China
Destination Guide

The Ultimate Guide Before You Plan for your Next Trip

The land of the mythical creatures and tranquil gardens beckons the most adventurous souls to explore one of the largest and the most culturally enriched countries of the world. With historical monuments dating back to several millennia and captivating natural landscapes, China is definitely one of the most attractive countries for the tourists to explore. At one side there is the historic cities like Beijing and Xian with its enchanting destinations and charming lifestyles on the other side you can witness the glamour and glitters of cities like Shanghai and Shenzhen.

Attractions in China

China weaves a mystical web with the threads of tranquility and magic. To get inside that web is every traveler's dream as it will allow him/her to explore the history and the natural beauty of this large country.

Bund

The Bund, also known as the Zhongshan Lu, is a very popular river-side promenade in Shanghai. The pedestrian zone stretched along the banks of Huangpu Jiang River is popular for its European appeal. The mesmerizing promenade will make you forget that you are actually in the middle of one of the busiest cities of entire Asia. The peace and tranquility the place offers is unmatched as you can enjoy the sights of the pretty gardens and the Art-Deco style buildings. The Bund is also popular for its 52 selected buildings which are preserved for the tourists. The buildings echo a distinct Victorian and French architectural styles.

Hangzhou's West Lake

Popularly known as China's Grand Canal this site is a major tourist attraction in the city of Hangzhou. The large concentration of water at the middle of the city offers a spectacular sight for the tourists as they can witness the various hills, temples, and pagodas surrounding the lake. The entire stretch of water is divided into 5 sections, which were built during the 11th century and the pedestrian area is actually pretty charming to be explored on foot. There are clusters of quaint buildings surrounded by gardens of peach trees. You can also hop into the Little Paradise Island by crossing the marvelous Bridge of Nine Arches.

The Oriental Pearl Tower

Glorifying the Shanghai skyline is the 468 meter long Oriental Pearl Radio and TV tower. This iconic landmark of Shanghai was built back in the year 1991 and ever since its establishment it has marked the importance of Shanghai in the global map, as a major financial hub. Tourists can go take a view of the magnificent cosmopolitan city from the observational deck kept on the 350 meters mark, and the glass windows of the deck helps the tourists to enjoy the sight. There are as many as 15 viewing centers and the tower also have a nice shopping mall on the ground floor.

Beihai Park

A few minute walk from the Imperial Palace of Beijing will let you reach this oldest and one of the biggest Imperial Gardens of the country. The ancient city of Beijing has a different kind of a charm and this park is the perfect place to relish it. The North Lake of Behai adds to the beauty of the place as you can witness some of the important Chinese architecture like the Round Fort which dates back to the Yuan period of the 13th century. Then there is of course the Hall of Enlightenment which was built in the year 1690 housing a sculpture of Lord Buddha, marking the strong Buddhist influence on the nation.

The Terracotta Army

Since its discovery back in the 1970's the Terracotta Army has been the center of discussions of every historian. Now open for public viewing this site in the ancient city of Xian is definitely a major tourist attraction. Spread across a large underground pit this site will definitely give you the chills because of the life-like features of each and every statue in this place. Such is the minute detailing of the architecture that a thought will definitely pass your mind that some Chinese wizard has converted an entire Shi Huang army into stone. This part of the Emperor Qin Shi Huang's Mausoleum Site Park is certainly a must-visit place for the tourists.

Tiananmen Square

Easily the world's largest inner-city square this place is considered to be the birthplace of Communist China. Known for its famous student revolution back in the year 1919 this place is now a site which tourists come to witness the fascinating monuments and museums representing the modern day communist era of China. There is of course the Monument to the People's Heroes highlighting the sucess of the students' movement along with a massive Museum of the Chinese Revolution which showcases the various stages of this great revolution.

The Great Wall of China

The most iconic architecture of the Chinese history is certainly the most popular tourist attraction of the country. However, due to its sheer size and overall age, it is merely impossible for a tourist to see the wall entirely. That is why some of the renovated and restored portions of the wall is only open for tourist attraction. One such spot is the Badaling Pass, which is found at the northwest corner of the city of Beijing. Regular tours are being arranged in this place thereby allowing the tourists to relish the magnificence of this great wall.

Yu Garden

Located in the northeastern borders of the old town of Shanghai this 16th century garden pulls a lot of tourists, throughout the year. The oldest section of this enchanting garden is known as the Outer Garden which is known for its ornamental roof designs. Then there is of course the Hall of Spring with its exotic appeal and enchanting decor. This hall was the headquarters of the Company of Little Swords and till date holds many scenic appeal. Then there is of course the marvelous Inner Gardens , which was built around the early 1700's and it a classic Chinese winter garden with its decorative pebbles and miniatures mountain ranges.

Bund

Hangzhou's West Lake

The Oriental Pearl Tower

Beihai Park

The Terracotta Army

Tiananmen Square

The Great Wall of China

Yu Garden

Bund

Hangzhou's West Lake

The Oriental Pearl Tower

Beihai Park

Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in Chengdu

Thanks to the animation movie Kung Fu Panda, the beautiful creature of Giant Panda has become the national symbol of China. There are many specimens of pandas available in all the major Chinese zoos but a visit to the research base gives you an experience of a lifetime. Located in the Sichuan province of China this research center will give you an opportunity to witness the daily routine of as many as 80 giant pandas, of all sizes and shapes.

Najing Road

Shanghai's shopping lane will not only spoil you with options but at the same time will give you a pupil dilating experience. The pedestrian friendly streets of this area was built back in the early stages of the 19th century and it essentially offers the tourists with a great shopping experience. From art and craft to fashion wear, from food vendors to the antique sellers, there are plenty of Chinese merchants you will meet on the street of Najing. There are plenty of food stalls from where you can try authentic Chinese street food and you can also venture to the affluent shopping zone of Xintiandi.

Nanshan Mountains

The Nanshan mountain of the Shenzhen province proves that China's attractions are not just limited to historical sights and architectures. The natural beauty and landscape of the Chinese borders is also there to mesmerize you and give you feel of tranquility up there in the majestic heights. As a traveler you often have to decide between a mountain or a sea-side destination, but in case of the Nanshan Mountains you do not need to choose. Lying around the coastal borders of Hong Kong this beautiful mountain range is a moderate climb and it also allows you to enjoy the view of the ocean.

Li River

Running through the middle of China's most beautiful countryside the Li River is indeed another natural beauty of the country. The picture perfect set-up of this lovely river and the adjoining lake will transport you to another world as you can witness sites which has inspired many poets and artists to create great folklore and fairy-tales about this place. You should definitely board the cruise from the city of Guangxi and sail across the river leaving behind the villages,the bamboo forests, the mystical rock formations and also the dense formation of the reed-beds. You can witness the Mount of Unique Beauty and also the Elephant Trunk Hill amongst many other mesmerizing sights.

Xiaomeisha beaches

The coastlines of the Shenzhen province stretches into some fascinating beaches with lots of amenities and excitements in offer, for the tourists. Starting from the reefs to the caves, the scattered islands to the cliffs, there are plenty of natural beauty for a tourist to savor. Then there is of course the delightful seafood restaurants serving you the freshest of the catches. There are lobster aquariums which will allow you to choose your lunch and then relax under the warm Chinese sun for the rest of the day. This beach attracts a lot of foreigners and it is well maintained compared to the other parts of the province.

In the Spotlight

Whilst there is a dedicated China Town in almost all the major cities of the globe, having Chinese cuisine in the country itself is a different experience altogether. From the famous Peking ducks to the smell of the soya sauce you will get to explore a different version of Chinese cuisine, here in China. Apart from authentic Chinese food many places now also serve Italian, French, and even Indian cuisine.

Laris : The biggest and the most prominent restaurant in Shanghai and even China has obtained several brilliant reviews for obvious reasons. Located on the Bund this restaurant is one of the most posh eateries in entire China. Read More

The swanky interior decor will dazzle you for certain as the seafood served on your plate will just melt in your mouth. Due to its close proximity to the sea, the restaurant is well-known for its fabulous fish and crab preparations and there is certainly some good news for the chocolate lovers as this restaurant is also a chocolatier making original chocolates for guests. Read less

Beijing Da Dong Roast Duck Restaurant : A paradise for duck lovers, this multi-award winning restaurant is a definite hot-spot in Beijing. The Peking roast duck menu which the restaurant has cultivated over the years is now regarded as one of the most authentic roast duck flavors of China Read More

and you will often face a huge queue of people waiting outside the restaurant doors, awaiting their turn to get in. With it is minimalist decor and a hustling kitchen environment this place is also for its wide variety of soups and vegetable sides. The popularity of this place is such that, more than an eatery this place is now has converted into a popular tourist destination. Read less

M on the Bund: Located on the 7th floor of the Nissin Shipping Building this restaurant is known for its exotic view from the large glass windows. Overlooking the Huangpu River and the city of Pudong this eatery offers its guests a luxurious ambiance and a fabulous menu to choose from. Read More

A wide variety of European, North African, and Australian cuisines are available in this place, signifying Shanghai's international inclinations. Bund itself has a very unique pro-European vibe and this particular restaurant just complements the entire environment of the place. Many foreigners often visit this place as this place also hosts some fabulous events. Read less

Country Kitchen : This Beijing eatery will allow you to taste some of China's most worshiped recipes in its true and authentic form. This open kitchen restaurant brings forward some of the old Cantonese delights like in the form of Peking duck and Inner Mongolian lamb leg roast. Read More

This is one of the few places in entire China where you will find the delicious Shaanxi noodles and the Rosewood furnishing of the entire place will allow you savor the flavor of the orientals. The restaurant claims to bring back some of the recipes from the Qing dynasty and they have also brought to life some of the forgotten recipes of the Mao era. Read less

De Fa Chang : Located on the Bell Tower of the city of Xian, this restaurant is the most popular restaurant in that entire province. Known for its scrumptious dumpling delights this place also offers a magical view of the entire city. Read More

The place is very popular for its wide variety of Cantonese finger-foods like in the form of har kao, various varieties of bao, and also the guotie. Till date the place serves as much as 300 different varieties of dumplings and they are filled with seafood, meat, vegetables, and even fruits on occasions. The restaurant offers a set menu option along with a la carte, and foods are being served with a wheeled trolley moving from one table to another. Read less

The currency used in China is called Renminbi which is also known by the name of Chinese Yuan. As per the current rates are concerned 1 Chinese Yuan equals to 10.72 INR. According to the laws stated by the Administrative Rules of the People's Republic of China on Cross-Border Transportation of National Currency as a foreigner you can carry a maximum of US$5,000 which comes to around Chinese Yuan of 20,000. If you are planning to come and leave China twice within 15 days then you can carry up to US$1,000 in cash. The government allows limited cash to enter into the market but you can spend through your debit and credit cards.

Special Tips

Exchanging INR to Chinese Yuan is very easy as in every airport, international or domestic, you will find at least one Foreign Currency Exchange center.
You should only bring enough Chinese Yuan to meet your immediate needs and requirements like snacks and daily commute for the first two days. Anything in between Chinese Yuan 200 and 500 is enough.
There are plenty of ATMs available all across China and you can withdraw cash by using your VISA or MasterCard.
China is a cash based economy and that is why you need cash in most of the situations. Even some of the bigger restaurants of the country accept only cash.
Pay your hotel bills with credit cards or debit cards because everywhere else you will be needed to pay by cash.

Entertainment & Event

With rich diversity of animals and plants and colorful festivals China will cast a magical spell on you.

Flora and Fauna

Flora and Fauna

Flora and Fauna

Due to its vastness in size China is the home to a large variety of plants and animals. The latest findings suggest that there are around 7000 different species of woody plants in China including the likes of silver fir, golden larch, China cypress, Fujian cypress, Taiwan flousiana and many others. These species of plants are unique to the soil of China and they are not found anywhere else in the world. China is also blessed with a dense forestation of metasequoia plants as these redwood variety covers a large portion of the Sichaun borders.

As far as the animals are concerned China is of course famous for its huge population of Giant Pandas. An animal which was once considered to be endangered is now thriving all throughout the country and even the world thanks to the massive conservation and breeding project undertaken by the Chinese government. Apart from Giant Pandas, China also houses various other animals in the form of takin, golden monkey, Chinese river dolphin and alligator.
Festivals

Festivals

Festivals

Celebrations in China is all about lights and music. Colors fill the night sky whenever any festivals happens in China. The Chinese New Year Celebration is definitely one of the most popular festivals in the country is also known as the Spring Festival. Starting from dragon dances to firecrackers people celebrate the occasion in many ways. Then there is the famous Dragon Boat Festival which happens during the 5th month of the Chinese lunar calendar. It is basically a Dragon Boat race that takes place and people enjoy the show whilst having rice dumplings.

China's Lantern Festival is also another colorful festival that marks the event calendar of the Chinese people. Celebrated for around 2000 years this festival witnesses a night-sky pitted with Chinese lanterns and drones. Qingming Festival is not typically a festival as such but an ancient custom where Chinese people visit the graves of their loved ones to pay respect.
culture

culture

Culture

There are a lot of cultural diversity as far as China is concerned. Due to its vast geographical landscape the Chinese differ in their rituals and practices, customs and food habits. However, there are few things which unifies the Chinese people and their view towards the world. Like for instance the Chinese people believe in the amalgamation of the old and the new, the east and west. The Chinese people are very open to new ideas and habits as they accept the west with open hearts. However, that does not imply that they totally reject their roots and rituals and forget their past.

Han Chinese accounts for the majority of the Chinese population and whilst there are several Chinese dialects spoken across the country the core language remains the same. The Chinese are very proud of their history and they have made peace with their religious beliefs and the practice of communism. Chinese people are normally friendly and hospitable to their tourists and they are very soft-spoken by nature.