Why Everyone's Obsessed with Traveling to China? Here's the Ultimate Guide 🌏

1. Beijing: Walk Through History (and Maybe Meet a Royal Ghost 👑)

No trip to China is complete without Beijing—the heart of the country’s history and culture. Even former US President Bill Clinton gushed that the Forbidden City was "absolutely spectacular," and once you step through its Meridian Gate, you’ll see why. Wander the 720,000-square-meter complex: pause at the Hall of Supreme Harmony (where emperors held coronations) to admire the golden dragon throne, and peek into the imperial gardens where concubines once strolled. Pro tip: Rent a Hanfu (traditional silk costume) from shops near Tiananmen Square—opt for embroidered dragon patterns for men or peony designs for women. Not only will your photos stand out, but locals might even mistake you for a "royal visitor" and offer to take snapshots! Don’t miss the daily flag-raising ceremony at Tiananmen Square—arrive 1 hour early for a front-row spot; the precision of the People’s Liberation Army guards is a moving sight.

After the Forbidden City, head 70km north to theMutianyu Great Wall—a far quieter alternative to the crowded Badaling section. Climb the stone steps winding up green peaks, and stop at watchtowers to catch your breath and snap photos of the wall snaking into the distance like a stone dragon. For a thrill, take the cable car up and slide down on a toboggan (safe for all ages!)—it’s a fun way to descend while enjoying the scenery. Hiking to the top at sunrise is non-negotiable: as the first light paints the peaks pink, you’ll understand why it’s called the "Longest Gallery on Earth." Bonus: The night tour (7 PM–10 PM) transforms the wall with 2,200 red lanterns and LED lights—walk under the glow and listen to local storytellers share tales of soldiers who guarded the wall centuries ago. Nearby, try "wall-side noodles" at a family-run restaurant—they serve hand-pulled noodles in a savory broth with pickled vegetables, a favorite of weary hikers.

For the young and trendy, Beijing’s not just about ancient history—don’t missPop Mart City Park, the world’s first theme park dedicated to a toy IP. This colorful wonderland is a hit with millennials and Gen Z: pose with giant LABUBU and Molly statues, join interactive workshops to paint your own figurines, and visit the limited-edition store for exclusive designs you can’t buy anywhere else. Afterward, wanderSanlitun, Beijing’s answer to Rodeo Drive—window-shop at luxury boutiques, grab a latte at a minimalist café, and people-watch (it’s one of the best spots to see Beijing’s fashion-forward crowd). For dinner, hitGuijie Street—a 1km stretch of food stalls serving everything from spicy crayfish to crispy Peking duck wraps. Try the "emotional fried rice" at a tiny stall run by Aunty Li—she’s been serving it for 20 years, and locals swear it tastes like "home."

Beijing Folk Customs & Tips: If you’re visiting during Spring Festival (January–February), don’t miss theDitan Temple Fair—locals fly kites, watch lion dances, and eat sweet glutinous rice cakes (nian gao). A key etiquette tip: When visiting temples like the Temple of Heaven, don’t step on the central stone slab (it’s for emperors only). Also, when receiving tea from locals, tap the table twice with your index and middle fingers—it’s a silent "thank you" (a tradition from imperial times when officials couldn’t bow to servants). Avoid giving clocks as gifts—they symbolize "running out of time" in Chinese culture.

2. Xi’an: Time-Travel to the Qin Dynasty (with VR Magic 🛡️)

Xi’an is where China’s imperial history comes to life—and theTerracotta Armyis its most jaw-dropping masterpiece. Discovered in 1974 by a farmer digging a well, this army of 8,000 life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots was built to guard Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. What’s incredible? Each soldier has a unique face, hairstyle, and armor—no two are the same. German tourist Clara, who visited last year, said, "I stood there for 20 minutes just staring—you can feel the weight of history." Rent a multilingual audio guide (available in English, Spanish, and French) to learn about the army’s construction, or join a small-group tour with an archaeologist who can point out hidden details (like the soldiers’ different shoe sizes, which indicated their rank). For a hands-on experience, book a 1-hour workshop at the nearby Terracotta Craft Center—mold and fire your own mini terracotta warrior, and carve your name on the base as a souvenir. Don’t miss the "Emperor’s Banquet" at a restaurant near the site—try braised pork ribs with osmanthus sauce and millet porridge, dishes that date back to the Qin Dynasty.

After the Terracotta Army, explore theXi’an City Wall—the best-preserved ancient city wall in China, built in the Ming Dynasty. Stretching 13.7km around the old town, it’s wide enough for 8 horses to walk side by side. Rent a single-speed bike (30 yuan for 1.5 hours) and cycle the full loop at sunset—watch as the golden light hits the wall’s crenellations and the old town below lights up with red lanterns. If cycling isn’t your thing, take a horse-drawn carriage ride (200 yuan for 30 minutes) and listen to the driver share stories about the wall’s history. For dinner, skip the fancy restaurants and head toMuslim Street—a bustling alleyway in Xi’an’s Muslim quarter. Try yangrou paomo (lamb soup with bread): tear the wheat bread into small pieces, and the chef will boil it in rich lamb broth with radish and green onions. Top it with chili oil and garlic for extra flavor. Don’t forget to grab a stick of candied hawthorns (bing tang hu lu) for dessert—crunchy sugar coating over tart hawthorns, a classic Xi’an snack.

Pro move: Spend an evening atChang’an Twelve Hours Theme Block, a 20,000-square-meter complex that recreates the glory of the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD), China’s "Golden Age." Dress up in Tang-style costumes (rental shops on-site have over 1,000 options, from imperial robes to maiden dresses) and wander the streets lined with silk shops, calligraphy studios, and tea houses. Join interactive games: solve riddles with NPCs dressed as Tang poets (look for "Li Bai," China’s most famous poet, reciting verses), or try archery at a military training ground. Don’t miss the VR lantern show at night—3D projections of Tang Dynasty scenes (like imperial processions and lotus ponds) light up the sky, set to traditional music. Ukrainian tourist Olena said, "It’s like stepping into a Tang Dynasty movie—I forgot I was in modern Xi’an for a moment. " End the night with a cup of "Tang tea"—jasmine tea brewed in a porcelain teapot, served with sweet osmanthus cakes.

Xi’an Folk Customs & Tips: Xi’an is home to a large Hui Muslim community, so when visitingGreat Mosque of Xi’an(one of China’s oldest mosques), dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) and remove your shoes before entering the prayer hall. During the Mid-Autumn Festival (September–October), locals make "mooncakes"—round pastries with lotus seed or red bean filling, shared with family. A dining tip: When eating at Muslim Street, use your right hand or utensils—avoid using your left hand (it’s considered impolite in some Muslim cultures). Also, bargain politely at street stalls—start with half the asking price, and smile while negotiating.

3. Chengdu: Pandas + Hot Pot = Perfect Day 🐼🌶️

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is often called "China’s Happiest City"—and it’s easy to see why. Start your day at theChengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, a 92-hectare sanctuary for giant pandas and red pandas. Arrive by 8 AM (when the pandas are most active) and watch them munch bamboo, roll around in the grass, and play with enrichment toys. Book a "Panda Keeper Experience" (300 yuan per person) to feed a panda bamboo shoots and clean its enclosure—you’ll get a certificate and photos to take home. Afterward, head toKuanzhai Alley, a trio of ancient alleys that blend traditional architecture with modern cafes and shops. Wander the narrow lanes, stop at a street food stall for skewers (try beef with Sichuan peppercorns—numbs your lips in the best way), and sample mapo tofu at a family-run restaurant. The owner, Grandma Wang, has been making it for 40 years—silky tofu in a spicy, numbing sauce with ground pork. For a sweet treat, try "three guns" (san jian)—fried dough sticks dipped in sweet soybean milk, a classic Chengdu breakfast.

To truly experience local life, join aSichuan opera showat the Shufeng Yayun Teahouse. This intimate venue (seats 200) serves tea and snacks during the show, which features four classic acts: face-changing (performers swap colorful masks in 0.1 seconds—no one knows how they do it!), spitting fire (artists blow flames up to 3 meters high), singing (traditional Sichuan melodies with bamboo flute accompaniment), and acrobatics (performers do flips and balancing acts on a wooden table). After the show, meet the performers—they’ll teach you how to do a simple face-changing move and let you try on their masks. For a more laid-back activity, visitPeople’s Park—a favorite spot for locals to relax. Join a tai chi class (free, 7–9 AM), play a game of mahjong with elders (they’ll teach you the rules if you ask nicely), or sip jasmine tea in the historic Heming Teahouse. Built in 1923, it’s the oldest teahouse in Chengdu—order a "gaiwan tea" (tea served in a lidded cup) and watch tea masters perform the "long-spout tea" trick, pouring hot water into cups from a 1-meter-long spout without spilling a drop.

Chengdu Folk Customs & Tips: Chengdu locals are famous for their "slow life"—don’t rush when drinking tea or eating hot pot (meals can last 2–3 hours!). If you’re invited to a local’s home for hot pot, wait for the host to start eating before you begin. A key custom: Tap the table twice with your fingers when the host refills your tea—it’s a sign of gratitude. During the Dragon Boat Festival (June), watch dragon boat races on the Jinjiang River and try "zongzi" (glutinous rice wrapped in bamboo leaves). A practical tip: Sichuan food is extremely spicy—ask for "wei la" (slightly spicy) if you can’t handle heat, and have a glass of "ice powder" (sweet, cold dessert) to cool your mouth.

4. Zhangjiajie: Step Into Avatar’s Pandora 🪨

If you’re a nature lover, Zhangjiajie in Hunan Province will leave you speechless. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its 3,000 quartz sandstone peaks—tall, thin pillars covered in green vegetation that rise from a sea of mist. It’s no wonder director James Cameron used it as inspiration for the floating mountains of Pandora inAvatar. Start withTianmen Mountain, home to the "Heaven’s Gate"—a 131.5-meter-high natural archway in the mountain. Take the world’s longest outdoor elevator (335 meters) up to the arch, then walk theGlass Skywalk—a 60-meter-long transparent bridge clinging to the side of the mountain, 1,430 meters above the ground. If you’re brave, look down to see the forest floor far below! Next, take the world’s longest cable car (7.5 km) from the mountain to the city— the 30-minute ride offers panoramic views of the peaks and valleys. Don’t missHuanglong Cave, one of China’s largest karst caves. Inside, you’ll find stalactites and stalagmites shaped like lions, dragons, and lotus flowers—illuminated by colored lights that make them look like crystal sculptures. The cave is also home to a underground river—take a boat ride (50 yuan) and listen to the guide explain how the formations took millions of years to form.

Local secret: Skip the crowded main trails and hike theGolden Whip Streamat dawn. This 5.7km trail follows a crystal-clear stream through a forest of pine trees and bamboo, with small waterfalls and pools along the way. You’ll likely see monkeys (they’re friendly but don’t feed them!) and colorful birds. Stop at the "Lover’s Peak"—two peaks leaning against each other, said to represent a couple who fell in love and turned to stone. For lunch, eat at a "farmhouse restaurant" near the trail—try braised pork with bamboo shoots and stir-fried wild vegetables, all grown on the farmer’s land. After hiking, soak your feet in a hot spring at a nearby resort—Zhangjiajie’s hot springs are rich in minerals, perfect for soothing tired muscles. If you’re staying overnight, book a room in a "cliffside inn"—some rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the peaks. Wake up early to watch the mist roll in— it’s like living in a fairy tale.

Zhangjiajie Folk Customs & Tips: Zhangjiajie is home to the Tujia and Miao ethnic minorities. Don’t miss theTujia "Sister’s Meal"—a festival in March where Tujia girls serve colorful glutinous rice to boys they like. If you receive the rice, it means the girl is interested! When visiting Miao villages, avoid touching the silver jewelry displayed outside homes (it’s for sale, not decoration). A hiking tip: Wear non-slip shoes—trails can be wet and slippery after rain. Also, respect nature—don’t pick flowers or carve on rocks (it’s illegal and disrespectful to local culture). If you buy handicrafts like bamboo baskets, ask the artisan to teach you a simple weaving technique—they’ll be happy to share.

5. Shanghai: Old Meets New (and It’s Fabulous 🚢)

Shanghai is China’s most international city— a melting pot of old and new that’s perfect for first-time visitors. Start with theBund, a 1.5km waterfront promenade lined with 52 colonial-era buildings (built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries). Stroll along the Huangpu River at night— the buildings are lit up with golden lights, and the futuristic Oriental Pearl Tower (with its glowing spheres) rises on the opposite bank. Take a 2-yuan ferry ride from the Bund to Pudong— it’s the cheapest way to get skyline photos (far better than paying for a observation deck!). For a bird’s-eye view, visit theShanghai Tower— the tallest building in China (632 meters). Take the elevator to the 118th floor observation deck (180 yuan) and look down at the city’s skyscrapers and narrow alleyways. Afterward, wanderNanjing Road, China’s busiest shopping street— browse luxury stores like Louis Vuitton and Gucci, or pick up cheap souvenirs at the pedestrian mall. Stop at a "milk tea shop" (China’s favorite drink) and try a taro milk tea with boba— creamy, sweet, and perfect for a hot day.

For old-world charm, take a 1-hour subway ride toZhujiajiao Water Town— a 1,700-year-old town known as the "Venice of the East." Wander its narrow stone streets and cross its 36 ancient bridges (some date back to the Ming Dynasty). Take a gondola ride (100 yuan for 30 minutes) along the canals— the boatman will pole through narrow waterways past white-walled houses with willow trees hanging over the edges. Stop at a waterfront teahouse and order osmanthus tea— brewed with fresh osmanthus flowers, it has a sweet, floral aroma. For lunch, try "eight-treasure rice" (ba bao fan)— glutinous rice mixed with dates, lotus seeds, and raisins, steamed in a bamboo basket. Afterward, visit theZhujiajiao Ancient Town Museum— housed in a 300-year-old mansion, it displays ancient furniture, pottery, and paintings that tell the town’s history. Don’t miss the "昆曲" (Kunqu opera) performance on a boat— Kunqu is one of China’s oldest opera forms, with soft melodies and graceful dance moves. It’s a slow, elegant show— perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

And yes—Shanghai Disneylandis a must, even if you’ve been to other Disney parks. What makes it unique? The "Treasure Cove" land— the first Disney land dedicated to pirates. Ride "Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure"— a 3D dark ride where you’ll sail through a sunken pirate ship, battle other pirates with water cannons, and meet Captain Jack Sparrow. The "Frozen" ride is also a hit— sing along to "Let It Go" as you journey through Arendelle. For food, skip the standard burgers and try Disney’s Chinese-inspired snacks: Mickey-shaped pork buns (steamed buns with ground pork filling), and "zongzi" (glutinous rice wrapped in bamboo leaves with pork and chestnuts). Stay for the night parade— floats shaped like Mulan, Moana, and other Disney characters light up the street, set to Chinese versions of Disney songs. If you’re traveling with kids, book a "Princess Breakfast" at the Enchanted Storybook Castle— your little ones can meet Cinderella, Snow White, and Mulan while eating pancakes and fruit.

Shanghai Folk Customs & Tips: Shanghai’s "Shikumen" lane houses are a unique part of local culture—visitXintiandito see restored Shikumen homes with modern cafes inside. When greeting locals, a handshake is acceptable, but avoid hugging (it’s not common in formal settings). During the Lantern Festival (February), visitYuyuan Gardento see thousands of colorful lanterns and guess riddles written on them. A dining tip: Shanghai food is sweet—if you prefer savory, ask for "bu yao tai tian" (not too sweet). Also, when taking the subway during rush hour (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM), let passengers exit before boarding—pushing is considered rude. If you’re shopping on Nanjing Road, keep an eye on your belongings—crowded areas can have pickpockets.

Pro Tips for Foreign Travelers 📝

• Visa & Transportation: Many countries (including the US, EU, South Korea, and Russia) enjoy 15–30 days of visa-free access to China— check the official consulate website for details. Within cities, use Didi (China’s Uber) for taxis— the app has an English version, and fares are cheap (10–20 yuan for short rides). Between cities, take the high-speed train— it’s fast (Beijing to Shanghai takes 4.5 hours) and comfortable, with spacious seats and free Wi-Fi. Book tickets on the "12306" app (English version available) or through your hotel. Note: High-speed trains have strict security—don’t bring lighters, knives, or large liquids.
• Payment & Language: WeChat Pay and Alipay accept foreign credit cards— link your card in the app and scan QR codes to pay (most shops, restaurants, and taxis don’t accept cash). Download the "Google Translate" app with offline Chinese language packs— it has a camera function that translates menus and signs instantly. Many tourist sites and hotels have English-speaking staff, but learning a few phrases (like "ni hao" = hello, "xie xie" = thank you) will make locals smile. Avoid using gestures like pointing with your index finger—use an open hand instead.
• Accommodation & Local Experiences: Skip big chain hotels and stay in a "hostel" or "homestay"— platforms like Airbnb have many options, and you’ll get to chat with locals. Try these unique experiences: Make dumplings with a Beijing family (book through Airbnb Experiences), learn Sichuan pepper planting in Chengdu, or fish for carp in Zhangjiajie’s streams. It’s the "human touch" that will make your trip unforgettable. When staying in a homestay, bring a small gift from your country (like chocolate or postcards) for the host—it’s a polite gesture.
• Seasonal Tips: Visit Beijing in spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October) for mild weather and blooming flowers. Xi’an is best in autumn (cool and dry). Chengdu is rainy in summer— bring a rain jacket. Zhangjiajie is magical in winter (December–February) when the peaks are covered in snow. Shanghai is great year-round, but avoid summer (hot and humid). Also, check the weather before hiking or visiting outdoor sites—China’s weather can change quickly.
• Cultural Etiquette Overview: Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home (hosts will provide slippers). When taking photos of locals, ask for permission first—especially elders or ethnic minority people. Avoid talking about sensitive topics like politics or religion. If you accidentally bump into someone, say "dui bu qi" (sorry)—locals will appreciate it. Tipping is not common in China—restaurants and hotels include service charges in the bill, so there’s no need to leave extra money.
• China isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. It’s the taste of spicy hot pot shared with strangers, the sound of pandas munching bamboo at dawn, the sight of the Great Wall glowing under the stars, and the warmth of locals teaching you to write your name in calligraphy. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a nature lover, or a theme park fan, China has something for everyone. And the best part? It’s full of surprises— you’ll go expecting ancient palaces and leave talking about the street food vendor who gave you a free dumpling, or the grandma who taught you to play mahjong. So what are you waiting for? Tag your travel buddy, book your ticket, and get ready to fall in love with China. We’re not just waiting— we’re ready to share our stories with you. 🇨🇳