Essential Apps

10 Essential Apps for Self-Guided Travel in China#

In China, daily life and consumption almost entirely rely on mobile payments. Whether it’s dining, transportation, or shopping, almost everything can be done cashlessly. However, to prevent problems with your phone or network, it’s recommended to exchange some currency and carry a small amount of RMB as a backup. This article recommends essential apps to download for travel in China, making your trip more convenient and smooth!

Central China Travel Guide

Central China Travel Guide#

Central China includes Henan, Hubei, and Hunan provinces, located in central China with rich historical culture and natural landscapes.

Henan#

Highlights#

  • Historic Sites: Ancient capitals like Luoyang, Kaifeng, Anyang
  • Cultural Sites: Longmen Grottoes, Yinxu, Shaolin Temple
  • Cuisine: Henan Cuisine, Stewed Noodles, Hulatang

Key Attractions#

  • Longmen Grottoes: UNESCO World Heritage, treasure house of Chinese stone carving art
  • Shaolin Temple: Birthplace of Zen Buddhism, origin of Kung Fu
  • Mount Yuntai: Global Geopark, essence of Taihang Mountains
  • Yinxu: UNESCO World Heritage, ruins of Shang Dynasty capital

Hubei#

Highlights#

  • Yangtze River Culture: Three Gorges, Yichang, Jingzhou
  • Historic Cities: Wuhan, Xiangyang, Jingzhou
  • Cuisine: Hubei Cuisine, Hot Dry Noodles, Duck Neck

Key Attractions#

  • Three Gorges Dam: World’s largest hydroelectric project
  • Yellow Crane Tower: One of the three great towers south of the Yangtze
  • Mount Wudang: UNESCO World Heritage, Taoist mountain
  • Shennongjia: UNESCO World Natural Heritage, mysterious primeval forest

Hunan#

Highlights#

  • Natural Scenery: Zhangjiajie, Phoenix Ancient City, Yueyang Tower
  • Red Tourism: Shaoshan, Huaminglou, Mount Jinggang
  • Cuisine: Hunan Cuisine, Stinky Tofu, Sugar Oil Baba

Key Attractions#

  • Zhangjiajie: UNESCO World Natural Heritage, strange peaks and rocks
  • Phoenix Ancient City: Most beautiful small city in China
  • Yueyang Tower: One of the three great towers south of the Yangtze
  • Shaoshan: Mao Zedong’s hometown, sacred site of red tourism

Travel Tips#

  • Best Time: Spring and autumn are pleasant, suitable for travel
  • Transportation: Well-developed high-speed rail network, convenient connections between cities
    • Wuhan-Changsha: About 1.5 hours by high-speed rail
    • Wuhan-Zhengzhou: About 2 hours by high-speed rail
  • Special Experiences: Experience historic sites, taste authentic cuisine, experience natural wonders
  • Useful Links:
    • Ctrip - Hotel and attraction ticket booking
    • Mafengwo - Travel guides and travelogues
    • Dianping - Restaurant and attraction reviews

East China Travel Guide

East China Travel Guide#

East China includes Shanghai, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Anhui, Fujian, Jiangxi, and Shandong, forming one of China’s most economically developed and culturally prosperous regions.

Shanghai#

Highlights#

  • International Metropolis: The Bund, Oriental Pearl Tower, Lujiazui Financial District
  • Historical Architecture: Shikumen, Old Western-style Houses, Yu Garden
  • Cuisine: Xiaolongbao, Shengjian, Benbang Cuisine

Key Attractions#

  • The Bund: International Architecture Expo along the Huangpu River
    • Free admission, recommended to visit at night for the night view
    • Can take Huangpu River cruise
  • Oriental Pearl Tower: Landmark of Shanghai
  • Yu Garden: Ming Dynasty classical garden
  • Disneyland: First Disney theme park in mainland China

Jiangsu#

Highlights#

  • Water Towns: Suzhou Gardens, Zhouzhuang, Tongli
  • Historic Cities: Nanjing, Yangzhou, Wuxi
  • Cuisine: Su-style Dim Sum, Huaiyang Cuisine, Nanjing Salted Duck

Key Attractions#

Zhejiang#

Highlights#

  • Water Towns: Wuzhen, Xitang, Nanxun
  • Natural Scenery: West Lake, Thousand Island Lake, Yandang Mountain
  • Cuisine: Hangbang Cuisine, Longjing Shrimp, West Lake Fish in Sweet Sour Sauce

Key Attractions#

  • West Lake: UNESCO World Heritage, paradise on earth
    • Free admission, can walk or cycle around the lake
    • Recommended attractions: Broken Bridge, Leifeng Pagoda, Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, etc.
    • West Lake Official Website - Tour guide
  • Wuzhen: China’s Last Water Town
    • Wuzhen Official Website - Ticket and accommodation booking
    • Divided into East and West sections, recommended to stay in West section for night view
  • Mount Putuo: Guanyin’s sacred site, Buddhist kingdom on the sea

Anhui#

Highlights#

  • Hui Architecture: Hongcun, Xidi, Huizhou Ancient City
  • Famous Mountains: Huangshan, Jiuhuashan, Tianzhushan
  • Cuisine: Anhui Cuisine, Stinky Mandarin Fish, Hairy Tofu

Key Attractions#

  • Huangshan (Yellow Mountain): UNESCO World Natural and Cultural Heritage, strange pines, grotesque rocks, sea of clouds, hot springs
    • Huangshan Official Website - Ticket and cable car booking
    • Recommended to book 1-7 days in advance, avoid holidays
    • Recommended 2-3 days visit, can see sunrise and sea of clouds
  • Hongcun: UNESCO World Heritage, village in the painting
    • Hongcun Official Website - Ticket and accommodation information
    • Recommended to stay in the ancient village, experience Hui architecture
  • Huizhou Ancient City: Well-preserved Ming and Qing ancient city
    • Can visit Huizhou Prefecture Office, Xuguo Memorial Archway, etc.
    • Recommended to visit together with Hongcun and Xidi

Fujian#

Highlights#

  • Tulou Architecture: Yongding Tulou, Nanjing Tulou
  • Island Scenery: Gulangyu, Pingtan, Meizhou Island
  • Cuisine: Fujian Cuisine, Shaxian Snacks, Buddha Jumps Over the Wall

Key Attractions#

  • Gulangyu: UNESCO World Heritage, garden on the sea
    • Gulangyu Official Website - Ticket and ferry information
    • Recommended to book ferry tickets in advance, avoid holidays
    • Recommended 1-2 days for in-depth visit, experience slow life
  • Yongding Tulou: UNESCO World Heritage, Hakka dwellings
  • Mount Wuyi: UNESCO World Natural and Cultural Heritage
    • Mount Wuyi Official Website - Ticket and tour information
    • Recommended 2-3 days visit, experience Nine-bend River rafting and tea tasting

Jiangxi#

Highlights#

  • Famous Mountains: Mount Lushan, Mount Sanqing, Mount Longhu
  • Red Tourism: Mount Jinggang, Nanchang, Ruijin
  • Cuisine: Jiangxi Cuisine, Earthen Pot Soup, Rice Noodles

Key Attractions#

  • Mount Lushan: UNESCO World Heritage, the most beautiful mountain in the world
  • Mount Sanqing: UNESCO World Natural Heritage, Taoist mountain
  • Mount Jinggang: Sacred site of Chinese revolution

Shandong#

Highlights#

  • Historic Sites: Mount Tai, Qufu Three Confucian Sites, Baotu Spring
  • Coastal Cities: Qingdao, Yantai, Weihai
  • Cuisine: Shandong Cuisine, Qingdao Beer, Scallion Pancakes

Key Attractions#

  • Mount Tai: UNESCO World Natural and Cultural Heritage, leader of the Five Great Mountains
  • Qufu Three Confucian Sites: UNESCO World Heritage, birthplace of Confucius
  • Qingdao: International Architecture Expo, Beer Capital
    • Qingdao Tourism Official Website - Tourism information
    • Can visit Badaguan, Zhanqiao Pier, Mount Lao, etc.
    • Recommended to visit in summer, experience Beer Festival

Travel Tips#

  • Best Time: Spring and autumn are pleasant, suitable for travel; summer is hot but good for escaping heat
  • Transportation: Well-developed high-speed rail network, convenient connections between cities
    • Shanghai-Suzhou: 30 minutes by high-speed rail
    • Shanghai-Hangzhou: 1 hour by high-speed rail
    • Shanghai-Nanjing: 1.5 hours by high-speed rail
  • Special Experiences: Experience Jiangnan water towns, taste authentic cuisine, experience garden art
  • Useful Links:
    • Ctrip - Hotel and attraction ticket booking
    • Mafengwo - Travel guides and travelogues
    • Dianping - Restaurant and attraction reviews

North China Travel Guide

North China Travel Guide#

North China includes Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei, Shanxi, and Inner Mongolia, forming one of China’s core political, cultural, and economic regions.

Beijing#

Highlights#

  • History and Culture: Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Great Wall
  • Modern Metropolis: CBD, 798 Art Zone, National Centre for the Performing Arts
  • Cuisine: Peking Duck, Zhajiangmian, Douzhi, Lu Zhu

Key Attractions#

  • Palace Museum: Imperial palace of Ming and Qing dynasties, UNESCO World Heritage
    • Palace Museum Official Website - Booking and ticket purchase
    • Booking methods: Official website or WeChat official account “Palace Museum”
    • Recommended to book 10 days in advance, daily limit of 80,000 visitors
  • Tiananmen Square: The world’s largest city square
    • Free admission, ID required
  • Badaling Great Wall: The essence of the Great Wall
  • Temple of Heaven: Ancient imperial altar
  • Summer Palace: Model of imperial gardens

Food Recommendations#

Accommodation Suggestions#

  • Core areas like Wangfujing, Qianmen, Sanlitun
  • Experience traditional courtyard hotels

Tianjin#

Highlights#

  • Concession Architecture: Five Avenues, Italian Style Area
  • Traditional Arts: Yangliuqing New Year Paintings, Clay Figurine Zhang
  • Cuisine: Goubuli Steamed Buns, Jianbing Guozi, Erduoyan Fried Cake

Key Attractions#

  • Five Avenues: Architectural exposition of different countries
    • Free admission, recommended to rent bicycles or walk
    • Guided tour services available
  • Ancient Culture Street: Traditional culture experience
    • Experience traditional crafts like Clay Figurine Zhang and Yangliuqing New Year Paintings
  • Tianjin Eye: The only ferris wheel on a bridge in the world

Hebei#

Highlights#

  • Imperial Culture: Chengde Mountain Resort, Eastern Qing Tombs
  • Great Wall: Jinshanling Great Wall, Shanhaiguan
  • Historic Sites: Zhengding Ancient City, Zhaozhou Bridge

Key Attractions#

  • Chengde Mountain Resort: UNESCO World Heritage, Qing Dynasty imperial garden
  • Shanhaiguan: First Pass Under Heaven
  • Baiyangdian Lake: Pearl of North China, water town scenery
    • Recommended to visit in spring and summer, experience lotus flowers and reed marshes

Shanxi#

Highlights#

  • Ancient Architecture: Pingyao Ancient City, Yungang Grottoes, Hanging Temple
  • Jin Merchant Culture: Qiao Family Compound, Wang Family Compound
  • Noodle Culture: Daoxiao Noodles, Youmian Kaolaolao

Key Attractions#

  • Pingyao Ancient City: UNESCO World Heritage, well-preserved Ming and Qing ancient city
    • Pingyao Ancient City Official Website - Ticket and accommodation information
    • Recommended to stay inside the ancient city, experience traditional architecture
    • Can visit Rishengchang Exchange Shop, County Government Office and other attractions
  • Yungang Grottoes: UNESCO World Heritage, Buddhist art treasure house
  • Mount Wutai: Buddhist mountain, Manjushri’s sacred site

Inner Mongolia#

Highlights#

  • Grassland Scenery: Hulunbuir Grassland, Xilin Gol Grassland
  • Mongolian Culture: Naadam Festival, Horsehead Fiddle, Mongolian Yurts
  • Cuisine: Roasted Whole Lamb, Hand-held Meat, Milk Tea

Key Attractions#

  • Hulunbuir Grassland: One of the world’s four great grasslands
    • Best travel time: June to September
    • Can experience horseback riding, staying in yurts, attending Naadam Festival
    • Recommended 3-5 days for in-depth tour
  • Xiangshawan (Singing Sand Bay): Desert that sings
  • Genghis Khan Mausoleum: Mausoleum of the great conqueror

Travel Tips#

  • Best Time: Spring and autumn are pleasant, summer is hot, winter is cold but has ice and snow festivals
  • Transportation: Well-developed high-speed rail network, convenient connections between cities
    • Beijing-Tianjin: 30 minutes by high-speed rail
    • Beijing-Chengde: About 1.5 hours
    • Beijing-Taiyuan: About 3 hours
  • Special Experiences: Experience imperial culture, taste authentic northern cuisine, experience grassland customs
  • Useful Links:
    • Ctrip - Hotel and attraction ticket booking
    • Mafengwo - Travel guides and travelogues
    • Dianping - Restaurant and attraction reviews

Northeast China Travel Guide

Northeast China Travel Guide#

Northeast China includes Liaoning, Jilin, and Heilongjiang provinces, featuring ice and snow scenery, border customs, and forest folk culture.

Liaoning#

Highlights#

  • Historic Sites: Shenyang, Dalian, Dandong
  • Natural Scenery: Qianshan Mountain, Benxi Water Cave, Red Beach
  • Cuisine: Liaoning Cuisine, Sweet and Sour Pork, Sour Cabbage with Pork

Key Attractions#

  • Shenyang Imperial Palace: UNESCO World Heritage, Qing Dynasty imperial palace
  • Dalian: Romantic city, coastal city
    • Dalian Tourism Official Website - Tourism information
    • Can visit Xinghai Square, Tiger Beach, Bangchuidao Island, etc.
    • Recommended to visit in summer, experience coastal scenery
  • Qianshan Mountain: Northeast China’s first famous mountain
  • Benxi Water Cave: World’s longest underground river

Jilin#

Highlights#

  • Ice and Snow Scenery: Changbai Mountain, Rime Island, Chagan Lake
  • Korean Culture: Yanbian, Tumen, Hunchun
  • Cuisine: Jilin Cuisine, Sweet and Sour Pork, Cold Noodles

Key Attractions#

  • Changbai Mountain: UNESCO World Natural Heritage, Northeast China’s highest peak
    • Changbai Mountain Official Website - Ticket and tour information
    • Recommended 2-3 days visit, can see Tianchi and waterfalls
    • Best travel time: June-September (summer), December-February (winter skiing)
  • Rime Island: One of China’s four natural wonders
    • Best viewing time: December to February next year
    • Recommended to visit in the morning for best lighting
  • Chagan Lake: One of the world’s largest freshwater lake groups
    • Can experience winter fishing (December to February next year)
    • Recommended 1-2 days visit
  • Museum of the Imperial Palace of Manchukuo: UNESCO World Heritage, evidence of Japanese invasion of China

Heilongjiang#

Highlights#

  • Ice and Snow Scenery: Harbin, Snow Town, Mohe
  • Border Customs: Heihe, Suifenhe, Fuyuan
  • Cuisine: Heilongjiang Cuisine, Northeast Stew, Red Sausage

Key Attractions#

  • Harbin: Ice City, Oriental Little Paris
    • Harbin Tourism Official Website - Tourism information
    • Can visit Central Street, St. Sophia Cathedral, Ice and Snow World, etc.
    • Recommended to visit in winter, experience ice and snow culture
  • Snow Town: China’s Snow Town, World Ice and Snow Art Capital
    • Snow Town Official Website - Ticket and accommodation information
    • Best travel time: December to February next year
    • Recommended to book accommodation in advance, avoid holidays
  • Mohe: China’s northernmost point, aurora viewing site
    • Best travel time: June-August (aurora), December-February (extreme cold experience)
    • Note warmth, winter temperatures are extremely low
  • Wudalianchi: UNESCO World Natural Heritage, volcanic geopark

Travel Tips#

  • Best Time: Winter for ice and snow experience, summer for escaping heat
  • Transportation: Well-developed high-speed rail network, convenient connections between cities
    • Harbin-Changchun: About 1 hour by high-speed rail
    • Harbin-Shenyang: About 2.5 hours by high-speed rail
  • Winter Precautions: Note warmth, prepare cold-weather gear
  • Special Experiences: Experience ice and snow culture, taste Northeast cuisine, experience border customs
  • Useful Links:
    • Ctrip - Hotel and attraction ticket booking
    • Mafengwo - Travel guides and travelogues
    • Dianping - Restaurant and attraction reviews

Northwest China Travel Guide

Northwest China Travel Guide#

Northwest China includes Shaanxi, Gansu, Qinghai, Ningxia, and Xinjiang, featuring Silk Road relics, desert grasslands, and lake scenery.

Shaanxi#

Highlights#

  • Historic Sites: Ancient capitals like Xi’an, Xianyang, Yan’an
  • Cultural Sites: Terracotta Warriors, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Huaqing Pool
  • Cuisine: Shaanxi Cuisine, Mutton Steamed Bread, Rougamo

Key Attractions#

  • Terracotta Warriors: UNESCO World Heritage, Terracotta Army of Qin Shi Huang
  • Big Wild Goose Pagoda: UNESCO World Heritage, Tang Dynasty Buddhist architecture
  • Huaqing Pool: UNESCO World Heritage, Tang Dynasty imperial garden
  • Xi’an City Wall: One of the best-preserved ancient city walls

Gansu#

Highlights#

  • Silk Road Culture: Dunhuang, Jiayuguan, Zhangye
  • Natural Scenery: Singing Sand Mountain and Crescent Lake, Colorful Danxia, Qilian Mountains
  • Cuisine: Gansu Cuisine, Lanzhou Beef Noodles, Hand-held Mutton

Key Attractions#

  • Mogao Caves: UNESCO World Heritage, treasure house of Buddhist art
    • Mogao Caves Official Website - Ticket and booking information
    • Recommended to book in advance, daily visitor limit
    • Recommended to hire a guide to understand Buddhist art
  • Singing Sand Mountain and Crescent Lake: UNESCO World Natural Heritage, desert wonder
  • Jiayuguan: UNESCO World Heritage, First Strategic Pass Under Heaven
  • Colorful Danxia: UNESCO World Natural Heritage, colorful landform

Qinghai#

Highlights#

  • Plateau Scenery: Qinghai Lake, Chaka Salt Lake, Kumbum Monastery
  • Tibetan Culture: Tibetan Buddhism, Tibetan songs and dances, Tibetan cuisine
  • Cuisine: Qinghai Cuisine, Highland Barley Wine, Butter Tea

Key Attractions#

  • Qinghai Lake: World’s largest inland saltwater lake
    • Qinghai Lake Official Website - Ticket and tour information
    • Best travel time: July-August (rapeseed flower season)
    • Can cycle around the lake, experience plateau scenery
  • Chaka Salt Lake: Sky Mirror, China’s most beautiful salt lake
  • Kumbum Monastery: One of the six great monasteries of Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism
  • Kunlun Mountains: Ancestor of all mountains, Taoist mountain
    • Note altitude sickness, recommended gradual adaptation

Ningxia#

Highlights#

  • Hui Culture: Yinchuan, Zhongwei, Guyuan
  • Natural Scenery: Shapotou, Sand Lake, Western Xia Imperial Tombs
  • Cuisine: Ningxia Cuisine, Mutton Noodles, Eight Treasure Tea

Key Attractions#

  • Shapotou: UNESCO World Natural Heritage, meeting of desert and Yellow River
  • Sand Lake: UNESCO World Natural Heritage, perfect combination of desert and lake
  • Western Xia Imperial Tombs: UNESCO World Heritage, imperial tombs of Western Xia Dynasty
  • Zhenbeibao Western Film Studio: China’s western film shooting base

Xinjiang#

Highlights#

  • Silk Road Culture: Urumqi, Turpan, Kashgar
  • Natural Scenery: Tianchi Lake, Kanas, Sayram Lake
  • Cuisine: Xinjiang Cuisine, Roasted Lamb Skewers, Big Plate Chicken

Key Attractions#

  • Tianchi Lake: UNESCO World Natural Heritage, pearl of Tianshan Mountains
  • Kanas: UNESCO World Natural Heritage, God’s private garden
    • Kanas Official Website - Ticket and tour information
    • Recommended 2-3 days for in-depth visit, experience northern Xinjiang scenery
    • Best travel time: June to September
  • Turpan: UNESCO World Heritage, important town on the Silk Road
    • Turpan Official Website - Tourism information
    • Can visit Flaming Mountain, Grape Valley, etc.
    • Note heat prevention, summer temperatures are high
  • Kashgar: Ancient Silk Road city, Uyghur cultural center

Travel Tips#

  • Best Time: Summer is suitable but note heat prevention; spring and autumn are pleasant
  • Transportation: High-speed rail network is developing rapidly, but some areas still rely mainly on highways
    • Xi’an-Lanzhou: About 3 hours by high-speed rail
    • Xi’an-Urumqi: Requires flight or long-distance train
  • Special Experiences: Experience Silk Road culture, taste authentic cuisine, experience desert grassland scenery
  • Useful Links:
    • Ctrip - Hotel and attraction ticket booking
    • Mafengwo - Travel guides and travelogues
    • Dianping - Restaurant and attraction reviews

Practical Tips and Emergency Handbook

Practical Tips and Emergency Handbook#

Transportation#

High-Speed Rail#

  • China’s high-speed rail network is well-developed, covering major cities
  • Recommended to book tickets in advance, available through 12306 official website or APP
  • High-speed rail stations are usually some distance from city centers, allow sufficient time
  • Recommended to arrive 30 minutes early for security check and waiting

Flights#

  • Major cities have international airports (Beijing Capital, Shanghai Pudong, Guangzhou Baiyun, Shenzhen Baoan, etc.)
  • Dense domestic route network covering the whole country
  • Recommended to book in advance, pay attention to airline promotions
  • Useful Links:

Long-Distance Bus#

  • Frequent long-distance bus services with affordable prices
  • Recommended to check schedules and times in advance
  • Keep personal belongings safe

Urban Transportation#

  • Subway systems are well-developed in first and second-tier cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, etc.)
    • Recommended to purchase transit cards (Yikatong, Yangchengtong, etc.) for convenience
  • Extensive bus network coverage with affordable fares (usually 1-3 yuan)
  • Taxis and ride-hailing services are convenient, recommended to use official platforms

Self-Driving#

  • Well-developed highway network with good road conditions
  • Requires valid Chinese driver’s license or international driver’s license
  • Pay attention to traffic rules and speed limit signs

Accommodation#

Homestays#

  • Experience local culture and lifestyle
  • Relatively affordable, suitable for backpackers
  • Recommended to check host reviews and location in advance

Budget Hotels#

  • Chain brands with uniform standards
  • Moderate prices with complete facilities
  • Usually good locations with convenient transportation

Luxury Hotels#

  • International brands with quality service
  • Luxurious facilities and superior locations
  • Suitable for business trips and leisure vacations

Unique Experiences#

  • Special accommodations like quadrangle courtyards, tulou, stilt houses
  • Scenic rooms with mountain, sea, or lake views
  • Themed hotels like hot spring hotels, ski hotels

Dining#

Local Snacks#

  • Each region has unique local snacks
  • Recommended to try local specialties, but pay attention to hygiene
  • Affordable prices with authentic flavors
  • Hot restaurants on social media
  • May require queuing, recommended to make reservations in advance
  • Suitable for photos and sharing

Food Safety#

  • Choose reputable restaurants
  • Pay attention to ingredient freshness
  • Avoid raw and cold foods, pay attention to drinking water safety

Allergy Safety#

  • Understand common allergens (peanuts, seafood, etc.)
  • Clearly inform restaurants about allergies when ordering
  • Carry necessary anti-allergy medications

Payment Methods and Mobile Network#

Payment Methods#

  • Mobile Payment: WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used
    • WeChat Pay - Official payment platform
    • Alipay - Official payment platform
    • Recommended to bind bank cards for convenient payment
  • Bank Cards: UnionPay cards are usable in most places
    • Recommended to carry UnionPay cards, supports card payments and ATM withdrawals
  • Cash: Still usable in small amounts, but mobile payment is more convenient
    • Recommended to prepare some cash as backup

Mobile Network#

  • WiFi: Free WiFi available in many public places (airports, hotels, malls)
    • Some require phone number verification, recommended to prepare in advance
  • Mobile Data: Recommended to purchase local SIM cards or activate international roaming
    • Major operators: China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom
    • Available at airports or service centers
  • Recommended Apps:
    • Map Navigation: Amap, Baidu Maps
    • Translation: Youdao Translator, Google Translate, Baidu Translate
    • Payment: WeChat, Alipay
    • Transportation: 12306, Didi Chuxing, Amap Taxi
    • Travel: Ctrip, Mafengwo, Dianping

Health and Medical / Insurance Recommendations#

Health and Medical#

  • Understand local medical resources and contact information
  • Carry common medications and first aid supplies
  • Pay attention to personal hygiene and food safety

Insurance Recommendations#

  • Recommended to purchase travel insurance
  • Understand insurance coverage and claims process
  • Keep medical receipts and insurance documents

Language Communication and Common Phrases#

Language Communication#

  • Mandarin is the official language, but there are dialect differences in different regions
  • English services are usually available in tourist areas, but may be limited in non-tourist areas
  • Recommended to download translation apps and carry a phrasebook
  • Recommended Apps:
    • Youdao Translator - Supports voice translation and photo translation
    • Google Translate - Multi-language support, offline available
    • Baidu Translate - Comprehensive Chinese-English translation
    • Tencent Translator - Real-time voice translation

Common Phrases#

  • Hello: Hello / 你好
  • Thank you: Thank you / 谢谢
  • Sorry: Sorry / 对不起
  • Excuse me: Excuse me / 请问
  • How much: How much / 多少钱
  • Where: Where / 在哪里

Environmental Protection and Local Cultural Etiquette#

Environmental Protection#

  • Reduce use of disposable plastic products
  • Sort and dispose of garbage properly
  • Protect natural environment, don’t litter

Local Cultural Etiquette#

  • Respect local culture and customs
  • Learn basic social etiquette
  • Pay attention to behavior norms in public places
  • Respect religious beliefs and ethnic customs

Emergency Contacts#

Emergency Phone Numbers#

  • Police: 110
  • Medical Emergency: 120
  • Fire: 119
  • Traffic Accident: 122

Consular Protection#

  • Know your country’s embassy/consulate contact information in China
  • Contact embassy/consulate promptly in emergencies
  • Keep copies of passport and important documents

Preface and User Guide

Preface and User Guide#

Purpose#

This guide aims to provide comprehensive and practical travel information for visitors planning to travel to China. Whether you are visiting China for the first time or looking to explore this fascinating country in depth, this handbook will serve as your trusted companion on your journey.

Target Audience#

  • First-time foreign visitors to China
  • Travelers seeking to explore China in depth
  • Business professionals
  • Students and researchers
  • Friends interested in Chinese culture

How to Quickly Find the Information You Need#

This handbook features a clearly organized structure:

South China Travel Guide

South China Travel Guide#

South China includes Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan, Hong Kong, and Macau, forming China’s southern gateway with unique Lingnan culture and tropical charm.

Guangdong#

Highlights#

  • Lingnan Culture: Cantonese culture, Chaoshan culture, Hakka culture
  • Modern Cities: Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai
  • Cuisine: Cantonese Cuisine, Dim Sum, Cantonese-style Dim Sum

Key Attractions#

  • Canton Tower: Little Waist, new landmark of Guangzhou
  • Shenzhen: Pioneer of reform and opening up, innovation capital
  • Kaiping Diaolou: UNESCO World Heritage, architecture combining Chinese and Western styles
  • Mount Danxia: UNESCO World Natural Heritage, red bed landform

Guangxi#

Highlights#

  • Landscape Scenery: Guilin Landscape, Li River, Yangshuo
  • Ethnic Culture: Zhuang, Yao, Miao and other minority cultures
  • Cuisine: Guilin Rice Noodles, Luosifen, Beer Fish

Key Attractions#

  • Guilin Landscape: UNESCO World Natural Heritage, the most beautiful landscape under heaven
  • Li River: Hundred-mile gallery, picturesque scenery
    • Recommended to take bamboo raft or cruise boat, essential section from Yangdi to Xingping
    • Can book boat tickets in advance
  • Yangshuo West Street: Foreigners’ Street, fusion of Chinese and Western cultures
    • Free admission, recommended to visit at night, experience nightlife
    • Can experience rock climbing, cycling and other outdoor activities
  • Longsheng Rice Terraces: Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System

Hainan#

Highlights#

  • Island Scenery: Sanya, Haikou, Qionghai
  • Tropical Charm: Coconut wind and sea rhyme, tropical rainforest
  • Cuisine: Hainan Four Famous Dishes, Coconut Chicken, Qingbuliang

Key Attractions#

  • Sanya: International tourism island, ends of the earth
  • Yalong Bay: First Bay under Heaven
    • Free beach, suitable for swimming and diving
    • Multiple resort hotels nearby
  • Wuzhizhou Island: Lovers’ Island, diving paradise
  • Yanoda Rainforest: Tropical rainforest cultural area

Hong Kong#

Highlights#

  • International Metropolis: Victoria Harbour, Central, Tsim Sha Tsui
  • East-West Culture: Fusion of traditional culture and modern civilization
  • Cuisine: Hong Kong-style Tea Restaurants, Roast Meat, Seafood

Key Attractions#

  • Victoria Harbour: One of the world’s three great natural harbors
    • Free admission, recommended to visit at night for the light show
    • Can take Star Ferry
  • The Peak: Overlooking the entire Hong Kong
  • Disneyland: Theme park
  • Ocean Park: Ocean theme park

Macau#

Highlights#

  • Historic Center: Ruins of St. Paul’s, A-Ma Temple, Senado Square
  • Gaming Culture: Casino Lisboa, Venetian, Grand Lisboa
  • Cuisine: Portuguese Egg Tarts, Pork Chop Bun, Macanese Portuguese Cuisine

Key Attractions#

  • Ruins of St. Paul’s: UNESCO World Heritage, landmark of Macau
    • Free admission, recommended to visit in the morning to avoid crowds
    • Can visit Macau Museum
  • Historic Center of Macau: UNESCO World Heritage, fusion of Chinese and Portuguese cultures
    • Including Senado Square, A-Ma Temple and more than 20 historical buildings
    • Recommended to walk around, experience Chinese-Portuguese culture
  • The Venetian Macao: Integrated resort

Travel Tips#

  • Best Time: Spring and autumn are pleasant, summer is hot and rainy but good for escaping heat
  • Transportation: Well-developed high-speed rail network, Hong Kong and Macau require entry permits or visas
    • Guangzhou-Shenzhen: 30 minutes by high-speed rail
    • Guangzhou-Guilin: About 2.5 hours by high-speed rail
    • Guangzhou-Haikou: About 6 hours (requires ferry)
  • Special Experiences: Experience Lingnan culture, taste authentic cuisine, enjoy island resorts
  • Useful Links:
    • Ctrip - Hotel and attraction ticket booking
    • Mafengwo - Travel guides and travelogues
    • Dianping - Restaurant and attraction reviews

Southwest China Travel Guide

Southwest China Travel Guide#

Southwest China includes Chongqing, Sichuan, Guizhou, Yunnan, and Tibet, featuring plateau scenery, ethnic culture, and natural wonders.

Chongqing#

Highlights#

  • Mountain City Characteristics: Three-dimensional transportation, night view, hot pot culture
  • Historic Sites: Dazu Rock Carvings, Bai Mansion, Zhazidong
  • Cuisine: Chongqing Hot Pot, Xiaomian, Sour and Spicy Noodles

Key Attractions#

  • Hongya Cave: Traditional Bayu architecture, brilliant night view
    • Free admission, recommended to visit at night for the night view
    • Can experience traditional Bayu culture and cuisine
  • Liberation Monument: Landmark of Chongqing, commercial center
    • Free admission, shopping and dining nearby
  • Dazu Rock Carvings: UNESCO World Heritage, treasure house of rock carving art
  • Wulong Three Natural Bridges: UNESCO World Natural Heritage, karst landform

Sichuan#

Highlights#

  • Natural Scenery: Jiuzhaigou, Mount Emei, Leshan Giant Buddha
  • Cultural Sites: Dujiangyan, Mount Qingcheng, Du Fu Thatched Cottage
  • Cuisine: Sichuan Cuisine, Hot Pot, Mapo Tofu

Key Attractions#

  • Jiuzhaigou: UNESCO World Natural Heritage, fairyland
    • Jiuzhaigou Official Website - Ticket and tour information
    • Recommended to book in advance, avoid holidays
    • Recommended 2-3 days visit, experience four-season beauty
  • Mount Emei: UNESCO World Natural and Cultural Heritage, Buddhist mountain
  • Leshan Giant Buddha: UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage, world’s largest stone Buddha
  • Dujiangyan: UNESCO World Heritage, ancient irrigation project miracle

Guizhou#

Highlights#

  • Natural Scenery: Huangguoshu Waterfall, Libo Xiaoqikong, Mount Fanjing
  • Ethnic Culture: Miao, Dong, Buyi and other minorities
  • Cuisine: Guizhou Cuisine, Sour Fish Soup, Siwawa

Key Attractions#

  • Huangguoshu Waterfall: China’s largest waterfall
  • Libo Xiaoqikong: UNESCO World Natural Heritage, emerald on the Earth’s belt
  • Xijiang Thousand Miao Villages: China’s largest Miao settlement
  • Mount Fanjing: UNESCO World Natural Heritage, Buddhist mountain

Yunnan#

Highlights#

  • Natural Scenery: Lijiang Ancient City, Dali, Shangri-La
  • Ethnic Culture: 25 ethnic minorities, diverse culture
  • Cuisine: Yunnan Cuisine, Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles, Steam Pot Chicken

Key Attractions#

  • Lijiang Ancient City: UNESCO World Heritage, Naxi ethnic cultural ancient city
    • Lijiang Ancient City Official Website - Ticket and accommodation information
    • Recommended to stay in the ancient city, experience Naxi culture
    • Can visit Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Lugu Lake, etc.
  • Dali: Wind, Flower, Snow, Moon, Bai ethnic cultural ancient city
    • Dali Official Website - Tourism information
    • Recommended 2-3 days visit, experience Bai culture
    • Can visit Erhai Lake, Cangshan Mountain, Shuanglang, etc.
  • Shangri-La: Paradise on earth, Tibetan Buddhist sacred site
    • Shangri-La Official Website - Tourism information
    • Recommended 3-5 days for in-depth visit, experience Tibetan culture
    • Can visit Pudacuo, Songzanlin Monastery, etc.
  • Stone Forest: UNESCO World Natural Heritage, first wonder of the world

Tibet#

Highlights#

  • Plateau Scenery: Potala Palace, Namtso, Mount Everest
  • Tibetan Buddhism: Lhasa, Shigatse, Jokhang Temple
  • Cuisine: Tibetan Cuisine, Butter Tea, Highland Barley Wine

Key Attractions#

  • Potala Palace: UNESCO World Heritage, pearl on the snow-covered plateau
    • Potala Palace Official Website - Ticket and booking information
    • Recommended to book in advance, daily visitor limit
    • Note altitude sickness, recommended gradual adaptation
  • Jokhang Temple: Sacred site and center of Tibetan Buddhism
  • Namtso: World’s highest saltwater lake
    • Recommended 2 days visit, note altitude sickness
    • Best travel time: May to October
  • Mount Everest: World’s highest peak
    • Border permit required, recommended to join a tour
    • Note altitude sickness, recommended to adapt in advance

Travel Tips#

  • Best Time: Spring and autumn are pleasant, summer is rainy, winter is cold
  • Transportation: Plateau areas require attention to altitude sickness, recommended gradual adaptation
    • Chengdu-Chongqing: About 1.5 hours by high-speed rail
    • Chengdu-Kunming: About 6 hours by high-speed rail
    • Kunming-Dali: About 2 hours by high-speed rail
  • Altitude Sickness: Tibet and parts of Yunnan have high altitude, recommended to adapt in advance
  • Special Experiences: Experience ethnic culture, taste authentic cuisine, experience natural wonders
  • Useful Links:
    • Ctrip - Hotel and attraction ticket booking
    • Mafengwo - Travel guides and travelogues
    • Dianping - Restaurant and attraction reviews