China Travel Guide: Top Cities and Routes

AYu

Jul 6, 2024 — 1 min read

Photo by Hao Zhang / Unsplash

Major Cities

Beijing

Must-see: Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven
Try: Peking duck, explore hutongs (traditional alleyways)

Shanghai

Highlights: The Bund, Yu Garden, Shanghai Tower
Experience: Blend of modern and traditional Chinese culture

Xi'an

Famous for: Terracotta Army, Ancient City Wall
Don't miss: Muslim Quarter food streets

Guangzhou

Known for: Canton Tower, Shamian Island
Foodie paradise: Cantonese cuisine capital

Suggested Routes

Classic China (2 weeks)
Beijing (4 days) → Xi'an (3 days) → Shanghai (4 days) → Guilin/Yangshuo (3 days)
Southern Explorer (10 days)
Hong Kong (3 days) → Guangzhou (2 days) → Yangshuo (3 days) → Chengdu (2 days)
Silk Road Adventure (2 weeks)
Xi'an → Lanzhou → Dunhuang → Turpan → Urumqi

Travel Tips

Best times to visit: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October)
Get a VPN before your trip for access to Western websites
Learn basic Mandarin phrases or download a translation app
Be prepared for squat toilets in some areas
Always carry cash as some places don't accept foreign credit cards

Remember to check visa requirements and current travel advisories before planning your trip.

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