8-Day Chinese Gastronomy and Wine Tour
An 8-day gastronomy and wine tour through Shanghai, Chengdu, and Yunnan, showcasing the incredible diversity of Chinese regional cuisine and local beverages.
Popular 15-day tours in China
A comprehensive 15-day tour covering nine major Chinese cities, from Beijing's historical sites to Zhangjiajie's natural wonders and Shenzhen's modern attractions.
5-Day Tour Itinerary in Guangdong Province
A 5-day tour itinerary through Guangdong Province covering Guangzhou, Foshan, Shunde, and Shenzhen, blending cultural immersion with modern city experiences.
Silk Road Journey
A journey along the ancient Silk Road from Xi'an to Urumqi, exploring centuries-old trade routes, Buddhist cave art, and stunning desert landscapes.
Cultural Immersion Journey
Cultural Immersion Itinerary Overview: This extraordinary 12-day journey takes you through three of China's most culturally distinct regions, each offering a unique window into the country's remarkable ethnic and religious diversity. Starting in Lhasa (3,650 meters above sea level), the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism, the route descends to Chengdu in the fertile Sichuan Basin (500 meters), before continuing to Dali in the subtropical Yunnan highlands (1,900 meters). The total overland distance exceeds 2,000 kilometers, traversing landscapes ranging from snow-capped Himalayan peaks to terraced rice paddies and ancient tea forests. Practical Considerations and Health Preparations: Altitude acclimatization is essential for the Lhasa portion of the journey. Visitors should spend at least two days at moderate altitude before ascending to Lhasa and avoid strenuous activity for the first 48 hours. Common altitude sickness symptoms include headache, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Oxygen canisters are available at all hotels and the Lhasa Gonggar Airport medical station. The Tibet Travel Permit, required for all foreign visitors, must be arranged through a licensed tour operator at least 20 days in advance and costs approximately 300-500 yuan including processing fees. Cultural Etiquette and Meaningful Engagement: Each destination on this journey requires cultural sensitivity and awareness.…
144-hour Visa-Free Transit Policy Implemented at More Exit-Entry Ports:Totaling 37 So Far
The National Immigration Administration (NIA) has announced that the airport of Zhengzhou has implemented the 144-hour visa-free transit policy. The permitted stay area for foreign nationals entering China through this airport is the administrative region of Henan Province. Eight additional permitted stay areas (including cities and autonomous prefectures) for foreign nationals entering Yunnan Province under the 144-hour visa-free transit policy have also been designated in addition to Kunming, namely Lijiang, Yuxi, Pu'er, Chuxiong, Dali, Xishuangbanna, Honghe and Wenshan. This time, three exit-entry ports, namely Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport in Henan Province, and Lijiang Sanyi International Airport and the exit-entry port of Mohan Railway Station in Yunnan Province, have been designated to implement the 144-hour visa-free transit policy. All the aforementioned changes have been effective July 15. Background It is reported that, so far, NIA has implemented the 144-hour visa-free transit policy at 37 exit-entry ports in Beijing Municipality, Tianjin Municipality, Shijiazhuang and Qinhuangdao (Hebei Province), Shenyang and Dalian (Liaoning Province), Shanghai Municipality, Nanjing and Lianyungang (Jiangsu Province), Hangzhou, Ningbo, Wenzhou and Zhoushan (Zhejiang Province), Zhengzhou (Henan Province), Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Jieyang (Guangdong Province), Qingdao (Shandong Province), Chongqing Municipality, Chengdu (Sichuan Province), Xi'an (Shaanxi Province), Xiamen (Fujian Province), Wuhan (Hubei Province), Kunming, Lijiang and Xishuangbanna (Yunnan Province), etc. Citizens of 54 countries (including the…
Top 10 things to do when visiting Beijing
1. Visit the Great Wall of China No trip to Beijing is complete without a visit to the Great Wall. The most popular section for tourists is Badaling, but for a more authentic and less crowded experience, consider exploring the Mutianyu or Jinshanling sections. 2. Explore the Forbidden City Overview The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, was the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It houses numerous ancient artifacts and offers a glimpse into China's rich history. 3. Wander Through Tiananmen Square Tiananmen Square is one of the world's largest public squares and serves as the symbolic center of the Chinese government. Take a stroll and admire the iconic architecture, including the Tiananmen Gate and the Great Hall of the People. 4. Discover Hutongs and Local Culture Key Tips Experience traditional Beijing life by wandering through the narrow alleys known as hutongs. You can explore them on foot or by rickshaw, and perhaps enjoy a local meal at a courtyard restaurant. 5. Appreciate Art at the 798 Art Zone The 798 Art Zone is a vibrant area filled with galleries, studios, and shops. It's a great place to immerse yourself in contemporary Chinese art and…
The Best Places to Try Traditional Chinese Cuisine
A list of some of the best places to try traditional Chinese cuisine in various regions of China: 1. Beijing Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant - Known for its crispy skin and tender meat, Peking duck is a must-try dish in Beijing. Quanjude is one of the most famous restaurants specializing in this dish. Dadong Roast Duck Restaurant - Another renowned restaurant for Peking duck, offering a modern twist on the classic recipe. 2. Shanghai Jia Jia Tang Bao - Famous for its xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), these steamed buns filled with pork and broth are a Shanghai specialty. Nanxiang Mantou Dian (Yu Garden) - Located near the historic Yu Garden, this restaurant is well-known for its traditional Shanghainese cuisine, especially its xiaolongbao. 3. Sichuan (Chengdu) Chen Mapo Tofu - This restaurant is named after the dish that made it famous, mapo tofu, a spicy dish with soft tofu, Sichuan pepper, and fermented black beans. Lai Tangyuan - A popular spot for traditional Sichuanese snacks, including tangyuan (sweet glutinous rice balls). 4. Guangdong (Cantonese) Tim Ho Wan - Known as the world's cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant, Tim Ho Wan is famous for its dim sum, such as barbecued pork buns and steamed shrimp dumplings. Lian Xing Lou - A Cantonese restaurant that specializes in roast…
Ten travel tips for visiting China
Prepare for the Visa Process: Ensure you have the necessary visa for entry into China. The process can take several weeks, so apply well in advance of your trip. Learn Some Basic Mandarin: While many people in major cities speak English, knowing a few basic phrases in Mandarin will be very helpful, especially when traveling outside of tourist areas. Understand the Currency: Familiarize yourself with the Chinese currency, the Renminbi (RMB), also known as the yuan. Keep small bills and coins handy for small purchases. Use Mobile Payment Apps: Mobile payment systems like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used in China. Consider setting up an account if you plan to stay for a while. Stay Connected: Internet access can be challenging due to the Great Firewall. Download a reputable VPN before you arrive, and consider getting a local SIM card for better connectivity. Be Prepared for Crowds: Popular tourist sites, especially during holidays and weekends, can get extremely crowded. Plan your visits accordingly to avoid peak times. Pack Smartly: Check the weather forecast for the region you are visiting and pack accordingly. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and traditions. For…
A Guide to Chinese Festivals and Celebrations
Chinese festivals are steeped in tradition and history, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of China. From the colorful lanterns of the Lantern Festival to the fireworks of the Spring Festival, each celebration has its unique customs and rituals. Here’s a guide to some of the most important Chinese festivals and celebrations. 1. Spring Festival (Chinese New Year) Date: January 21st to February 20th, based on the lunar calendar. Significance: The most important festival in China, marking the beginning of the lunar new year. Traditions: Family reunions, red decorations, firecrackers, and gift-giving. People also eat special foods like dumplings and fish, which symbolize wealth and surplus. 2. Lantern Festival Date: 15th day of the first lunar month. Significance: Marks the end of the Spring Festival celebrations. Traditions: Lantern displays, riddles, and eating tangyuan (sweet glutinous rice balls). It’s also a time when people release lanterns into the sky. 3. Qingming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Day) Date: April 4th or 5th. Significance: A day for remembering and honoring ancestors. Traditions: Visiting gravesites, cleaning tombs, and placing flowers and food offerings. Families often go on outings and fly kites. 4. Dragon Boat Festival Date: 5th day of the fifth lunar month. Significance: Commemorates the death of the patriotic poet…
A Foreigner's Guide to Exploring Shanghai
Three Days of Fun in the Heart of China Overview Day 1: The Heart of the City Top Attractions My Shanghai adventure kicked off with a visit to the vibrant Nanjing Road, one of the busiest shopping districts in the world. The pedestrian street was lined with shops selling everything from high-end fashion to souvenirs. I also stopped by the Peace Hotel, a historic landmark known for its Art Deco architecture, and enjoyed a cup of tea while admiring the views of the Huangpu River. Top Attractions In the afternoon, I explored the Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum, which provided a poignant insight into the city's role as a safe haven during World War II. Later, I took a relaxing boat tour along the Huangpu River, marveling at the juxtaposition of old and new architecture. Travel Tips Day 2: Cultural Immersion Top Attractions The next day, I spent time at the Shanghai Art Museum, which showcased contemporary Chinese art alongside international exhibitions. The museum was a treasure trove of creativity and inspiration. Top Attractions Afterward, I visited the Jade Buddha Temple, a tranquil oasis in the middle of the city. I participated in a meditation session led by a monk, which…