Is this your first trip to China? Read on to learn how to apply for a visa, best place to visit, itinerary advice, transportation advice, and more.
1. Passport and Visa
Please apply for a tourist visa (L visa) at your local Chinese Embassy, Visa Center or online application system. Please ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months and has at least one empty visa page. You will also need to provide your China trip itinerary, hotel reservation, and proof of return air ticket.
Visitors from many countries, such as Singapore, France, Germany, Belgium, etc., can enter China without a visa for up to 30 days.
2. Travel Insurance
International travelers to China are strongly advised to purchase travel insurance that covers medical, accidental, and lost baggage situations.
3. How Long to Stay & Itinerary Ideas
Recommended length of stay for your first trip to China: 10-14 days
Classic China tours Recommendations:
A: Cultural Highlights Tour: 4 days in Beijing, 2 days in Xian, and 3 days in Shanghai
B: Combination of Nature and Culture: 2 days in Shanghai, 3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, 2 days in Xian, and 4 days in Beijing
If your interest lies in nature, a Zhangjiajie tour for 3 to 4 days is also highly recommended to bed added in your first-time China trip.
4. Where to Stay: Hotels
Comfort to luxury hotels (4-5 stars): you can choose from international brands such as Hilton, Marriott, Shangri-La, Novotel Hyatt, and so on.
Mid-range chain hotels and youth hostels/ B&Bs are suitable for travelers with limited budgets and who love to socialize.
5. Transportation
Airplane: suitable for moving between cities over long distances. For example, if you finish your Beijing tours and travel to Guilin, it is recommended that you take an airplane.
High-speed rail: fast and comfortable, high punctuality, suitable for short-distance travel between cities. For example, for Beijing to Xi’an trip, or Xi’an to Chengdu trip, it is recommended that you choose high-speed rail.
City transportation: It is recommended to give priority to subway in big cities. For small cities, if there is no subway, it is recommended to take a taxi or private transfer with a China travel agency.
6. Must-try Food on Your First China Trip
A culinary experience will enrich your trip in China. Here are top dishes to eat in each city.
Beijing Roast Duck
Xi ‘an Lamb and Steamed Bun
Shanghai Xiaolongbao & dim su m
Guilin Rice Noodles
Chengdu Hot Pot
Hangzhou Dongpo Pork
Guangzhou Morning Tea
Yunnan Guoqiao Rice Noodles
7. Best Time to Visit China
North China, such as Beijing and Xi’an, are best visited in April-May and September-October.
East China, such as Shanghai and Hangzhou, are recommended to visit in March-May and September-November. Avoid the rainy season of June-July.
Southwest China (e.g., Yunnan) is suitable for all year round. But the rainy season of June-August is not suitable for trekking on time.
