Practical guides for your first journey to China.
Start with the Forbidden City and the hutongs, then leave a full day for the Great Wall. Beijing rewards a neighborhood-based plan: its imperial sights are extensive and the city is much larger than a map suggests.
Read the storyMatch cities to interests instead of collecting pins.
Read the storyBuild your days around an early panda visit, an unhurried teahouse break and Sichuan food. Central neighborhoods work well as a base; wider Sichuan excursions need their own travel days.
Read the storyBeijing, Xi'an and Shanghai, with an eastern extension.
Read the storyBeijing, Xi'an, Chengdu and Shanghai in one considered route.
Read the storyThree iconic cities, with two dedicated transfer days.
Read the storyThe airport code matters more than a city name.
Read the storyLocal food with practical dietary preparation.
Read the storyStations, passports and enough time before departure.
Read the storyCompatibility, coverage and clear terms before departure.
Read the storyMetro, rail, flights and local rides in one clear plan.
Read the storySeparate everyday costs, intercity tickets and international travel.
Read the storyCities, routes and practical essentials for an independent first visit.
Read the storyNames, addresses, reservations and a flexible rhythm.
Read the storyA calmer first day starts before you leave home.
Read the storyPayment apps, cards and cash, with current rules checked at source.
Read the storyShanghai pairs the Bund's historic facades with Pudong's skyline and the quieter streets around Xuhui and Jing'an. Make time for museums, local breakfasts and a riverfront walk rather than only observation decks.
Read the storyWangfujing, Qianmen, Sanlitun or Dongzhimen.
Read the storyPeople's Square, Jing'an, the Bund and Xuhui compared.
Read the storyThe Terracotta Warriors are the headline, but Xi'an deserves time inside its walls. Pair a museum day in Lintong with city-wall views, neighborhood food and the area around the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda.
Read the story
