What is Chinese New Year? Chinese New Year (Spring Festival, 春节) is the most important traditional holiday in China. The 2026 celebration begins on February 17, with the official 7-day public holiday running February 16-22. When to Avoid Travel Avoid travel in China during the week before and after the new year (Feb 10-25, 2026). […]
1. The Great Wall at Sunrise (Mutianyu) The most iconic photo op in China, the Great Wall at sunrise offers dramatic light over misty mountains. Arrive by 5:30am and bring a wide-angle lens for sweeping landscapes. 2. Shanghai Skyline from the Bund At night, the Pudong skyline lights up in neon. Shoot from the Bund […]
Planning your first trip to China? Here are the essential things you need to know before you go. From visa requirements to payment apps, we cover everything you need for a smooth trip.
China is nearly cashless. Here’s how to set up mobile payments as a foreign visitor. Step-by-step guide to linking your international credit card to WeChat Pay and Alipay.
China is vast, and the best time to visit varies dramatically by region. Here’s our seasonal guide.
Shared Dishes, Not Individual Plates Chinese meals are communal — multiple dishes in the center for everyone to share. Take small portions and pass dishes clockwise. Chopstick Etiquette Never stick chopsticks upright in rice (resembles funeral incense). Don’t tap chopsticks on bowls (beggars’ gesture). Use the serving end when taking food from shared plates. Toasting […]
High-Speed Rail: The Best Way to Travel China has the world’s largest high-speed rail network at over 40,000 km. Trains reach 350 km/h (217 mph) and connect all major cities. Beijing-Shanghai takes just 4.5 hours. Booking Trains Use Trip.com or the official 12306 app. Tickets release 15 days ahead. Second class is comfortable and affordable; […]
Essentials China is modern but a few items make life easier: VPN installed before arrival, Alipay/WeChat Pay set up, and a power adapter (Type A/C/I plugs, 220V). Documents Passport (with visa), printed hotel reservations, travel insurance details, and emergency contacts in Chinese. Keep digital copies in cloud storage. Clothing by Season Spring/autumn: layers, light jacket. […]
