China Travel Guide

China is one of the most mysterious travel destinations in the world, and one of the most rewarding. Most people picture it as complicated, expensive, or off limits, and most people are wrong. I had such an incredible time seeing it with my own eyes. And no…you’re not under lock and key when you visit.

Beijing alone is worth the trip. Ancient temples sitting next to modern skyscrapers, food that bears zero resemblance to what you get back home, and a culture so different from anywhere in the West that it genuinely resets your perspective. Oh ya, and the Great Wall of China exists.

This guide covers what you actually need to know before you go…based on time spent there.  If you’re from the West, you have probably been misinformed by the propaganda, but I’m here to clear things up.

Capital Beijing
Currency Chinese Yuan (CNY) - 1 USD ≈ 7.2 CNY
Language Mandarin (English very limited outside major cities)
Best Time to Visit Apr - May or Sep - Oct (mild, less crowded)
Visa Visa required for most nationalities — apply in advance
Getting Around Metro, DiDi ride share, high speed rail
Budget $50–100/day mid-range; very affordable for food
Internet VPN is crucial

Where To Stay

🏙️ Beijing
District Description Best For
Dongcheng Central district closest to the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Temple of Heaven. Most tourist-friendly area. First-time visitors, sightseeing
Sanlitun Beijing's expat and nightlife hub. Packed with international restaurants, rooftop bars, and designer stores. Nightlife, dining, luxury
Wangfujing Major shopping street right in the heart of the city. Great street food market nearby and easy metro access. Shopping, street food
Nanluoguxiang Historic hutong alley area with boutique guesthouses, cafes, and a relaxed local feel. Great for walking. Culture, boutique stays
🏙️ Shanghai
District Description Best For
The Bund Shanghai's most iconic strip along the Huangpu River. Colonial architecture on one side, Pudong skyline on the other. Premium hotels throughout. Luxury, iconic views
French Concession Tree-lined streets, boutique hotels, excellent cafes and restaurants. One of the most pleasant areas to walk around in all of China. Mid-range, dining, walking
Pudong Modern financial district home to the famous skyline. Closer to the airport and great for business travelers or those wanting a futuristic feel. Business travel, luxury
Jing'an Central, well connected by metro, good mix of shopping and dining. Slightly more affordable than The Bund without sacrificing location. Mid-range, central location
🏙️ Hong Kong
District Description Best For
Tsim Sha Tsui Kowloon side with the best views of Hong Kong Island skyline. Great transport links, shopping, and a wide range of hotels at all price points. First-time visitors, all budgets
Central Hong Kong's business and financial hub on Hong Kong Island. Premium hotels, upscale dining, and easy access to the Peak Tram and nightlife. Luxury, business travel
Mong Kok Dense, chaotic and authentic. Markets, street food, and budget accommodation. One of the most densely populated areas on earth — not for everyone. Budget, local experience
Wan Chai Between Central and Causeway Bay. Good mid-range hotel options, lively bar scene, and easy metro access across the island. Mid-range, nightlife
🏙️ Chengdu
District Description Best For
Jinjiang Central district with the best hotel options, close to Chunxi Road shopping and Tianfu Square. Most convenient base for first-time visitors. First-time visitors, central
Kuanzhai Alley Area Historic narrow alley district with traditional architecture, teahouses, and street food. One of Chengdu's most atmospheric spots. Culture, food, boutique stays
High-Tech Zone Modern southern district popular with business travelers. Newer hotels and good transport links but further from the main tourist areas. Business travel, modern hotels
🏙️ Chongqing
District Description Best For
Jiefangbei Chongqing's central business district built across dramatic hills. Home to the famous Liberation Monument, endless hotpot restaurants, and the best hotel selection in the city. First-time visitors, central
Hongyadong Iconic stilted riverside district built into the cliffs above the Jialing River. One of the most visually stunning areas in all of China, especially at night. Sightseeing, atmosphere
Nanbin Road Riverside strip on the south bank with great views of the city skyline. Popular for evening walks, outdoor dining, and a more relaxed pace than central Chongqing. Views, dining, mid-range

Things To Do In Beijing