China

Top destinations to visit in China

1. Guangdong: Located in Southern China, Guangdong is one of the wealthiest and most populous provinces in the country. It is known for its vibrant economy, bustling cities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen, and rich culinary traditions.
2. Jiangsu: Situated along the eastern coast, Jiangsu is another economically prosperous province with cities like Nanjing and Suzhou. It is famous for its beautiful gardens, ancient water towns, and rich history.
3. Shandong: Located in Eastern China, Shandong is known for its historical significance, including the birthplace of Confucius and the ancient city of Qufu. It also has stunning coastal cities like Qingdao and Yantai.
4. Zhejiang: This coastal province is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, including West Lake in Hangzhou and the scenic water town of Wuzhen. Zhejiang is also a hub for manufacturing and trade.
5. Sichuan: Located in Southwest China, Sichuan is known for its spicy cuisine, breathtaking natural landscapes, and famous tourist destinations like the Giant Panda sanctuaries.
6. Henan: Situated in Central China, Henan has a rich historical heritage, with attractions like the Longmen Grottoes and the Shaolin Temple, known for its association with martial arts.
7. Hubei: Home to the famous Three Gorges along the Yangtze River, Hubei is known for its stunning landscapes and historical sites, including the city of Wuhan.
8. Fujian: This coastal province is known for its beautiful beaches, distinctive architecture, and cultural heritage, including the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Fujian Tulou.
9. Beijing: While not a province, Beijing is the capital city of China and a municipality directly under the central government. It is the political, cultural, and educational center of the country and offers numerous historical and modern landmarks.
10. Shanghai: Like Beijing, Shanghai is also a municipality directly under the central government. It is a global financial hub, known for its modern skyline, vibrant nightlife, and cultural attractions.

Best time to visit China

China's vastness offers an abundance of places to explore during your visit. The climate conditions in different regions vary, resulting in distinct seasons at different times. China experiences four seasons - Summer, Winter, Autumn, and Spring. For an ideal trip, Autumn and Spring are widely regarded as the best times to visit, as the temperatures are pleasant, and the weather is delightful, marking the transition from Summer to Winter and Winter to Summer, respectively.
Nevertheless, Summer and Winter can also be rewarding for those who don't mind the scorching heat or freezing temperatures. During these seasons, the weather can be extreme, which often leads to fewer tourists, creating opportunities for more affordable hotel accommodations.

Experiences you should not miss in China

1. Marvel at the grandeur of the Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China stands as one of humanity's most extraordinary engineering achievements and serves as an extensive open-air museum, spanning from Gansu Province in the west to Shanhaiguan on the Bohai Sea in the east. Over the centuries, it has been built, rebuilt, and maintained from the 5th century BC to the 16th century, serving as a protective barrier along the northern borders of the Chinese Empire, safeguarding against the incursions of nomadic tribes from the north. For most visitors, the Great Wall is a must-see destination, with the Beijing area being a popular choice due to its easier accessibility and the impressive snaking path of the wall over the mountain peaks. As China's foremost tourist attraction, the Great Wall leaves an indelible impression on all who visit.
For travelers looking to explore the iconic Great Wall and other captivating landmarks in China, considering China travel packages can offer a comprehensive and enriching experience. These packages often include well-planned itineraries, expert guides, and seamless arrangements, ensuring a hassle-free journey through the wonders of China, including the awe-inspiring Great Wall.

2. See the Terracotta Army
In the 1970s, while farmers were excavating wells on the outskirts of Xi'an, they made an extraordinary discovery that would become China's most significant archaeological find: the Terracotta Army. Unearthed in three large underground pits, this remarkable find was created to safeguard the tomb of the First Emperor. The collection comprises over 8,000 life-size warriors, approximately 520 horses, more than 100 chariots, and numerous other non-military figures, all dating back to around 280 BC.
Despite some damage inflicted by the passage of time, many of the statues have been meticulously restored, serving as a testament to the emperor's profound significance and his beliefs regarding the afterlife. Located within Emperor Qin Shi Huang's Mausoleum Site Park, this site stands as one of China's most revered tourist destinations, offering an unforgettable experience of witnessing this majestic assembly of soldiers and horses, reminiscent of a centuries-old parade. Visitors can partake in English-language guided tours, enriching their understanding of this awe-inspiring historical treasure.

3. Visit the Forbidden City
Constructed during the early 15th century, the Forbidden City held the distinction of serving as the imperial residence for emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties until the abdication of the last Emperor of China, Puyi, in 1912. Enclosed within walls and encircled by a moat, this architectural marvel stands as the largest palatial complex in the world. According to legend, its impressive 980 buildings are said to contain precisely 9,999 rooms, although the actual count falls slightly lower, at around a thousand.
Undoubtedly, the Forbidden City reigns as the top tourist attraction in Beijing, attracting large crowds of visitors year-round. To fully appreciate the historical and cultural significance of this majestic complex, considering China tours packages that include expert guides and well-planned itineraries can be a wise choice. By availing of such packages, travelers can navigate the vastness of the Forbidden City with ease and gain profound insights into the lives of emperors and the rich history that lies within its walls.

4. Explore Mogao Caves
For travelers traversing the historic Silk Road, a visit to Dunhuang becomes an essential stop to explore the renowned Mogao Caves, a true representation of early Buddhist cave art. In contrast to the Yungang Caves, which showcase Buddhas carved into hillsides, the Mogao Grottoes predominantly boast murals adorning the cave walls. Remarkably, some of these captivating paintings date back as far as the fourth century. At its peak, the site comprised over 1,000 cave temples, each offering a glimpse into the rich heritage and artistic legacy of ancient Buddhism.

5. Cruise the River Li
Located in the northeast corner of Guangxi, the charming town of Guilin boasts some of China's most picturesque countryside, renowned for the meandering Li River that winds its way through the surrounding karst mountains. This stunning and unique landscape has captivated poets, artists, and storytellers for centuries, inspiring countless fairy tales and legends. Today, this natural splendor continues to draw tourists from all corners of the globe, eager to witness its beauty firsthand.
To truly savor the magnificence of the area, embarking on a cruise along the Li River is highly recommended. The most popular stretch is from Guilin to Yangshuo, where the river gently flows amidst approximately 80 kilometers of extraordinary rock formations and caves, each bearing romantic names such as the Mount of Unique Beauty, Elephant Trunk Hill, and Reed Flute Cave. Depending on personal preferences, one can choose from various boat options, ranging from tourist cruise ships to quaint bamboo punts. Whether opting for a few hours' journey or an extended multi-day excursion, the Li River cruise promises an unforgettable experience amid nature's wonders.

Things to know before traveling to China

1. Visa Requirements: Check the visa requirements for your nationality before planning your trip to China. Ensure you have a valid visa and that your passport has enough remaining validity.
2. Language: While Mandarin is the official language, English is not widely spoken, especially outside major tourist areas. Learning some basic Chinese phrases or carrying a translation app can be helpful.
3. Currency: The currency used in China is the Chinese Yuan (CNY) or Renminbi (RMB). Cash is commonly used, so carry enough local currency, especially in rural areas.
4. Cashless Payments: Mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in China. Set up these apps and link your payment method to facilitate cashless transactions.
5. Food and Water: Chinese cuisine is diverse and delicious, but be cautious with street food and tap water. Stick to bottled water and eat at reputable establishments to avoid stomach issues.
6. Transportation: China has an extensive and efficient transportation system, including high-speed trains and domestic flights. Book tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
7. Cultural Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with Chinese cultural norms, such as respecting elders, using both hands when giving and receiving items, and avoiding sensitive political topics in conversation.
8. Weather: China's climate varies greatly across regions and seasons. Pack appropriate clothing based on the weather conditions during your visit.
9. Personal Safety: China is generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution in crowded areas to avoid pickpocketing. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
10. Health and Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations. Check if you need any vaccinations before traveling to China.
11. Respect for Local Customs: Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and sacred sites. Dress modestly and follow any guidelines or restrictions in place.

Why choose Acqua?

Acqua offers access to local expertise through carefully selected tour operators who possess excellent language skills, destination knowledge, and buying power. Customize your trip to China by choosing accommodation, transportation, activities, and pace. Directly booking with local operators ensures cost efficiency and supports local economies. Acqua partners with established operators for favorable rates, providing peace of mind with guarantees and insurance coverage. By choosing Acqua, you support responsible travel and contribute to community projects.