Why visit China?
China offers ancient capitals, futuristic skylines, and vast landscapes that feel endlessly varied. You can move from imperial palaces to river valleys and neon-lit districts in a single trip.
What to expect
Explore Beijing and Shanghai, the Pearl River Delta cities of Guangzhou and Shenzhen, and inland hubs like Chengdu and Chongqing. Coastal centres such as Xiamen and Hangzhou add calm waterfronts and classical gardens.
Plan your trip
You can combine several regions on one journey, using major cities as easy gateways. From China, you are well placed to continue exploring East Asia, with strong air and rail links across the region.
Discover China
Discover China
Top experiences in China
Walk through Beijing's imperial heart
Spend time among grand courtyards, historic lanes, and landmark squares that chart the story of the capital.
Feel the energy of Shanghai's skyline
Stroll the Bund and watch the towers of Pudong light up across the river as evening falls.
Cruise the rivers and lakes of Hangzhou
Glide across calm waters framed by pagodas, gardens, and willow trees in a classic Chinese landscape.
Taste bold flavours in Chengdu and Chongqing
Discover hotpot, street snacks, and laid-back teahouses in these lively cities of western China.
Explore the Pearl River Delta from Guangzhou or Shenzhen
Use these modern cities as a base for day trips, riverfront walks, and contemporary arts districts.
Unwind by the sea in Xiamen
Slow down on coastal promenades, island parks, and waterfront neighbourhoods shaped by maritime heritage.
Step into China's tech future in Shenzhen
See innovation parks, creative districts, and modern galleries that showcase the country's cutting-edge side.
Discover historic quarters in inland cities
Seek out old streets, hidden courtyards, and local markets tucked between new towers in cities across China.
Experience China’s way of life
Getting around
China has an extensive high-speed rail network linking cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, and Hangzhou quickly and comfortably. Domestic flights complement rail on longer routes, while metro systems and taxis make it easy to move within major cities.
Local life & culture
In Beijing and Shanghai, you will notice a blend of traditional neighbourhoods and modern cultural spaces. Inland cities such as Chengdu and Chongqing often feel more relaxed, with teahouses and lively squares that fill in the evenings, while coastal hubs like Xiamen have a gentler seaside rhythm.
Where to unwind
Across China you will find lakeside promenades, mountain parks, and urban green spaces where locals walk, dance, or practise morning exercise. From Hangzhou’s lakeshores to Chengdu’s parks and Shenzhen’s waterfront paths, there are many places to slow down and watch city life unfold.
A taste of China
National dishes & specialties
China is known for regional cuisines that range from the bold, peppery dishes of Sichuan around Chengdu and Chongqing to refined specialities in Beijing and Shanghai. In the south, cities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen are closely associated with Cantonese cooking and delicate dim sum.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In every major city you will find simple noodle shops, steaming dumpling counters, and contemporary cafés side by side. Neighbourhood streets in Beijing, Shanghai, and Xiamen, as well as busy districts in Shenzhen and Guangzhou, offer convenient places to try local flavours at almost any time of day.
Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, consider restaurants overlooking riverfront skylines in Shanghai or Guangzhou, or lake views in Hangzhou. Many hotels and landmark towers in big cities offer elevated dining rooms, where the lights of the city create a memorable backdrop to your meal.
Retail therapy in China
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large malls in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen bring together international labels, local designers, and entertainment under one roof. You can pair shopping with cinemas, cafés, and family-friendly activities in these lifestyle complexes.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and boutique streets in cities like Beijing, Chengdu, and Hangzhou showcase crafts, tea, textiles, and souvenirs. Smaller districts in Xiamen and Chongqing often feature independent shops where you can find locally made pieces and everyday curiosities.
Evening retail scene
After dark, commercial streets in Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou glow with signs, street food, and late-opening stores. Some neighbourhoods host evening markets or pedestrian zones, giving you a chance to browse, snack, and people-watch well into the night.
Best time to visit China
Spring shoulder season (March to May): Many regions are mild, with typical temperatures around 10–22°C (50–72°F), making it comfortable for city walks and sightseeing.
Summer peak season (June to August): In much of eastern and southern China, temperatures often range from 24–32°C (75–90°F), with warmer and more humid conditions in cities such as Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Xiamen.
Autumn and winter low season (September to February): Autumn is usually clear and cool at about 10–20°C (50–68°F), while winter in cities like Beijing and Hangzhou can fall below 0–8°C (32–46°F), bringing colder but quieter travel periods.