China blends ancient civilisations, fast-changing cities, and vast natural landscapes. You can explore centuries-old heritage alongside modern skylines and a rich mix of regional cultures.
Discover China
Discover China
Why visit China?
What to expect
From the cultural powerhouses of Beijing and Shanghai to the dynamic Pearl River Delta cities like Shenzhen and Guangzhou, China offers historic landmarks, innovative design, and diverse scenery across mountains, rivers, and coastlines.
Plan your trip
China is well connected by high-speed rail and domestic flights, making it easy to combine several cities in one journey, and it also serves as a major gateway for exploring East Asia and beyond.
Top experiences in China
Walk the Great Wall near Beijing
Travel out of Beijing to walk restored sections of the Great Wall, taking in sweeping valley views and the scale of this historic fortification.
Explore Shanghai’s Bund and skyline
Stroll along the Bund for riverfront views of colonial-era buildings facing the futuristic skyscrapers of Lujiazui, especially striking at night.
Discover West Lake in Hangzhou
Cruise or walk around West Lake to enjoy its pagodas, gardens, and misty hills that have inspired poets and painters for centuries.
Uncover history in Xiamen and Gulangyu
Take a ferry from Xiamen to Gulangyu Island, known for its leafy lanes, heritage villas, and relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Experience Chengdu’s panda conservation centres
Visit panda research bases near Chengdu to see giant pandas and learn about ongoing conservation work in a naturalistic setting.
Soak up the energy of Shenzhen and Guangzhou
Explore vibrant districts in Shenzhen and Guangzhou, where modern architecture, design, and creative spaces sit alongside historic temples and old streets.
Admire Chongqing’s river landscapes
See Chongqing’s dramatic skyline rising above the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, and use it as a jumping-off point for nearby river valleys.
Discover Shanghai’s historic lanes
Wander through Shanghai’s traditional lilong and restored shikumen neighbourhoods, where narrow alleyways reveal courtyards, cafés, and boutiques.
Experience China’s way of life
Getting around
High-speed rail links major hubs such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Hangzhou, while frequent domestic flights connect cities like Chengdu, Chongqing, and Xiamen; in urban areas, efficient metros and ride-hailing apps make day-to-day travel straightforward.
Local life & culture
City parks fill early with people practising tai chi, dancing, or playing games, while historic districts, temples, and museums reveal layers of dynastic history, modern art, and distinct local traditions across each province.
Where to unwind
Relax on lakeside promenades in Hangzhou, escape to bamboo forests and mountain trails outside Chengdu and Chongqing, or seek quiet moments in landscaped gardens and riverside parks dotted throughout Chinese cities.
A taste of China
National dishes & specialties
From Beijing’s roast duck and Shanghai’s delicate dumplings to the bold, peppery flavours of Sichuan cooking in Chengdu and Chongqing, each region is known for distinctive dishes and ingredients.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In cities such as Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Xiamen, you can find everything from simple noodle shops and canteens to modern bistros and cafés offering both regional favourites and global flavours.
Signature & scenic dining
Enjoy river- or lakeside restaurants in Hangzhou, skyline views from high-rise venues in Beijing and Shanghai, or intimate courtyards and converted lane houses that serve thoughtfully presented menus.
Retail therapy in China
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou feature large malls and lifestyle centres where you can browse international labels, Chinese designer brands, and technology stores in air-conditioned comfort.
Markets & local crafts
Look for old streets and markets in cities like Chengdu, Hangzhou, and Xiamen to find tea, handicrafts, calligraphy, textiles, and other locally made items to bring home.
Evening retail scene
After dark, commercial districts in Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou glow with neon signs, with many malls, pedestrian streets, and small boutiques staying open late for relaxed browsing.
Best time to visit China
Spring shoulder season (March to May) brings mild weather to much of China, with average temperatures around 10–22°C (50–72°F), blooming parks, and comfortable conditions for city sightseeing. Summer peak season (June to August) is warm to hot, often 25–35°C (77–95°F), with humid conditions in southern cities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen, and busier attractions in major hubs such as Beijing and Shanghai. Autumn shoulder season (September to early November) offers clear skies and pleasant temperatures of roughly 12–24°C (54–75°F) across many regions, making it popular for both urban and countryside trips; winter low season (late November to February) can fall below 0°C (32°F) in northern cities like Beijing, while southern areas stay cooler but generally above freezing.