Planning a trip to China for your next vacation? This guide will help you to know the best route to go to China right now. Read about activities and landmarks across China, visa traits and 144-hour visa, practical travel tips, and how to stay connected in this country. Let’s go!

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Top Itineraries Across China

Classic Beijing and Shanghai Experience (7-10 Days)

10 days in China will give you a relaxing traveling pace. Start your trip in Beijing, one of the world’s greatest cities and home of many of China’s big-ticket attractions. Here you can explore iconic sites like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Summer Palace. Then, travel to Shanghai by a high-speed train ride to see the Bund, visit the serene Yu Garden, and the vibrant shopping streets of Nanjing Road. This is the best route to go to China right now if you are a first-time visitor wanting a blend of historical landmarks and modern cityscapes.

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Cultural and Scenic Wonders of Southern China (10-14 Days)

For nature lovers and those interested in traditional Chinese culture, this is the best route to go to China right now. Begin in Guilin, where you can marvel at the picture-perfect karst-limestone peaks that offer an extraordinary backdrop. Take a cruise along the Li River to Yangshuo, and enjoy graceful bamboo groves, rice paddies, and lumbering water buffalo in the river. Continue to Chengdu to visit the Giant Panda Research Base and then head to Zhangjiajie to experience the breathtaking, Avatar-inspired floating mountains.

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In-Depth Exploration of Ancient China (14-21 Days)

For history enthusiasts and those seeking a deep dive into China’s ancient past, this is the best route to go to China right now. Start in Xi’an to discover the secrets of the Terracotta Warriors, then move on to Luoyang to visit the Longmen Grottoes. Conclude the journey by visiting Pingyao, one of China’s best-preserved ancient walled cities.

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The Silk Road Adventure (14-18 Days)

This itinerary is the best route to China right now, ideal for adventurous travelers interested in history, culture, and diverse landscapes. Begin your trip to Xi’an, where the ancient Silk Road route began. Then, move through Dunhuang to see the Mogao Caves, then travel to Turpan to see the Flaming Mountains and Grape Valley. Finish your trip to Kashgar to experience the Sunday Market.

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Majestic Landscapes of Yunnan Province (10-14 Days)

Start the itinerary exploring the Old Town of Lijiang and see handicrafts made of silver, leather, and textiles. Then, embark on a trek through the Tiger Leaping Gorge. After that, visit the ancient city of Dali, rich in history and culture. Finish the trip with a visit to the mystical Shangri-La region. This itinerary is ideal for off-the-beaten-path experiences and breathtaking natural beauty. It is also the best route to go to China right now.

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Modern and Traditional Hong Kong & Macau with Southern China (7-10 Days)

Start your itinerary in Hong Kong with a mix of modern skyscrapers and traditional temples. Take a day trip to Macau to explore its Portuguese heritage. Finally, visit the UNESCO-listed sites in Guangzhou. This itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking a blend of modernity and tradition in Southern China. This is the best route to go to China right now.

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Visa Requirements and China’s Entry Process

Planning a trip to China? You must secure a visa before traveling. Apply for a tourist visa (L-Visa) at a Chinese embassy or consulate. Also, complete a form and provide a passport, recent photo, and proof of travel arrangements.

China also offers a 144-hour visa-free transit policy for international travelers from certain countries. This is an ideal option for those with a third-country destination and the need to cross China. Travelers can stay in select Chinese cities for up to 144 hours (six days) without a visa, provided they are transiting to a third country.

Travel Tips for Experiencing Chinese Culture

Here are some tips to help you navigate the cultural landscape:

• Greetings: A nod or slight bow is common, especially in formal settings. Handshakes are also accepted, but it’s best to wait for the other person to initiate.
• Gift-Giving: If you’re invited to someone’s home, bringing a small gift, like fruit or tea, is appreciated. Avoid giving clocks or sharp objects, as they are considered bad luck.
• Basic Phrases: Learning a few basic Mandarin phrases, such as “Ni hao” (Hello), “Xie xie” (Thank you), and “Bu yong xie” (You’re welcome), can go a long way in showing respect and facilitating simple interactions.
• Translation Apps: Carry a translation app or phrasebook to help with complex conversations.
• Personal Space: China’s dense population means that personal space can be limited, especially in public places. Patience and understanding are key.

Health and Safety Precautions for Travelers

Here’s some important advice to keep you safe and healthy:

• Tap water in China may not be safe to drink. Drink only bottled water with intact seals.
• Check if you need any vaccinations before traveling. Common recommendations include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and sometimes Rabies or Japanese Encephalitis, depending on your travel plans.
• Increased security measures are in place in Xinjiang. Be ready to show a photo ID if asked.
• Be aware of common tourist scams, such as being overcharged in taxis or invited to expensive tea ceremonies. Always agree on prices beforehand and use official taxis or ride-hailing apps.
• Familiarize yourself with the local emergency numbers. In China, dial 110 for police, 120 for medical emergencies, and 119 for fire. Keep your embassy’s contact information handy as well.

Getting Around: Transportation Options Across China

Navigating China’s vast landscape can be seamless if you understand the various transportation options. Here’s a guide to using trains, buses, and taxis effectively:

• High-Speed Trains: This is one of the most efficient ways to travel between major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.

• Regular Trains: For a more scenic journey or budget travel, regular trains are available. These are slower but offer Sleeper Classes for overnight travel.

• Long-Distance Buses: For regions not accessible by train, long-distance buses are a reliable option. They connect cities, towns, and remote areas, offering a chance to see the countryside.

• City Buses: In cities, local buses are a cost-effective way to get around. They are cheap, but signage is often only in Chinese, so it’s helpful to know your route in advance.

• Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Chinese cities and a convenient way to travel, especially if you’re unfamiliar with public transport. Downloading a taxi app like Didi Chuxing (China’s version of Uber) is recommended. It allows you to book rides, pay via the app, and avoid language barriers.

Best Time to Visit China Based on Weather and Events

The best time to visit China is during spring or fall. The weather tends to be warm and dry during these periods, in contrast to the bitterly cold winters and hot, humid summers experienced in much of the country.

In spring, visit Beijing and the Yangtze River. Enjoy the vibrant greenery and blooming flowers along the riverbanks. The Qingming Festival is held in April. This traditional festival involves visiting ancestors’ graves and enjoying nature for a unique cultural experience.

In autumn, you can visit Beijing, Xi’an, and the Jiuzhaigou Valley, famous for its autumn foliage. The Mid-Autumn Festival is a major holiday between September and October, celebrated with mooncakes, lantern displays, and family gatherings. Also in October is the Chongyang Festival. It’s a time to appreciate chrysanthemums and pay respect to elders.

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