- CapitalBeijing
- CurrencyRenminbi (CNY)
- LanguageMandarin Chinese
- Best timeApril to May and September to October
- Plug typesA, C, I
China is a country on a continental scale. Beijing has the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, Xi'an the Terracotta Army, Shanghai a futuristic skyline, and Guilin and Yangshuo some of Asia's most famous karst scenery. The high-speed rail network is the largest in the world, making it possible to cover huge distances quickly.
Top destinations in China
Beijing
The Forbidden City, hutong alleys and the Great Wall.
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Shanghai
The Bund, Pudong's skyline and the leafy Former French Concession.
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Xi'an
Ancient capital of the Terracotta Army and city walls.
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Guilin & Yangshuo
Karst peaks and the Li River.
Explore →Landmarks & things to see
Great Wall at Mutianyu
A restored, forested stretch of the Great Wall with a cable car and toboggan.
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Forbidden City
The vast imperial palace of the Ming and Qing emperors.
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The Bund
A riverfront promenade of colonial buildings facing Pudong's skyline.
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Terracotta Army
Thousands of life-size clay warriors guarding the first emperor's tomb.
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Li River
Karst peaks reflected in the river, the scene on the 20-yuan note.
Discover →Map of China
Travel tips for China
- Check whether your passport qualifies for visa-free entry or transit; rules have expanded recently.
- Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay with a foreign card before you arrive; cash is accepted but less used.
- Many Western apps are blocked; plan your connectivity, for example with an eSIM.
Where to stay in China
Beijing
Dongcheng / Wangfujing: Walk to the Forbidden City; Hutongs near Houhai: Courtyard hotels with character; Sanlitun: Modern dining and nightlife.
Shanghai
The Bund / People's Square: Historic and central; Former French Concession: Plane trees, cafés and boutiques; Pudong / Lujiazui: Skyscraper views.
Xi'an
Inside the City Wall: Walk to the Bell Tower and Muslim Quarter; Big Wild Goose Pagoda: Modern and lively at night; Near the North Station: High-speed rail convenience.
Guilin & Yangshuo
Yangshuo town: Restaurants and river cruises; Yulong River countryside: Rural guesthouses among the peaks; Guilin centre: Handy for flights and trains.
Getting there and around
Most international visitors arrive by air via Beijing or the main city gateways. Compare fares early for peak season, then use trains, buses, ferries or domestic flights between destinations.
China FAQ
When is the best time to visit China?
The best time to visit China is generally April to May and September to October. Conditions vary by region, so check each destination.
What currency is used in China?
The currency is the Renminbi (CNY). Cards are widely accepted in cities, but carry some cash for markets and rural areas.
Which plugs are used in China?
China uses plug types A, C, I. A universal travel adapter covers them.
What should I combine with China?
China combines well with Hong Kong, Vietnam, Laos, South Korea, Japan.
Do I need a visa for China?
Entry rules depend on your nationality and change regularly. Check your government's travel advice and the official immigration website before you travel.
