China Tourism: Exploring the Ancient Land of Dragons

Updated On: October 16, 2024
8 min, Read

About China

China, covering the entire east Asia and encompassing everything from the concrete canyons of Beijing or Shanghai to the fantastical landforms of Zhangjiajie, is tailored to suit every taste. This country is one of the oldest countries in the world with an impressive cultural heritage. In China, tourism, culture, and old traditions blend well with modern culture, thereby interrelating the two in a harmonious manner.

China presents a variety of climates. The ideal climate prevailing in various locations makes the spring season—April to May—as well as the autumn season—September to October—the most suitable for tourism. Even if you’re hiking the Great Wall on a bright spring day or admiring the colours of autumn, these seasons are ideal because of their pleasant weather and colourful scenery.

When walking through China, you will feel the traditions surrounding you. Every province has its own cultural narrative complete with local festivities, food, and paintings; Beijing has a historic feel to it while Shanghai’s skyline looks futuristic, and Xi’an tells the story of emperors through its Terracotta Army.

The Great Wall runs through the northern parts of China, and this is where hikers can embark on real adventures, commuting through ancient civilisations. Imposing gates of the ancient chariot of power—'The Forbidden City'—in Beijing symbolises the country’s imperialist past, while the developing skyline of Shanghai reflects the growing giant of this nation.

Besides the cities, China offers wonderful geographical features that are particularly attractive to adventure lovers. Sail through and see the Three Gorges; take a trek through Zhangjiajie National Forest Park; and wonder at the sights that were used in the movie Avatar.

Chinese food does not require any form of introduction; however, getting a taste of the food right from China is a completely different ball game. Taste Peking duck in Beijing, where it was invented, or savour Sichuan hot pot in Chendgu, where it originated from.

Postmodern art has adopted new dimensions and accumulated a fan base through Beijing’s 798 Art Zone and M50 of Shanghai. These communities not only feature experimental art but also illustrate China’s progression in the increasing sophistication of the integration of classic art and modern technology.

Best Time to Visit China

Peak Season

Months: April–May
What to Expect: During these spring months, China’s temperature is moderate in the majority of the country, thus affording tourists the best opportunity to go sightseeing. The tourist sites are usually congested to the brim, so it is advisable to pre-book.
What You'll Love: The environment is quite pleasant due to blossoming trees and shrubs, and the warm weather makes it ideal for trekking on the Great Wall and strolling along the city’s streets.

Moderate Season

Months: September–October
What to Expect: The autumn season is marked by less crowds, and the weather is cooler too. If you are interested in travelling somewhere with a good climate but not too hot, it is the best time to visit.
What You'll Love: The scenery during the autumn is colourful, especially for areas such as the Yellow Mountains, which present good photography opportunities.

Off Season

Months: November–March
What to Expect: China’s winter is quite severe, mainly in the northern region, and therefore there are fewer visiting tourists.
What You'll Love: Fewer tourists means less money spent travelling around. You’ll also get to feel the atmosphere of the Chinese New Year and the amazing Harbin’s Ice Festival.

Month	Average Temperature Range
January–March	-2-10°C
April-June	10-30°C
July-September	18-35°C
October-December	-5-23°C

Places to Visit in China

China has a number of great sights to offer. These are both beautiful and historical, hence making any tourist’s visit to China complete in their bid to explore the rich culture and history of this country.

Great Wall of China: Witness the grandeur of this ancient marvel that stretches beyond the horizon. Hike along its rugged paths and witness stunning panoramic vistas.
Forbidden City: Step into the world of ancient Chinese emperors. This palatial complex in Beijing houses artefacts that are several centuries old.
Terracotta Army: Uncover the mysteries of these meticulously detailed sculptures guarding the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang in Xi'an.
Yangtze River Cruise: Sail through dramatic gorges and lush landscapes on one of China’s most scenic waterways.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Explore this geological wonder with its towering sandstone pillars; it’s easy to see why it inspired major motion picture landscapes.
Shanghai's Bund: Stroll along this famous waterfront with beautiful views of one of the world's most futuristic skylines juxtaposed against historical colonial buildings.
Jiuzhaigou Valley: Wander through this fairy-tale national park with multi-coloured lakes, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
Potala Palace: Visit Tibet’s iconic landmark standing proudly above Lhasa—a marvellous representation of Tibetan architecture and religious devotion.

How to Reach China

China is easily accessible with major international airports and offers direct flight connectivity from several cities in India, such as New Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.

By Air: Major hubs like Beijing Capital International Airport connect globally, including direct links with India’s largest airports.
By Road: Travellers can also enter through border crossings overland from India via routes through Myanmar. Before embarking, ensure all visa requirements are in place.
By Rail: Although more limited, there are rail options available connecting from India through border passes.

Things to Do in China

China, a blend of ancient traditions and modern innovations, offers a variety of things to do for every traveler.

Walk the Great Wall: Experience thrill and awe as you travel across sections like Mutianyu. You will be greeted with fewer people and stunning views.
Explore Shanghai: From shopping on Nanjing Road to relishing street food at Yuyuan Garden, Shanghai offers a variety of cultural experiences.
Attend a Tea Ceremony: Participate in this age-old tradition that reflects China’s deep cultural reverence for tea at their traditional tea houses.
Visit Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: A chance to see Pandas up close and learn about conservation efforts dedicated towards their protection.
Take a Tai Chi Class: Be a part of the local culture by starting your morning with Tai Chi at public parks. These are open to individuals of all ages.
Cruise on the Li River: Glide past limestone karsts dotting lush greenery—a serene escape that captures the essence of Guangxi’s charming scenery.
Sample Local Cuisine: Dive into flavours from dim sum in Hong Kong, spicy Sichuan dishes in Chengdu, or Peking duck from its birthplace, Beijing.

Popular Foodie Destinations in China

Here are some of the best destinations where you can feast on traditional Chinese dishes:

Din Tai Fung (Shanghai): This place is famous for its xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), featuring delicate skin, a rich filling, and flavourful broth. Beside this, you will also be treated to a variety of Taiwanese-inspired dishes.
TRB Hutong (Beijing): Set in a restored traditional courtyard, this restaurant is a blend of contemporary European cuisine and historic charm and offers high-quality dishes and an extensive wine list in an intimate atmosphere.
Lost Heaven (Beijing and Shanghai): Celebrating the bold and aromatic flavours of the Yunnan province, this vibrant restaurant features dishes like spicy chicken and mint salad.
Lung King Heen (Hong Kong): This three-Michelin-star restaurant is located in the Four Seasons Hotel and offers delectable Cantonese cuisine with stunning views of Victoria Harbour. You can try dishes like dim sum, fresh seafood, and signature roasted meats.

Frequently Asked Questions About China

What is the best time of year to visit China for cherry blossom viewing?

The ideal period to view cherry blossoms in China is during early spring, i.e., between late March and early April. This is when cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Wuhan are adorned with pink and white blossoms, providing picturesque scenes at spots like Yuyuantan Park in Beijing and the East Lake in Wuhan.

Can you recommend any vegetarian-friendly dining options in major Chinese cities?

Major Chinese cities, such as Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou, offer numerous vegetarian restaurants that cater to diverse tastes. In Shanghai, try "Godly," which has been serving delicious vegetarian meals since the 1920s. Beijing's "King’s Joy," located near Yonghegong Lama Temple, offers creative vegetarian dishes in a beautiful setting.

How should I dress when visiting religious sites in China?

When visiting religious sites in China, like Buddhist temples or Taoist shrines, it's recommended to dress modestly. Avoid wearing sleeveless tops and shorts, and opt for clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Additionally, some temples require visitors to remove their shoes before entering certain areas, so wearing easily removable footwear can be practical.

What are some essential Mandarin phrases I should know for my trip to China?

Knowing a few basic Mandarin phrases can enhance your travel experience in China. Key phrases include "Nǐ hǎo" (Hello), "Xièxiè" (Thank you), and "Duōshǎo qián?" (How much does it cost?) and "Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?" (Where is the bathroom?).

Is tap water safe to drink in China?

When in China, it is advisable to avoid drinking tap water. Instead, opt for bottled water or bring water purification tablets if you prefer to minimise plastic usage.

What public transportation options are available for tourists within major Chinese cities like Beijing or Shanghai?

Major Chinese cities boast extensive and efficient public transport networks. In Beijing and Shanghai, the metro systems are expansive and user-friendly, with signage and announcements in both Mandarin and English. Buses are plentiful and inexpensive, but they can be more challenging to navigate without knowing the local language.

Are there any specific health vaccinations needed before travelling to China?

While there are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter China, it's recommended to be up-to-date with routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and your yearly flu shot. Moreover, vaccines for hepatitis A and typhoid should be taken as the diseases are more widespread in Asia.

What are some must-visit cultural heritage sites in China?

China is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Must-visit sites include the Great Wall of China near Beijing, the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, the classical gardens of Suzhou, and the scenic karst landscape of Guilin.

How do I access money while travelling in China?? Are international credit cards widely accepted?

Major international credit cards are generally accepted in large hotels, upscale restaurants, and international shops within metropolitan areas like Shanghai or Beijing. However, carrying some cash is advisable, as smaller vendors may not accept cards. ATMs are widespread, but check with your bank about overseas transaction fees.

What should I pack if visiting China during the winter months?

Winters can be bitterly cold, especially in the northern parts of China, including Beijing.

Pack warm clothing, including thermal layers, a heavy coat or down jacket, hats, gloves, and scarves. Additionally, sturdy waterproof boots are useful for navigating snowy, icy streets. Ensure you also have moisturiser and lip balm to combat the dry winter air.

11: Where is the best place to experience nightlife in Shanghai or Beijing?

Shanghai is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, which features everything from glamorous rooftop bars like Bar Rouge to upscale clubs like Noiz. If you’re looking for something quieter, craft beer pubs like Speak Low provide a relaxing environment. Meanwhile, Sanlitun District in Beijing offers eclectic mix bars and live music venues that cater to diverse tastes.

12: Are English-language tours available at the Great Wall?

Yes, various sections of the Great Wall offer English-language tours. These guided tours are helpful in understanding the historical significance of the structure.