China offers ancient cities, fast-changing skylines, and vast landscapes, from imperial palaces to dramatic river valleys and soaring mountain ranges.
Discover China
Discover China
Why visit China?
What to expect
You can explore historic capitals like Beijing and Hangzhou, modern hubs such as Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou, and cultural centres like Chengdu and Chongqing.
Plan your trip
Use major cities as your base, then connect by air or high-speed rail to nearby regions, making China an ideal gateway to East Asia and beyond.
Top experiences in China
Walk along the Great Wall near Beijing
Spend a day exploring restored sections of the Great Wall, taking in sweeping mountain views and centuries of history just outside Beijing.
Discover Shanghai's waterfront skyline
Stroll along the Bund for riverfront views of historic European-style buildings facing the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong across the Huangpu River.
Explore West Lake in Hangzhou
Cruise or walk around West Lake to see willow-lined shores, ornamental bridges, and islands that have inspired poets and painters for centuries.
Meet giant pandas in Chengdu
Visit a renowned panda base on the outskirts of Chengdu to observe these rare animals in leafy enclosures and learn about conservation efforts.
Cruise the rivers around Chongqing
Use Chongqing as a starting point for river cruises through steep gorges and misty cliffs, with views of traditional villages along the banks.
Unwind on Xiamen's coastal promenades
Walk or cycle along Xiamen's seafront paths, and take a short ferry to nearby islands known for colonial-era architecture and relaxed beaches.
Experience modern innovation in Shenzhen
Explore creative districts, technology hubs, and contemporary art spaces in Shenzhen, one of China's most dynamic and design-focused cities.
Experience China’s way of life
Getting around
High-speed trains link major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, while domestic flights connect farther-flung hubs like Chengdu, Chongqing, Xiamen, and Hangzhou efficiently.
Local life & culture
In China you will find early-morning parks filled with tai chi, bustling neighbourhood streets, and a blend of historic hutongs, riverfront quarters, and new cultural districts.
Where to unwind
Relax in landscaped city parks, lakeside promenades around places like West Lake, or head into nearby mountains and river valleys for fresh air and scenic walks.
A taste of China
National dishes & specialties
Sample regional dishes from Beijing classics to Sichuan specialities in Chengdu and Chongqing, delicate flavours in Hangzhou, and Cantonese favourites in Guangzhou and Shenzhen.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Find casual eateries and contemporary cafes across cities like Shanghai, Beijing, and Shenzhen, where traditional flavours sit alongside modern takes and international options.
Signature & scenic dining
In cities such as Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Xiamen, you can dine with skyline views, riverside terraces, or lakeside vistas that turn a meal into a memorable occasion.
Retail therapy in China
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou offer large malls that combine international labels with local designers, plus cinemas, restaurants, and entertainment spaces.
Markets & local crafts
Browse markets and smaller streets in cities like Chengdu, Hangzhou, and Xiamen for handicrafts, tea, textiles, and souvenirs that reflect local character.
Evening retail scene
After dark, busy shopping streets and illuminated plazas in Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou stay lively, with late-opening stores and street-side stalls.
Best time to visit China
China spans several climate zones, so conditions vary between northern, central, and southern cities. Spring (March to May, shoulder season) is generally mild, with many cities averaging 15–22°C (59–72°F), making it comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor walks. Summer (June to August, peak season) can be hot and humid, especially in cities such as Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Chengdu, where temperatures often reach 28–35°C (82–95°F), and popular sights are busier. Autumn (September to November, shoulder season) brings clearer skies and pleasant temperatures of around 15–24°C (59–75°F) in many destinations, ideal for exploring both cities and countryside. Winter (December to February, low season) is cold in northern cities like Beijing, with temperatures often below 5°C (41°F), while southern cities such as Guangzhou and Xiamen are cooler but milder, and some attractions are quieter.