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Mytour presents the most thorough and concise travel guide to China. With useful travel information, famous landmarks, and a unique culinary culture, this guide covers everything you need to explore the beautiful country of China.
China Travel Overview
China is the largest country in Asia by land area and the most populous country in the world, with an incredibly diverse and rich cultural heritage. From the modern cities of Beijing and Shanghai to ancient cultural landmarks like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City, China offers a colorful and varied travel experience. In China, you can immerse yourself in natural wonders while exploring its deep cultural, historical, and culinary treasures.
Best Time to Visit China
The best time to travel to China depends on various factors, including personal preferences, destinations, and cultural events. As China is a vast country, its climate can vary significantly. Each season offers a different travel experience.
Spring (March – May)
Spring is the perfect time to visit most regions of China. The weather is mild, and nature begins to bloom after the winter. It's an ideal season for exploring the Great Wall or enjoying the cherry blossom festivals in Wuhan or Shanghai.
Summer (June – August)
Summers in China tend to be hot and humid, but it's also an excellent time to visit higher-altitude regions like Tibet or Chengdu, where the climate is cooler. Additionally, coastal areas, like Hainan, become popular beach destinations for travelers.
Autumn (September – November)
Autumn is considered the best season for traveling in China due to its cool and comfortable weather. The golden leaves at the Great Wall, the mountainous landscapes of Guizhou, and the beauty of West Lake in Hangzhou are all incredibly captivating. It's also the perfect time to enjoy unique autumn dishes.
Winter (December – February)
Winter can be quite cold, especially in northern China. However, it's an excellent time to experience the ice festivals in Harbin and Harbin's Ice Festival in Heilongjiang. Moreover, winter is an ideal season to explore major cities like Beijing and Shanghai without the crowds of tourists.
Transportation
Traveling to China
There are various transportation options for traveling to China. Depending on your location, personal preferences, and budget, you can choose the most suitable mode of travel.
Airplane
This is the fastest and most popular mode of transportation to China from many countries. China boasts a large network of international airports, including major hubs like Beijing Capital International Airport, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. There are direct flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang to major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Hangzhou. For ticket prices, you can check HERE.
Train
For those who enjoy scenic views along the journey, taking the train is an ideal choice. For travelers from neighboring countries like Russia, Mongolia, and Vietnam, traveling by train offers a unique and exciting experience. The Trans-Siberian Railway from Russia to Beijing via Mongolia is one of the most famous train journeys in the world.
There are currently train routes from Hanoi to Nanning and from Hanoi to Beijing. Note: The Hanoi-Nanning route typically takes around 8-12 hours, while the Hanoi-Beijing route can take approximately 30-40 hours. It's advisable to book tickets in advance to secure a seat or sleeper berth.
Bus
Travelers from Vietnam can also reach China by bus, specifically from Hanoi to cities such as Nanning and Kunming.
Getting Around in China
High-Speed Rail
High-speed trains are one of the most popular modes of transportation in China, connecting major cities and regions at speeds of up to 300-350 km/h. This is the ideal option to save time when traveling between distant cities.
Airplane
Due to China's vast size, flying is the quickest way to reach distant tourist destinations. The country boasts an extensive domestic flight network, connecting nearly all major cities and regions.
Long-Distance Bus
For short trips or travel to rural areas, long-distance buses are an affordable option. Although they may take longer than high-speed trains or flights, buses offer extensive connectivity, reaching areas that are not well served by other forms of transportation.
Public Transportation
Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou have modern and efficient public transportation systems, including subways, buses, and taxis. The subway is the most popular choice, with an extensive network, affordable fares, and ease of use.
Bikes and Electric Scooters
Renting a bike or electric scooter is a fantastic way to explore both urban and rural areas. Many cities offer self-service electric bike rentals, allowing travelers to move around easily and enjoy their surroundings at a leisurely pace.
Renting a Car or Hiring a Driver
For those who want the freedom to explore at their own pace, renting a car or hiring a driver can be a great option. However, it's important to note that to drive in China, you will need either an international driving permit or a Chinese driver's license.
Things to Keep in Mind When Traveling
Visa: Vietnamese travelers need a visa to enter China. It’s best to apply for a visa at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in Vietnam before your trip.
Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the planned date of entry.
Health: Ensure you check for any necessary vaccinations before your trip. You might also consider purchasing travel insurance that includes overseas medical coverage.
Language: While English is increasingly spoken in major cities across China, learning a few basic phrases in Chinese can make communication much easier during your trip.
Applying for a Chinese Visa
To apply for a Chinese visa, you need to prepare and follow the steps required by the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in Vietnam.
Step 1: Prepare Documents
The documents required for a Chinese tourist visa typically include:
Original passport: It must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of entry and have at least two blank pages.
Passport-sized photo: Standard size of 4×6 cm, with a white background, taken within the last 6 months.
Visa application form: Complete and sign the visa application form as required by the Chinese Embassy/Consulate.
Copy of ID card or national identification card.
Travel itinerary: This includes flight details, hotel reservations, and planned sightseeing activities.
Proof of financial means: Savings book, bank statement, or any other documents demonstrating your ability to financially support your trip.
Step 2: Submit Documents
Where to submit the application: Visa applications can be submitted directly at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate, or through an authorized visa service.
Visa fees: The visa fee varies depending on the type of visa and processing time. Detailed fee information is available on the official website or will be announced directly at the Embassy/Consulate.
Step 3: Track and Collect Your Visa
After submitting your application, you may be required to attend an interview or provide additional information. Monitor the status of your application and be ready to provide any further documents if requested. Processing usually takes 4 to 5 business days, depending on the visa type and peak travel seasons.
Notes
Ensure that all the information you provide is accurate and complete.
Check the validity of your visa and the number of entries allowed to plan your trip accordingly.
During peak travel seasons or due to unforeseen circumstances (such as pandemics), the visa application process may change. Make sure to check for updated information from the Chinese Embassy/Consulate or the official website.
Where to Submit Your Chinese Visa Application
For the above-mentioned visa types, applicants need to submit their documents through the China Visa Application Service Center in Hanoi, Da Nang, or Ho Chi Minh City, instead of submitting them directly at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in Vietnam as before.
China Visa Application Service Center in Hanoi
Address: 7th Floor, Truong Thinh Building, Trang An Complex, 1 Phung Chi Kien Street, Nghia Do Ward, Cau Giay District, Hanoi.
Phone: 024 3275 3888.
Fax: 024 3202 6359.
Email: [email protected].
Working hours: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Monday to Friday (except public holidays and New Year).
Service area: 30 provinces and cities.
China Visa Application Service Center in Da Nang
Address: 8th Floor, Indochina Riverside Towers, 74 Bach Dang, Hai Chau District, Da Nang.
Tel: 023 6382 2211.
Fax: 023 6382 2212.
Email: [email protected].
Working hours: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday to Friday (except for public holidays and New Year).
Service area: 6 provinces and cities.
China Visa Application Service Center in Ho Chi Minh City
Address: P1607-1609, 16th Floor, Saigon Trade Center, 37 Ton Duc Thang Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
Tel: 0084-1900561599.
Email: [email protected].
Working hours: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday to Friday (except for public holidays and New Year).
Service area: 27 provinces and cities.
Note: VIP service hours are from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. If you opt for VIP service, you do not need to make an appointment like the regular service.
Latest Update:
As of October 21, 2023, the China Visa Service Center in Hanoi has:
Discontinued VIP document submission, only regular submission is allowed.
The center only accepts documents from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Monday to Friday.
Processing Time for China Visa Applications
The regular visa processing time is 4 business days from the date of submission.
Any additional document submission, verification of information, or cases involving force majeure will not be included in the regular visa processing time. If there are exceptional circumstances, applicants can request expedited or urgent processing, but this requires a justification letter and supporting documents.
Note:
The above time frame starts from the date the application is submitted. To submit your documents, you must book an online appointment in advance. The availability of appointments may vary depending on how many applicants there are at that time. Therefore, it’s advisable to schedule your submission about 18 business days before your trip.
The working hours mentioned above apply under normal circumstances. Some visa applications may require longer processing times, so the exact processing duration is uncertain. In such cases, applicants will need to wait for notification from the Embassy.
Currently, the Chinese Embassy does not offer expedited or urgent visa services. Therefore, those wishing to obtain a Chinese visa quickly must use the VIP service, where document submission doesn’t require an appointment, but the fee is higher.
The processing time for your application may vary and is subject to the Embassy's schedule.
A separate visa is required if you plan to visit Macau or Hong Kong.
Tourist Attractions in China
Beijing
As the capital of China, Beijing is home to many cultural and historical landmarks such as the Forbidden City, the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, the Summer Palace, and the Imperial Palace. Beijing Zoo and the Olympic Park are also popular spots for visitors of all ages.
The Forbidden City
Once the imperial palace and winter residence of Chinese emperors, the Forbidden City was the home of the emperors and their families from the Ming Dynasty (starting with Emperor Yongle) until the end of the Qing Dynasty, spanning from 1420 to 1924. It served as both the royal residence and the center for political and ceremonial governance of China for over 500 years.
The Forbidden City continues to attract a large number of tourists who come to admire its beauty and the historical stories embedded within its walls. This palace stands as a testament to the opulence of the place where Chinese emperors once lived, showcasing traditional Chinese palace architecture. Its influence extends beyond China, impacting the development of culture and architecture across East Asia and beyond.
The Summer Palace
The Summer Palace, also known as the Summer Palace, was constructed during the Qing Dynasty and spans over 2,900 square meters. Located 15 km northwest of Beijing, it is one of the last surviving examples of the architecture and relics from the 'Three Palaces and Five Gardens' of the imperial Qing era.
Shanghai
Shanghai is one of China's largest economic, financial, and cultural hubs. Famous internationally for its towering skyscrapers like the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center, the city also boasts vibrant ancient neighborhoods full of color and history.
Shanghai is also a hub for diverse culinary offerings from around the world, adding richness to China's gastronomic map. Visiting Shanghai allows tourists to experience not only the cultural variety and prosperity of one of the world's largest cities, but also the vibrant, dynamic life that defines this metropolis.
The Bund
The Bund is a famous symbol of Shanghai’s port city. Visitors will be surprised to find that despite being called 'the Bund,' there is no actual port here. Instead, it is a street that runs along the Huangpu River. This is where tourists can dive into the lively, bustling atmosphere of one of the world's most developed cities.
The Oriental Pearl Tower stands as one of Shanghai's most iconic landmarks. Situated in the Eastern part of the city by the Huangpu River, this 468-meter television tower was once the tallest structure in China until surpassed by the Shanghai Tower. The tower’s distinctive design, featuring three main columns and a series of large and small spheres, is easily recognizable. The largest central sphere resembles a string of pearls, reflecting shimmering images on the water's surface.
Jiangsu
Jiangsu Province, located in Eastern China, is a region that harmoniously blends traditional beauty with modern development. It is home to ancient gardens, charming canals, and historic cities such as Suzhou and Nanjing. Suzhou, with its UNESCO-recognized classical gardens, and Nanjing, the former capital of several Chinese dynasties, are must-see destinations. In addition to its rich cultural heritage, Jiangsu is famous for its diverse and exquisite cuisine, including the iconic Nanjing roast duck, offering visitors unforgettable culinary experiences.
Zhouzhuang Ancient Town
Zhouzhuang, located in Jiangsu Province, China, was built upon China's ancient canal system around 770–476 BC. Originally a small town named 'Zhenfengli' in the Yaocheng fief, it wasn't until the Northern Song Dynasty (960–1127 AD) that the name 'Zhouzhuang' was officially adopted.
Over 60% of the town’s buildings date back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties, with much of its traditional architecture still preserved. In 2004, Zhouzhuang was included on UNESCO’s World Heritage list as one of the world's cultural landmarks.
Chongqing
Chongqing, a major city in Southwestern China, is one of the four municipalities directly under China’s central government. Known as the 'Foggy City,' it is famous for its breathtaking mountain scenery, vast rivers, and unique caves and waterfalls. The confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers is one of the city’s most iconic sights.
The Millennia-Old Zhiqiangkou Town
The ancient town of Zhiqiangkou, formerly known as 'Longyin Old Street,' is located at 1 Cinan Road in Shapingba District, Chongqing. Situated along the banks of the Jialing River, it lies 5 km north of Shapingba's city center and 14 km from downtown Chongqing. Visitors to Zhiqiangkou can explore the Huangjiaobing Gate, Baolun Temple, the Royal Academy, Chungjia Garden, the ancient well, and more.
People's Liberation Monument
The People's Liberation Monument in Chongqing is considered the commercial heart of Yuzhong District. Originally a wooden structure, the monument was first erected on May 12, 1940, the anniversary of Dr. Yixian's death, which is why the memorial is sometimes referred to as 'Shen Fort.' Located at the junction of Mingzhu, Mingquan, and Zourong Streets in Yuzhong District, the 27.5-meter-high monument is surrounded by a bustling pedestrian area, perfect for a visit at any time of the day.
Guangdong
Known as the birthplace of Cantonese culture and cuisine, Guangdong is centered around the vibrant city of Guangzhou. Not only is it a bustling international economic and trade hub, but Guangdong is also renowned for its rich history and diverse culture. The province blends the old with the new, where ancient markets coexist alongside shopping districts and towering skyscrapers.
Zhejiang
Zhejiang is a coastal province in eastern China, renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural history, and diverse cuisine. The province is home to famous attractions such as Wuzhen, Xitang, West Lake, Putuo Mountain, and Thousand Island Lake. Considered an ideal destination for those who love to explore the beauty of nature, history, and Chinese culture, Zhejiang promises visitors unforgettable experiences.
West Lake
West Lake is a famous freshwater lake located to the west of Hangzhou in Zhejiang province, eastern China. It is one of the five most beautiful lakes in China and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage cultural site. Known for its picturesque natural scenery, clear waters, lush vegetation, and ancient homes that peek through the mist, West Lake offers a serene and harmonious landscape that captivates visitors.
Hainan
Often referred to as the 'Hawaii of the East,' Hainan is famous for its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking landscapes. The island is a melting pot of cultures, reflected in its diverse cuisine and the traditional festivals celebrated by its minority ethnic communities.
Yalong Bay
Á Long Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in Hainan Island, famous for its gently sloping shores, expansive sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters. It's often called the 'Hawaii of the East.' The bay is also home to a rich marine ecosystem with diverse plant life beneath the water. This makes it a perfect spot for outdoor activities like swimming and water sports.
Nam Son Cultural Tourism Area
The Nam Son Cultural Tourism Area is renowned for its unique statue of Avalokitesvara, known as the Vọng Hải Quan Thế Âm. This statue has three faces, each facing a different direction, symbolizing compassion, peace, and wisdom. The area is also distinguished by the local customs and traditions of its inhabitants. The entrance fee for this cultural site is around 150 Chinese Yuan, equivalent to more than 500,000 VND.
Yunnan
Yunnan is a province located in the southwest of China, renowned for its mysterious landscapes and rich cultural diversity, home to various ethnic minorities. The region is famous for Shangri-La, with its breathtaking views of the Himalayas, and Lijiang, where the ancient town is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Dali's ancient town is also a popular destination, attracting visitors with its historical charm and serene beauty. The region’s unique ethnic groups such as the Yi, Bai, Naxi, and Hani express their culture through distinctive cuisine, traditional arts, and colorful festivals, offering travelers a deep insight into their lifestyles and beliefs.
Ancient Huxian Town
Huxian Ancient Town is a small town located in Yunnan Province, China. It lies about 1 km east of Erhai Lake and approximately 2 km west of Shuangshan Mountain. The town consists of 13 smaller villages, with an estimated population of 54,779 people. The town is predominantly inhabited by the Bai ethnic group, with a smaller presence of Hui and Han people.
Sichuan
Sichuan is not only famous for its majestic landscapes and rich cultural heritage, but it also impresses visitors with its exceptional and diverse cuisine. Additionally, Sichuan is home to the world’s largest panda conservation center, where visitors can observe these iconic creatures in their natural habitat.
Chengdu Panda Center
This panda park is the largest panda conservation center in China. Located in Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, it is about 10 km from the city center. Established in 1987, the park serves as a sanctuary for many species of pandas, including over 30% of those that are critically endangered worldwide.
The Chengdu Panda Center spans an enormous area of over 9,000 square kilometers, featuring 9 distinct scenic areas. Among these, the most notable is the Panda Museum, which covers 4,000 square meters. Beyond pandas, the center is also home to numerous endangered species such as the clouded leopard and snow leopard.
Tongpan Ancient City
Tongpan, located in Sichuan Province, is one of the ancient cities that is also widely known as the 'City on the Plateau.' It is a national historical heritage site of China. Built during the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty, it served as a key point on the ancient 'Tea Horse Road,' facilitating trade and cultural exchange among the Tibetan, Han, Hui, and Qiang ethnic groups.
Heilongjiang
Heilongjiang is famous for its harsh winter, making it an ideal destination for the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival, one of the largest and most spectacular winter festivals in the world, where visitors can marvel at breathtaking ice and snow sculptures. The province is also home to the pristine forests of the Great Khingan Range, a vital nature reserve boasting rich and diverse ecosystems.
Polar Village
Polar Village is located in the town of Macha, within the Greater Khingan Mountains of Heilongjiang Province. It is an intriguing spot for experiencing awe-inspiring astronomical phenomena. During the summer solstice, the village attracts many Chinese tourists who come to witness the mesmerizing aurora borealis.
Harbin
When visiting Heilongjiang, China, a trip to Harbin is a must, especially to Zhaolin Park, where you can witness magnificent ice sculptures. Due to the area's icy landscape, the park hosts an impressive ice festival, showcasing intricate ice carvings. Covering an area of approximately 6,000 square kilometers, it uses 10,000 cubic meters of ice and holds the title of the largest indoor ice exhibition in the world, with the highest number of sculptures. The temperature inside the exhibition is carefully maintained between -10°C and 7°C.
Chinese Cuisine
Distinct Culinary Styles
Cantonese Cuisine
Renowned for its delicate cooking style, Cantonese cuisine emphasizes preserving the natural flavors of ingredients. It is known for being light, easy to eat, and widely popular. Some iconic dishes include dim sum, baozi (steamed buns), and crispy roast pork.
Beijing Cuisine
Beijing is famous for its iconic Peking duck, a dish often served with pancakes, cucumber, and hoisin sauce. The city is also known for its delicious Zha Jiang noodles, a must-try for anyone visiting.
Shanghai Cuisine
Characterized by its mild sweetness and delicate flavors, Shanghai cuisine offers tantalizing dishes such as red vinegar crab, herbal chicken stew, and small steamed buns.
Sichuan Cuisine
Sichuan cuisine is renowned for its bold, spicy flavors, primarily using chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns. Famous dishes include Kung Pao Chicken, Mapo Tofu, and Sichuan hotpot.
Things to Keep in Mind When Traveling to China
Prepare the Necessary Documents
Visa and Passport: Make sure you have obtained a valid Chinese visa and that your passport remains valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure. Carefully check the specific visa requirements and procedures based on your nationality.
Travel Insurance: Purchasing travel insurance is extremely important to ensure your safety and financial protection in case of health issues or accidents.
Understanding Local Culture and Customs
Respect Local Customs: China has a rich cultural diversity, with various customs and traditions that differ across regions. Be sure to learn about and respect these practices to avoid mistakes or offending the local people.
Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language of China, and communication in English can be challenging in many areas, especially outside major cities. Learning a few basic phrases in Chinese or carrying a dictionary can be very helpful.
Currency and Payments
Currency: The official currency of China is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). It's advisable to exchange some cash before your trip and use popular mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay or Alipay whenever possible.
ATMs and Credit Cards: Although credit cards are widely accepted in many places, there are still numerous shops and services that only accept cash or mobile payments.
Transportation and Getting Around
Public Transport: China's public transport system is modern and efficient, including subways, buses, and high-speed trains. Using travel apps can help you navigate easily and plan your routes.
Renting a Car and Driving: If you plan to rent a car and drive, keep in mind that China uses its own international driving permit, and the road conditions may be very different from what you're used to at home.
According to Mytour.vn
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Reference: Mytour.vn Travel Guide
Mytour.vnSeptember 9, 2024
