks between sightseeing.
A taste of China
National dishes & specialties
China is known for regional cuisines such as Beijing-style roast dishes, Shanghai’s braised and steamed favourites, Sichuan’s bold, spicy flavours in Chengdu and Chongqing, and delicate Cantonese cooking in Guangzhou and Shenzhen.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Chengdu, you will find everything from small neighbourhood eateries and noodle shops to sleek cafes and contemporary bistros, reflecting both local tastes and international influences.
Signature & scenic dining
You can dine in riverfront restaurants along the Pearl River in Guangzhou, enjoy skyline views from rooftop venues in Shanghai and Shenzhen, or choose lakeside settings in Hangzhou for a memorable meal with a view.
Retail therapy in China
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou feature large malls and lifestyle centres that combine international labels with Chinese designers, plus cinemas, cafes, and entertainment under one roof.
Markets & local crafts
You can browse for handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs in traditional streets and markets in Beijing, Chengdu, and Xiamen, as well as specialist districts in Shanghai and Hangzhou known for design and tea-related items.
Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets and entertainment zones in Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Beijing light up with boutiques, street stalls, and late-opening malls, creating a lively atmosphere for browsing and people-watching.
Best time to visit China
Spring shoulder season runs roughly from March to May, with many eastern cities seeing mild days around 15–22°C (59–72°F) and blooming parks. Summer peak season is from June to August, when temperatures in cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu often reach 26–32°C (79–90°F), with higher humidity in southern areas. Autumn shoulder season from September to early November usually brings comfortable 15–24°C (59–75°F) days and clearer skies across much of the country, while winter low season from late November to February can be cold in northern cities, often between -5 and 8°C (23–46°F), and milder but still cool in the south.