[NEW] A Complete Self-Guided Travel Guide to China from A to Z

Overview of China

In addition to being known as one of Asia’s major superpowers with remarkable development, China also impresses visitors with its stunning natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance, preserved almost intact over millennia.

Self-Guided Travel Tips for China A-Z (Image: @mafengwo.cn)

This vast country spans nearly 9.6 million square kilometers and is home to over 1.4 billion people. While China held the title of the most populous country for many years, it was surpassed by India in 2023. The country's large population contributes to its diversity, with 56 ethnic groups, including notable ones like Han, Manchu, Mongol, and Uighur.

The People's Republic of China is home to 4 centrally administered municipalities: Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, and Chongqing; 5 autonomous regions: Guangxi, Inner Mongolia, Ningxia, Xinjiang, and Tibet; 2 Special Administrative Regions: Hong Kong and Macau; and 22 provinces, including Sichuan, Fujian, Guangdong, and Yunnan.

Despite its vast territory stretching nearly 5000 kilometers, China's efforts to unify the country result in a single time zone, UTC+8, also known as Beijing Time, which is 1 hour ahead of Vietnam's UTC+7. So, if it's 7 AM in Vietnam, it will already be 8 AM in China.

Best Time to Travel to China for a Self-Guided Tour

China's vast territory is the main reason for its diverse climate zones, resulting in a clear seasonal temperature division with four distinct seasons throughout the year.

Spring

• Time: From March to May

Spring temperatures range from 0 to 10 degrees at the start of the season and 10 to 15 degrees towards the end. Though the temperatures increase and become noticeably warmer, it can still feel relatively chilly.

According to travel experiences in China, visitors should not miss the quintessential spring experiences, such as admiring the peony flowers at the ancient city of Luoyang from April 1st to May 5th, the vibrant cherry blossoms in Shanghai in April, and immersing themselves in various spring festivals celebrating the Lunar New Year, such as Tibet's Losar Festival and the Miao People's Sister's Rice Festival in February and March.

Travel Tips for Visiting China in Spring (Image: @smartshanghai)

Summer

• Time: From June to August

Summer temperatures often exceed 35 degrees, bringing a hot and scorching climate, especially in the northern regions. However, traveling west to the vast, green grasslands can offer a more pleasant temperature.

During the summer, visitors can join in some famous traditional festivals such as the Dragon Boat Race for the Duanwu Festival in June (5th day of the 5th lunar month) and the Saga Dawa religious festival in Tibet in June (23rd day of the 5th lunar month).

Self-Guided Summer Travel in China (Image: @miimilkquartz)

Autumn

• Time: From September to November

Autumn is considered the most beautiful season of the year, with average temperatures ranging from 22 to 28 degrees. If it's your first time traveling to China on your own, this is the best time to go, as the temperatures are the most comfortable of the year, and the landscapes are incredibly romantic.

Autumn in China offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in a mesmerizing natural landscape. Visitors can witness Beijing’s transformation as it dresses in vibrant shades of red and gold, or experience the 'paradise on earth' at the majestic Jiuzhaigou Valley, renowned for its poetic beauty.

Travel Tips for Visiting China in Autumn (Image: @storiesofbeijing)

Winter

• Time: From December to the end of February

Winter in China sees average temperatures dropping below freezing, with the cold air bringing high humidity, often resulting in biting cold temperatures.

However, this is the perfect time for those seeking winter sports like skiing or ice skating. Visitors can immerse themselves in Harbin’s Ice and Snow Festival, enjoy a skiing retreat at Xiling Snow Mountain, or indulge in the spicy flavors of Sichuan cuisine.

Winter in China and Practical Travel Tips for Visiting China (Image: @kenton.leung)

Additionally, due to its location in the subtropical and temperate monsoon zones, sunlight exposure is brief, making winters and springs generally very cold. In the summer, being located near the Tropic of Cancer, the sun shines directly on the northern hemisphere for extended hours, resulting in high temperatures and intense sunlight.

Each season in China offers its own unique characteristics, shaped by both time and place. However, for the best overall experience of the country, autumn is the ideal season to visit, as it offers the most comfortable temperatures across most regions.

Travel Tips for Visiting China - Preparing Before You Go

Entry Documents

There are two mandatory documents required for entry: a visa or a passport.

Visa

Visas are categorized into several types, with travelers typically receiving an L visa. This type allows for a single entry within a 3-month period, with a maximum stay of 15 days. The specific procedure for applying for a Chinese visa is as follows:

- Step 1: Prepare the required documents, including:

• Citizen identification card (front and back) and one notarized copy.
• Original passport and a photocopy with at least 6 months of validity and a minimum of 2 blank pages.
• Visa application form, appointment slip, and a copy of the household registration book if this is your first time traveling abroad.
• Financial proof: Bank account with a minimum balance of 50,000,000 VND.
• Documents supporting your trip, itinerary details, flight tickets, etc.
• Two x4.5 photos, facing forward, with no glasses, ears and forehead visible, on a white background.

- Step 2: Schedule an appointment and submit your documents. At this stage, you will be asked several questions related to your trip.

- Step 3: Pay the fee at the cashier counter, verify the receipt, and check the result return time.

- Step 4: Collect the result according to the appointment slip.

Note: The Chinese Embassy does not directly collect fees. Instead, payments are made through the Bank of China. The consular fee must be paid in US dollars (USD), while the CVASC (Chinese Visa Application Service Center) fee is payable in Vietnamese Dong (VND). In case of a visa rejection, the consular fee will be refunded, but the CVASC fee will not.

If you're new to applying for a visa on your own, you can seek advice from reputable travel agencies like Mytour Travel. With 15 years of experience in the tourism industry, Mytour proudly offers fast and affordable Chinese visa services.

Chinese Tourist Visa

Travel Permit

The travel permit is commonly used by independent travelers to China, especially at popular border points like Yunnan, Hekou, and Dongxing. The process for obtaining a travel permit is much simpler compared to applying for a visa. Specifically:

• Step 1: Prepare the required documents:

Adults must prepare their national ID card (both sides) and one 4x6 photo.

Children must prepare an application form for the travel permit, one 4x6 photo, and a birth certificate.

Note: The photo should be taken with a straight gaze, no glasses, and with ears and forehead visible, against a white background.

• Step 2: Submit your documents at the relevant agency or border checkpoint where you plan to enter or exit.
• Step 3: Pay the fee for the Chinese travel permit.
• Step 4: Once the process is complete, collect the travel permit from the agency or border checkpoint where you initially submitted your documents.

Note: Be sure to present the receipt, payment slip, and ID card when collecting the travel permit. In case the permit is lost, you will need to file a report and apply for a new permit as per the regulations.

Transportation to China

Airplane

There are many direct and connecting flights to China, with flexible flight times depending on the destination, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, or Chengdu. The flight duration from Vietnam to major cities in China typically ranges from 3 to 5 hours for direct flights and 7 hours to 2 days for flights with 1 or 2 stops.

With quick flight times and a variety of flight options, air travel to China is the top choice for travelers with limited time. However, it is usually more expensive compared to other transportation options like buses or trains.

Flight prices for China travel in August 2024

*Flight prices do not include taxes and fees and may vary depending on the flight date

Cars, buses

Travelers can also choose to drive to China by road. Although this mode of transportation takes a considerable amount of time, it is often cheaper, making it ideal for those seeking an adventurous experience and typically traveling to China independently with a travel permit.

For road travel, visitors will take a car or bus to border crossings in Quang Ninh, Lang Son, or Lao Cai, complete the immigration process, and then continue their journey by taxi or train to the planned tourist destinations in China.

Train

Visitors can also travel to China by train. Trains typically depart from Gia Lam Station in Hanoi, heading to destinations such as Nanning and Beijing.

Trains are not only a budget-friendly option but also provide a comfortable private cabin experience, allowing passengers to enjoy scenic views of both countries throughout the journey. However, like buses, this mode of transport may not be suitable for those with limited time.

The travel time from Vietnam to China by train typically ranges from 11 to 30 hours, with ticket prices ranging from 1,000,000 to 2,000,000 VND one way. Tickets can be purchased directly at Gia Lam Station, Le Duan Station, or through the official website of China Railways.

Travel Tips for China by Train (Photo: @manugrahraditya)

Travel Tips for China - Purchasing a SIM Card

China has long been known for operating in its own 'universe' when it comes to social media, search engines, and news websites. This means that accessing Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, or Google via Wi-Fi won't be as straightforward. Therefore, purchasing a Chinese SIM card for use is essential.

Chinese SIM cards are available in two types: those purchased in Vietnam and those bought within China. Although both types use local mobile networks, according to travel experiences in China, buying a SIM card in Vietnam tends to be more cost-effective, avoiding the complexities of registration. Specifically:

Purchase a China Travel SIM from Mytour Travel

Especially when traveling independently in China, it's crucial to buy a SIM card from a reliable company to prevent interruptions in your communication once you arrive. Consider purchasing your SIM card through Mytour Travel, which offers a variety of plans, reasonable prices, and a commitment to high-quality service.

Currency Exchange for China

China uses the Renminbi (CNY) as its official currency, with an exchange rate of 1 CNY = 3,500 VND. You can use both paper money and coins, or make payments online via Alipay or WeChat. In addition to exchanging Chinese currency at airports and banks, you can also exchange Renminbi at certain stores in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City with the following reasonable rates:

- Hanoi:

• Quốc Trinh Gold Shop, 27 Hà Trung, Hàng Bông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi.
• Bao Tin Minh Chau Precious Metals, 19 Trần Nhân Tông, Bùi Thị Xuân, Hanoi.
• Bao Tin Mạnh Hải Gold and Silver, 39 Nguyễn Trãi, Thanh Xuân, Hanoi.

- Ho Chi Minh City:

• Hà Tâm Gold Shop, 2 Nguyễn An Ninh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
• Kim Hoang Sai Gon Center, 40-42 Phan Bội Châu, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
• Kim Châu Gold Shop, 784 Điện Biên Phủ, P.10, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City.

Chinese Renminbi (CNY) (Image: @economicdaily__china)

Where to Go When Traveling Independently in China

With its vast size and cultural differences across regions, if you're planning an independent trip to China, make sure to research your accommodation options, prices, and routes to create the most efficient itinerary. Below are some popular hotels that travelers love to choose:

Booking Hotels Based on Real China Travel Experience (Image: @booking)

Traveling Around China Independently: A Practical Guide

Airplanes

With its vast size and extensive flight network, booking flights in China is relatively easy with numerous options available. Air travel is typically fast, ensuring schedules are met for those who prefer efficient travel but are pressed for time.

However, flight tickets can be quite expensive, with average prices starting at around 3,000,000 VND per trip (including taxes and fees).

Booking Flights for Independent Travel in China

Buses

Similar to most countries, buses are one of the most commonly used forms of public transportation in China. The advantage of this mode is that it has an extensive route network, reaching almost all major tourist destinations. With easily accessible bus stations and frequent departures, it is a convenient option. Bus fares in China typically range around 2 CNY per ride (approximately 7,000 VND).

However, most bus routes no longer accept cash payments, transitioning instead to contactless payments via digital wallets. This is something travelers should be aware of. Additionally, buses are prone to heavy traffic, which can result in significant delays due to complex congestion issues.

Subway

Subways in China are also a popular and convenient mode of transportation. Not only do they help avoid traffic jams, but subways are also relatively fast, ensuring timely travel to most city destinations.

Subway fares in China generally range from 3 to 15 CNY per trip (approximately 10,000 to 50,000 VND). The subway stations can be quite complex, and the distance between platforms and exits is often considerable. Therefore, if it's your first time using the subway or if you're traveling independently in China, it's important to carefully plan your route in advance.

The subway system in China (Image: @benschoptravel)

Taxi

If you don't have time to study the routes or how to navigate by bus or subway, a taxi is your best solution. Taxis are flexible, abundant, and the drivers are knowledgeable about the routes. Independent travelers in China can confidently book a taxi via apps, with features like GPS tracking, route planning, and clear pricing.

However, traveling by taxi in China may still involve encountering traffic jams. Moreover, taxi fares can be quite expensive, typically starting at 10 - 12 CNY (35,000 - 40,000 VND) for the first 3 kilometers, with prices decreasing thereafter.

China Travel Tips - Choosing the Most Famous Destinations

Tourist attractions in China offer both stunning natural beauty and a rich historical and cultural heritage. Here are some must-visit destinations when traveling to the country of over a billion people.

The Forbidden City

Beyond its ancient beauty, the Forbidden City is renowned for its unique architecture and is home to precious artifacts that stand as a testament to the proud history of the Chinese people. With over 500 years of history and having survived through multiple dynasties, it would be a shame to visit Beijing without exploring this grand palace.

• Address: No. 4, Jingshan Road, Dongcheng District, Beijing, China.
• Ticket Price: April - October: 60 RMB per person (230,000 VND); November - March: 40 RMB per person (150,000 VND).
• Opening Hours: April - October: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM; November - March: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM.

Touring Beijing and Shanghai to visit the Forbidden City (Photo: @erik_is_tired)

The Tomb of Qin Shi Huang

The Tomb of Qin Shi Huang is surrounded by some of the most mysterious stories, many of which remain unsolved. Located in a sacred land, this tomb honors the emperor who founded the Qin dynasty, the first to unify China. Thousands of ancient artifacts, terracotta warriors, and weapons have been excavated and displayed, yet the actual location of Qin Shi Huang's tomb remains undiscovered.

• Address: Lintong, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
• Ticket Price: 120 CNY per person (500,000 VND)
• Opening Hours: April - October: 08:30 AM - 6:30 PM; November - March: 08:30 AM - 6:00 PM.

The Great Wall of China

Regarded as one of the greatest human-made wonders in history, the Great Wall of China boasts over 2,500 years of history, stretching across more than 21,000 kilometers and spanning 9 provinces. Construction began in the 5th century BC and continued into the 16th century to protect China's borders from invading forces.

• Address: Located in the northern part of China, the Great Wall stretches from east to west through provinces such as Beijing, Tianjin, Heilongjiang, and Shaanxi…
• Ticket Price: 220,000 - 1,000,000 VND for entry, or entry with cable car included.
• Opening Hours: April - October: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM; November - March: 08:00 AM - 04:30 PM.

Explore the famous Great Wall of China in Beijing (Photo: @aleginne)

The Phoenix Ancient Town

A small ancient town in Hunan Province, Fenghuang Ancient Town, with its over 1,300-year history, still preserves its original architecture and local cultural heritage. Visitors can experience the beauty of the Da River, the lifeblood of the town, as well as the Hong Bridge and learn about the cultures of the Miao and Tujia ethnic groups.

• Address: Fenghuang County, Western Hunan Province, China.
• Ticket Price: Free of charge.
• Opening Hours: No time restrictions.

Jiuzhaigou

Often called a paradise on earth with its four distinct seasons, Jiuzhaigou is a county in Sichuan Province and part of the Tibetan Plateau. It is famous for its jade-green waterfalls, ancient forests, snow-capped peaks, and majestic valleys, offering visitors indescribable emotions.

• Address: Jiuzhaigou, Sichuan, China.
• Ticket Price: April - October: 300 RMB (1,150,000 VND); November - March: 100 RMB (380,000 VND).
• Opening Hours: April - October: 07:00 AM - 07:00 PM; November - March: 08:00 AM - 06:00 PM.

Travel tips for visiting China and exploring the paradise of Jiuzhaigou (Photo: @arktistry.makeup)

The most popular travel routes in China for 2024.

Whether you opt for a full-package tour or a DIY trip in China, let Mytour act as your guide to some of the must-see routes in your journey through the land of the dragon.

Beijing - Shanghai - Hangzhou - Wuzhen

This is one of the most popular travel routes for a 6-day, 5-night tour of China. In addition to experiencing the modern beauty of the Bund in Shanghai, travelers will immerse themselves in history through small ancient towns, the thousands-of-years-old Great Wall, and intricately designed temples from the Song Dynasty.

Exploring the cradle of Eastern culture along this route usually takes 7 days and 6 nights, or 6 days and 5 nights depending on the purpose and time available for each trip.

Touring the Beijing - Shanghai - Hangzhou - Wuzhen route (Photo: @shanghaieye)

Shanghai - Hangzhou - Suzhou

The Shanghai - Hangzhou - Suzhou tour is a shorter and more condensed version of the golden route. If you've already visited Beijing or don't have enough time to explore the full itinerary mentioned above, this route is perfect for you.

In just 5 days and 4 nights, visitors can experience the modernity of Shanghai while also stepping back in time to explore the ancient towns of Hangzhou and Suzhou, with their millennia-old charm.

Zhangjiajie - Phoenix Ancient Town

This well-known and relatively easy-to-reach route from Vietnam allows you to explore ancient towns built in the unique style of the Miao and Tujia people. It also takes you to the magical Zhangjiajie, home to more than 3,000 sandstone pillars of various shapes.

Along with its picturesque beauty and affordable costs, travelers considering the Zhangjiajie - Phoenix Ancient Town tour can opt for either air travel or road travel. The flexible itinerary ranges from 5 days and 4 nights to 6 days and 5 nights, catering to the schedule of each traveler.

Travel tips for exploring Phoenix Ancient Town, China (Photo: @chinese_architecture)

Kunming - Dali - Lijiang - Shangrila

This route is perfect for those seeking solace and relaxation. Visitors can choose to travel independently or join a complete Lijiang tour to experience the unique culture of the local ethnic groups, explore the ancient city of Lijiang, uncover the mysteries of the immortal Shangrila, and witness the year-round snow-covered peaks of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

With options ranging from 5 days and 4 nights to 6 days and 5 nights, the Kunming - Dali - Lijiang - Shangrila route will be a highlight of your journey through China. Who knows, you might even meet the 'Tao Chi Dao' of your life?

Yunnan travel, Lijiang, Dali, Shangrila exploration

Hekou - Pingbian - Mong Cai

In recent years, Hekou has become quite popular due to its short journey and budget-friendly costs. The Hekou - Pingbian - Mong Cai route will surely surprise you with every stop, from the ancient town of Jian Shui that feels like stepping back in time to the mini version of Phoenix Ancient Town in Miao Tribe's Zhi Shui.

Hekou travel is a great fit for those planning an independent trip to China, with a short itinerary of 3 days and 4 nights, primarily traveling by land through the Lao Cai International Border Gate.

Chengdu - Jiuzhaigou

Explore the panda paradise and savor the signature spicy Sichuan cuisine on the Chengdu - Jiuzhaigou route. This journey allows visitors to fully experience three heavenly places: Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou, and Dujiangyan, explore Tibetan villages hidden in mountain gorges, and marvel at the world's tallest stone statue of the Leshan Giant Buddha.

Travelers can explore this route with a 6-day, 5-night itinerary. Many direct flights from Vietnam to Chengdu are available, making the trip faster and more convenient than ever.

Must-try Chinese specialties

Peking Duck

When mentioning Beijing, one cannot miss the famous Peking Duck. This iconic Chinese dish represents the essence of Beijing cuisine, offering an incredibly appealing color and flavor. The duck is typically marinated with special spices, and when roasted, it forms a crispy golden-brown skin, while the meat inside remains tender and smooth.

• Address: Siji Minfu Restaurant Peking Roast Duck - No.32 Dengshikou West Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing.
• Estimated price: Around 285.00 - 710.000 VND.

Explore Beijing and experience the famous Peking Duck (Image: @mott32vegas)

Emperor's Chicken

A renowned and flavorful dish from the Sichuan and Guizhou regions, Emperor's Chicken offers a perfect combination of tender, sweet chicken meat and the distinctive spicy heat of chili peppers, providing an irresistibly captivating culinary experience.

• Address: Chenmapo Sichuan Restaurant - 10 Qinghua Road, Qingyang District, Chengdu, Sichuan.
• Estimated price: 250,000 - 382,000 VND.

'Buddha Jumps Over the Wall'

Considered a high-end delicacy and a signature dish of Fujian cuisine, 'Buddha Jumps Over the Wall' is traditionally made with luxurious ingredients like abalone, fish maw, scallops, and chicken breast, slow-cooked with Shaoxing wine and steamed in individual pots.

• Address: Ju ChunYuan Fo TiaoQiang Restaurant - TaiJiang District WuYi Middle Road 151, Huaneng Mansion 2 Floor, Fuzhou, Fujian.
• Estimated price: 2,500,000 - 10,000,000 VND.

Travel tips for China, savor the famous 'Buddha Jumps Over the Wall' dish (Photo: @shutterstock)

Chinese Lamb Hotpot

When booking a Beijing tour, be sure to try the lamb hotpot. Offering a completely unique flavor experience, this dish combines tender, fresh lamb with a broth made from various herbs, creating a distinctive and irresistible taste.

• Address: Yang DaYe Instant-boiled Mutton - WenQuan Town, HeiLongTan Road, Beijing.
• Estimated price: 630,000 - 2,000,000 VND.

Crossing Bridge Noodles

Unlike regular noodle dishes, the famous Crossing Bridge Noodles require fresh ingredients, flavorful broth, and meticulous presentation. This specialty from Yunnan is traditionally served by pouring the hot broth into a stone or porcelain bowl first, followed by noodles, meat, shrimp, eggs, and vegetables. Everything is beautifully arranged on a tray shaped like a bridge.

• Address: Qiaoxiangyuan Guoqiao Noodle - 1F, HaoYouDuo Supermarket, No.63 Renmin East Road, Kunming.
• Estimated price: 340,000 VND.

Experience the unique Crossing Bridge Noodles, a specialty of Yunnan, China (Photo: @mttmp.com)

Sichuan Tofu

With its simple preparation, mainly made from soft tofu and minced meat, Sichuan Tofu offers visitors a taste of Northern China's cuisine with its unforgettable spicy and numbing flavors.

• Address: Chen Mapo tofu - 197 Xi Yu Long St West Jade Dragon St, Chengdu.
• Estimated price: 250,000 - 382,000 VND.

Experience Sichuan Tofu through your China travel adventure (Photo: @ashboxcafe)

Dumplings

A famous dish with significant cultural value to the Chinese, dumplings are typically present during all holidays and are considered an essential part of the festive spirit. The shrimp or meat filling is wrapped in a thin dough, and when boiled or steamed, the dumplings have a chewy texture that leaves a lasting impression on the taste buds.

• Address: Niuge Jiaozi - 85 Nanheyan Dajie South Chaoyang, Beijing.
• Estimated price: 62,000 - 170,000 VND.

Tips for buying souvenirs while traveling in China.

Calligraphy

Calligraphy is a unique art form of handwritten characters, symbolizing Chinese culture from ancient times to the present. With the use of a calligraphy brush and inkstone, elegant strokes are created, each with its own distinct meaning, making it a truly unique gift.

• Suggested locations: Temples in Beijing, Calligraphy with an Artist in Shanghai.

Traveling in Shanghai and Beijing, purchase calligraphy as a souvenir (Photo: @chinese.calligraphy)

Jade

Crafted with intricate designs and available in various styles, purchasing jade souvenirs not only offers high utility value but also represents a noble beauty deeply rooted in Chinese culture.

• Suggested shopping locations: Guangzhou Jade Market, He Tian Xinjiang, Tu Nham Liu Ning.

Tea

As the largest tea exporter in the world, China is known for its famous varieties such as green tea, black tea, oolong, and Tie Guan Yin. Tea is considered a healthy gift, easy to store, and widely available, making it a popular choice that can be found anywhere.

• Suggested location: Beijing Tea Houses - 18 Guanshuyuan Hutong, Yonghegong.

Travel tips for China: Buying tea as a souvenir (Photo: @chineseteastore.batam)

Silk

Renowned for its Silk Road and unique products woven from this precious material, Chinese silk is of the highest quality with vibrant colors, often sold for its premium craftsmanship and high practical value.

• Suggested shopping location: Silk Street & Pearl Market - No.8 Xiushui East Str, Chaoyang District, Beijing.

Snacks

A perfect gift option, affordable and highly popular among all types of people, Chinese snacks come in a wide variety of flavors, with a distinctive taste of spice and sweetness that varies by region.

• Suggested locations: Available at most supermarkets, convenience stores, and food markets.

Snacks are a great option for souvenirs when traveling independently in China (Photo: @chinese.snacks)

Dried Fruits

Similar to Vietnamese preserved plums, Chinese dried fruits are typically sweet, made by directly dehydrating various fruits. Besides their nutritional value, they are also a convenient and affordable gift option.

• Suggested locations: Available at most supermarkets, convenience stores, and food markets.

Cost of traveling in China

China tour costs range from 3,790,000 to 23,890,000 VND, depending on the itinerary, route, and selected destinations. Based on travel experience in China, tours typically include round-trip flights, hotels, meals, entrance fees, transport, and a guide throughout the journey.

For those who love exploring, self-guided travel in China allows you to create your own itinerary according to your interests. Below is a sample 5-day, 4-night travel plan to Beijing and Shanghai, with estimated costs:

The costs provided above are estimates based on the Beijing-Shanghai route and do not include additional expenses for shopping or food.

Tips for independent travelers in China

Whether you choose to travel independently in China or join a specific tour, be sure to quickly “pick up” some practical travel tips and important things to note as outlined below:

• China blocks all common global networks and apps, so it's advisable to buy a travel SIM card in Vietnam beforehand to ensure continuous communication. This will also help you avoid complicated SIM registration procedures in China.
• When exchanging Renminbi in Vietnam, it's helpful to get various denominations, especially smaller ones. It may seem a bit heavy to carry, but China relies heavily on electronic payments, and when buying small items, you may struggle to get change.
• Download a translation app or learn some basic phrases for directions, pricing, and communication, as local Chinese people, especially older shopkeepers, may not be fluent in English.
• Always carry tissues, wet wipes, and personal hygiene items throughout your journey. Public restrooms, especially in traditional restaurants, often have squat toilets with no toilet paper provided.
• Prepare a 3-prong plug adapter for use with China's electrical outlets.

China remains one of the hottest destinations on the global travel map. We hope this China travel guide provides you with plenty of useful information for your upcoming adventure in the land of over a billion people. If you're new to independent travel, consider booking a comprehensive China tour with Mytour Travel for the ultimate experience!

Author: Dung

Photo Source: Dung & Internet