【2024 China Travel Guide】China Popular Attractions & Tickets, Trip to China Cost

China Travel | Basic Info

• Currency: The Renminbi (RMB or CNY), commonly referred to as the Chinese yuan, is the official currency. The exchange rates provided are accurate as of the latest data (2024 July) but are subject to change.
• Time Difference: China operates on a single time zone, GMT+8, despite its vast geographical spread. This can create significant time differences with various parts of the world, such as the USA and Europe.
• Population and Language: China is the most populous country in the world. Mandarin is the official language, and English is increasingly spoken, particularly among the young population in major cities.

China Travel | Travel Tips You Should Know

1. Trip to China Cost

👇Estimated Daily Average Expenditure👇

2. Cost of Living in China

【Restaurant】

【Grocery Prices】

from topasiatour

3. Climate and What to Wear

China's climate varies significantly across its vast territory.

The north experiences dry, windy conditions with cold winters and hot summers, while the south, below the Yangtze River dividing line, enjoys a milder, humid subtropical climate with ample rainfall.

The east, south, and southwest are generally warm and rainy throughout the year, though the southwest's mountainous regions can see cooler temperatures.

4. Customs and Taboos

The cultural norms in China can vary widely between regions, but overall, the atmosphere is welcoming and accommodating.

• Respect local dietary customs; for instance, pork is avoided in predominantly Muslim northwest.
• Adapt eating habits to local cuisine: rice predominates in the south, while noodles and dumplings are popular in the north. Southwest (e.g., Yunnan, Sichuan): Spicy food is prevalent. 🥵

The local people are incredibly open and helpful, always ready to engage. The food here is absolutely phenomenal, with a diverse range of delicious options available around the clock. 😋

5. Emergency Contacts

During my five years living in China, I discovered firsthand that it is one of the safest countries in the world. I, as a woman, felt incredibly safe wandering the streets and eating at local restaurants late at night(even 3 A.M.).

I hardly ever needed emergency services, but it’s always good to have those contacts on hand, just in case. It's reassuring to know that help is just a call away, should you ever need it:

Remember, while the likelihood of needing these services is low given the general safety of the country, it’s always best to be prepared.

China Travel | Top 20 China Attractions

Here’s my take on the top 20 must-visit attractions in various China cities, based on my five-year journey through this wonderful land.

Beijing

• The Great Wall at Badaling My visits to the Great Wall at Badaling were always awe-inspiring. This section, meticulously restored, offers a tangible connection to China’s ancient strategic defenses. Walking the wall provides sweeping views of the rugged landscape that are especially breathtaking during the fall when the leaves are a riot of color. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the climb can be steep but is incredibly rewarding. For a unique experience, try visiting during the winter when the wall is blanketed in snow – it’s a quieter time and the views are pristine.

• The Palace Museum The Forbidden City was the imperial palace for nearly 500 years and is a profound testament to Chinese architectural grandeur and cultural depth. Roaming through its vast courtyards and palatial halls, I always felt transported back in time. Don’t miss the Hall of Supreme Harmony for its stunning interiors. For a taste of the local cuisine, stop by one of the tea houses inside for some traditional Chinese tea and snacks.

• Temple of Heaven The Temple of Heaven is a unique altar for emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Here, people worship the heavens, ask for rain, and pray for a better harvest. It is a famous ancient building in China. The Temple of Heaven is divided into two parts: the Inner Altar and the Outer Altar. Well-known structures such as the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest and the Echo Wall are located in the Inner Altar. While visiting the Temple of Heaven, tourists get to experience the grand praying ceremony of ancient emperors and observe the ingenious designs such as the Echo Wall and the Triple Sound Stones. The wisdom of the ancient craftsmen will not fail to impress you.

• Summer Palace The Summer Palace is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design. The harmony between the Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake makes for a serene escape from the city’s hustle. Renting a paddle boat to explore the lake is delightful, and you can enjoy lotus flowers in full bloom if you visit in the summer. The small eateries around the palace offer delicious duck and noodle dishes.

• Universal Studios Beijing Universal Studios Beijing brings a slice of Hollywood to China with themed areas like Harry Potter’s magical world and Jurassic Park's thrilling landscapes. The rides are top-notch, with the Decepticoaster being a personal favorite for its adrenaline-pumping action. Dining here is a pleasure with options ranging from classic American fast food to gourmet Chinese dishes, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Shanghai

• Shanghai Disneyland Shanghai Disneyland is a fantasy land where East meets West. The park's unique attractions like the Garden of the Twelve Friends merge Disney magic with Chinese zodiac signs. Don’t miss the TRON Lightcycle Power Run, a futuristic motorcycle rollercoaster that’s as thrilling as it is unique.

• The Bund The Bund is Shanghai’s historic riverfront walk, lined with colonial-era buildings that tell the story of the city’s glamorous past. Walking this stretch provides a contrast with the modern skyscrapers across the Huangpu River that light up beautifully at night. The waterfront restaurants here offer some of the best Shanghai-style cuisine, particularly the fresh seafood.

• Oriental Pearl Tower The iconic Oriental Pearl Tower offers stunning city views from its revolving restaurant and observation decks. The history museum located at its base offers an intriguing glimpse into Shanghai’s development. Dining in the revolving restaurant gives you a 360-degree view of the cityscape while enjoying a mix of Chinese and international dishes.

• Yu Garden Yu Garden is located in central Shanghai’s Huangpu District, on a spot within the boundaries of former Old City. It is the only classic Chinese garden in the downtown area and was once a private garden for Ming Dynasty officials. The garden covers roughly two hectares and contains various rambling pathways, hidden pavilions, and classic flora. It is a good place to escape the bustling modern city outside. Take note of the hundreds of plaques and inscriptions written by well-known individuals, as well as the park’s collection of stone carvings. Yuyuan Bazaar, located nearby, is good to browse for antiques and souvenirs.

Hangzhou

• West Lake West Lake in Hangzhou is enveloped in myth and beauty. The lake and its surrounding gardens are wonderfully peaceful for cycling or walking, with occasional stops at teahouses for authentic Dragon Well (Longjing) tea. The historical tales of the White Snake add a layer of mystique to landmarks like the Broken Bridge, making a boat ride here an enchanting experience. West Lake has been immortalized in countless poems and paintings throughout Chinese history, most notably by poets like Su Dongpo. It is said that Su Dongpo, while serving as a local governor, initiated dredging of the lake which inspired the creation of Su Causeway. The poets of ancient China would often ride boats on the lake, composing poetry inspired by its tranquil beauty.

• Lingyin Temple, also known as the Temple of the Soul's Retreat, is one of the largest and most famous Buddhist temples in China. Nestled in a long, narrow valley between Feilai Peak and North Peak, the temple offers a serene escape from the bustling city. As you wander through its many halls and pavilions, you'll encounter a rich display of Buddhist statuary, including a 20-meter high statue of Sakyamuni Buddha carved into the rockface. The surrounding area, filled with smaller caves and religious rock carvings, tells the story of the temple's centuries-long importance to Chinese spirituality and art.

• Xixi National Wetland Park is a rare urban wetland known for its lush landscapes and rich biodiversity. It's a place where you can explore waterways on traditional wooden boats, observing local wildlife and visiting cultural relics like the Plum Villa and the Autumn Snow Temple. The park is also famous for hosting the Dragon Boat Festival and the reeds harvest, which provide insights into local customs and traditions.

Xi'an

• The Terracotta Army The Terracotta Army in Xi'an is a site that's both mystifying and profound. Discovered by local farmers in 1974, this archaeological marvel comprises over 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses, and 150 cavalry horses, all life-sized, guarding the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Each statue is uniquely detailed, revealing the incredible craftsmanship of ancient Chinese artisans. When visiting, take a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical context and the individual stories of the figures, and don't miss the on-site museum where you can see two bronze chariots in incredible detail.

• Xi'an City Wall The ancient city wall of Xi'an, one of the oldest and best-preserved in China, offers a remarkable glimpse into the past. Rent a bike and take a leisurely ride around the entire circumference of the wall, which provides panoramic views of the city inside and the modern developments outside. The South Gate, particularly at sunset, offers picturesque scenes. Local vendors near the gates often sell delicious Shaanxi snacks, such as rou jia mo (Chinese hamburger) and liang pi (cold noodles).

Guilin

• Li River Cruise A cruise down the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo presents some of the most spectacular natural landscapes China has to offer. The karst mountains lining the river have inspired Chinese landscape painters for centuries. The journey reveals small villages and bamboo groves against the backdrop of towering limestone peaks. Opt for a bamboo raft for a more intimate experience with nature. Once in Yangshuo, explore the local markets to try local specialties like beer fish and Guilin rice noodles.

• Two Rivers and Four Lakes Take a night cruise on the Two Rivers and Four Lakes to enjoy the mountain and water scenery of Shanhu Lake, Ronghu Lake, Guihu Lake, Mulong Lake, Lijiang River, and Taohua River in the city, visit the scenic belt in the core of Guilin City, and experience the water system around the city that is comparable to the water city of Venice.

Zhangjiajie

• Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Known for its awe-inspiring pillar-like rock formations that inspired the Hallelujah Mountains in James Cameron’s Avatar, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park offers breathtaking beauty that feels almost surreal. The Bailong Elevator, built into the side of a cliff, is one of the fastest and highest outdoor elevators in the world and offers quick access to fantastic viewpoints. For the adventurous, walk the glass bridge over Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, not for the faint-hearted but unforgettable.

• Tianmen Mountain Tianmen Mountain, notable for its massive natural arch, is accessed via one of the world's longest cable car rides, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Once at the top, walk the path with sections of glass floor alongside the cliff face. The experience of walking the 'Skywalk' is thrilling. Don’t miss the 999 steps leading to the arch, known as the Stairway to Heaven.

Chengdu

• Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding The Chengdu Panda Base is a sanctuary for giant pandas and a fantastic place to learn about conservation efforts. Watching these majestic animals in a setting that mimics their natural habitat is both heartwarming and educational. The onsite cafes offer Sichuan snacks, providing a spicy kick to start your morning.

Xiamen

• Gulangyu Island is a tiny island located on the estuary of the Chiu-lung River, facing the city of Xiamen. It is a Unesco World Heritage Site that used to be an important window for Sino-foreign exchanges during the 19th and 20th century. The island is a popular attraction for architecture enthusiasts, providing a mixture of different architectural styles including Traditional Southern Fujian Style, Western Classical Revival Style and Veranda Colonial Style.