Tainan is somewhat of a hidden gem in Taiwan, which seeks to challenge this status quo.

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture, there are so many things to do in Tainan that make it worthy of a pitstop on anyone’s travel plans.

From ancient temples to beautiful parks to delicious street food and bustling night markets, Tainan has so many attractions that will captivate you with its charm.

But if you’re not sure what to do in Tainan and why it’s worth a visit, keep reading to discover our insider travel tips and knowledge on Tainan for those looking for the best places to see, eat, stay, drink, and explore.

Is Tainan Worth Visiting?

Tainan is absolutely worth visiting. It’s the oldest city in Taiwan and is also the former capital, so it’s steeped in Taiwanese culture and history.

Although by western standards Tainan is a large city, it does not feel like a metropolis.

It has a distinctly old heritage city feel, and because it’s less explored by international visitors, it offers an authentic experience to anyone who travels there.

There is also a lot of support for the fine arts in Tainan. There are some fantastic modern art galleries and even art street.

Things to Do in Tainan

From historic landmarks to jaw-dropping nature sites, be sure to add the following attractions to your Tainan itinerary.

1. Explore Tainan’s Temples

There are a lot of temples in Taiwan, but as the oldest city, Tainan has an especially high concentration of them, several of which are very well-known.

The Tainan Confucius Temple is one of the most famous in the city, and dates back several centuries – though it has undergone renovations over the years and today looks like it was built yesterday.

It showcases traditional Taiwanese folk culture and has some of the most beautiful designs and reliefs.

Another prominent temple worth checking out is the Tainan Grand Matsu Temple, or Grand Mazu Temple as it’s sometimes known, which is the largest temple in Tainan.

This temple was the first Mazu temple built by the Taiwanese government, and is dedicated to the The Heaven God Mother – the most worshipped in Taiwan.

It therefore attracts hundreds of visitors each day, from around the world, and is one of the best places to glimpse into the country’s religious and cultural practices.

If you have more time, the Lady Linshui Temple and Baihe Lady Linshui Temple, which hold great historical and spiritual significance, are worth exploring.

2. Visit the National Literature Museum

The National Literature Museum is also an excellent place to learn about the country’s culture and history.

Established in October 2003, it holds the distinction of being the first national museum dedicated to literature in Taiwan.

Housed in the former Tainan Prefecture Office, a building constructed in 1916, this museum showcases the development of Taiwanese literature from ancient times to the modern era.

As you wander its halls, explore its extensive collection of Chinese, Taiwanese, and Japanese literary works, which allow you to gain insights into the rich literary heritage of the region.

3. Try The Local Delicacy

Taiwanese people are passionate about food, especially snacks, and Tainan is famous for having many of the best in the country.

In Taiwan most restaurants are small, only serve a few items, and have a specialty that they’re known for.

Since Tainan is so old, many of the recipes date back to the city’s early days during the Qing Dynasty.

Needless to say, street food stand and restaurant hopping is a fantastic experience here.

Be sure to try an oyster omelette, by far Tainan’s best-known specialty. Also, don’t forget to drink pearl milk tea, otherwise known as bubble tea, which originates in Taiwan.

If you get the chance, try some peking duck (about $8-9 USD for a whole duck), as well as coffin bread.

In Taiwan, it’s the small dumpy-looking restaurants with hundreds of years of history behind them that are best-known and are highly recommended. Here are a few of my favorite places to eat:

Shanghai Steamed Pork Buns | 上海好味道小籠湯包

This restaurant is famous countrywide for its soup dumplings, but all the dumplings are fantastic!

There’s no English menu, so if you don’t speak Chinese you will either need to enlist some help or resort to pointing at other people’s food to order.

Ten steamed dumplings here will run you about $1.50 USD. That’s plenty for most people, but I usually can’t resist ordering a second plate.

Vonny’s Garden Vegetarian Restaurant | 綠素界花果茶餐飲坊

As a buddhist country, Taiwan has some amazing vegetarian food. The fake meat (they even have fake sashimi) is unbelievable.

Vonny’s is a homey restaurant in an old house with excellent vegetarian dishes, great service, and an English menu.

Meals here range from around $2.20 USD for noodles or rice, up to around $8 USD for the fake steak.

Shangri-La Hotel | 香格里拉

Shangri-La Hotels are known to be one of the most extravagant hotel chains in the country.

Most upscale hotels and shopping centres in Taiwan will also have a very upscale buffet restaurant serving exotic foreign cuisines, sushi, steak, seafood, and the like.

They are normally all you can eat and all you can drink (including beer and wine). If you are looking for an exceptional meal, visit Tainan’s Shangri-La for the best buffet in town.

4. Explore the Night Markets

The night markets are, of course, always entertaining. Among the most popular ones is the Tainan Garden Night Market, boasting around 400 vendors and serving as Taiwan’s largest night market.

Opened in 1999, it attracts locals and tourists alike, providing a wide variety of delectable street food and unique shopping opportunities.

Another notable night market is the Wusheng Night Market, Tainan’s oldest operating market since 1984, with approximately 250 market stands and food stalls. Here you can indulge in local delicacies, explore the bustling atmosphere, and immerse themselves in the lively energy of these night markets.

The Tainan Jade Market is also definitely worth a visit. It’s open Monday, Tuesday, and Saturday.

5. Wander Around Anping

Anping is the oldest neighbourhood in Tainan, which makes it the oldest in Taiwan. It is said that Anping is where Chiang Kai Shek first landed when fleeing China.

Here you will find some of the biggest and oldest temples in Taiwan, the Anping Old Fort, also known as Fort Zeelandia, (which was built by the Dutch as defence against invaders) and beautiful historical character alley lined with specialty food shops and artisans.

Walk down Yanping Street, otherwise known as Anping Old Street, which is the oldest street in the city and is known for its market stalls.

Another landmark in Anping worth checking out is the Anping Tree House, which is a former warehouse that has been reclaimed by nature. It gets its name from the roots of banyan trees that cover the building.

6. Mingle With The Locals in Hai An R

Locals and expats alike can often be found relaxing with friends and people-watching on tea shop patios on Hai An R., Tainan’s ‘hip district’, which is also a fantastic area for shopping.

Hai An Rd. is the location of a city-funded art project, and many buildings are adorned with murals.

The area around Hai An Rd. is also the old center of town and former red light district, so it has a character and charm all its own.

7. Shop Till You Drop!

Like I mentioned above, Hai An Rd. has fantastic clothing and jewelry on the road and, especially in the back alleys nearby.

Another great shopping street is BeiMen Rd., the main road in the middle of town that runs past the front of the train station.

It’s also a fantastic place for shopping. If you are looking for cheap computer parts, there are two large computer malls here with everything that you could imagine.

It has very good clothes shops (although not as awesome as Hai An Rd.).

Hayashi Department Store is another popular place to shop in Tainan.

8. Relax in Tainan Park

Just north of the train station on Bei Men Rd., you will find the Tainan Park, the largest in the city, complete with a lake and a pagoda suspended above it.

Tainan Park is a picturesque oasis that offers a serene escape from the urban buzz.

Steeped in history, the park dates back to the Qing Dynasty and was once a private garden of a prominent official.

Today, visitors can stroll along winding paths, admire vibrant flowers, and relax by the water’s edge.

9. Attend A Festival in Tainan

Every year, shortly after Chinese New Year, there is an unbelievably dangerous fireworks festival called the Yenshuei Fireworks Festival.

It takes place in the nearby township of Yenshuei. During this festival thousands of fireworks are shot directly into the crowds.

Every Chinese New Year Tainan also hosts a fantastic Lantern Festival. Almost any time of year you are likely to see some sort of parade for a god’s birthday (Daoism has a LOT of gods).

10. Visit Tainan County’s Monkey Mountain

I’m a big fan of Tainan County’s Monkey Mountain, which is a 750 meter high mountain known for its macaque population. It’s about a 40 minute drive east of town near the town of NanHua in Tainan County.

There are fantastic hiking trails and you’re almost guaranteed to see hundreds of macaques, in addition to an enormous Buddha statue and a beautiful temple.

It’s also free to enter, which makes it my top free thing to do in Tainan.

11. Visit The Hot Springs in Guanzling

If you want to get out of the city for a while, head to Guanzling, which is home to fantastic hot springs, mud baths, and hiking trails, as well as a pool of burning water (it burns as natural gas bubbles up from fissures in the earth beneath).

Nestled in the serene countryside, Guanziling is a place to recharge your batteries. Soak in the hot springs, which boast medicinal qualities that are believed to alleviate various ailments and promote relaxation.

12. Hang Out In Blueprint Cultural & Creative Park

Nestled in the heart of Tainan, Blueprint Cultural & Creative Park is a multi-purpose park, formerly known as “the First Judicial New Village,” that was once the dormitory for Tainan Prison employees.

Today, it has been transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity, featuring art studios, shops, and cultural events.

You can explore quirky bookstores, indulge in delectable snacks, and discover local artwork and pieces of handmade craftmanship.

13. Take A Trip to Taijiang National Park

Just outside Tainan on the southcoast is the captivating Taijiang National Park, which was established in 2009 and is famous for its picturesque coastal landscape and marine wonders.

From pristine beaches to lush wetlands, the park is a patchwork of diverse ecosystems, and is one of the best places to see the Black-Faced Spoonbill.

Walk along the scenic trails, grab your binoculars and look out for migratory birds, or just catch the sunset over the ocean, Taijiang National Park is the perfect nature retreat from the bustling city.

14. See Chihkan Tower

Another historic landmark in Tainan is the Chihkan Tower, which was originally built by the Dutch in 1653 as Fort Provintia.

Today, it’s a museum that allows visitors to learn about Tainan’s past, marvel at its architecture, and wander through the tranquil gardens.

15. Visit Chimei Museum

The Chimei Museum is a private museum that contains an impressive collection of Western art, musical instruments, weaponry, and natural history.

Established in 1992 by Shi Wen-long of Chi Mei Corporation, this museum is famous for its renowned collection of paintings and classical music instruments from around the world.

The Chimei Museum is also a piece of architectural beauty and is worth visiting for its design alone.

16. Hike Qigu Salt Mountain

If you’re looking for more unique things to do in Tainan, be sure to discover the enchanting Qigu Salt Mountain.

Although named a mountain, this is more of a hill that reaches approximately 6 stories high, made entirely out of salt. It was once Qigu Salt Field’s salt pile, but when they closed their doors in 2002, the salt mountain was abandoned and the salt naturally clumped together, making it easy to climb.

Once at the top, you’ll witness panoramic views of the surrounding landscape of the Jingzijiao Wapan Salt Fields that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Getting To and Around Tainan

There are lots of budget airlines in Asia that fly to Taiwan. Some of the most common are Tiger Airways, when travelling to or from Singapore, or Cebu Pacific when travelling to or from the Philippines.

You’ll find plenty of Air Asia flights when travelling to or from Malaysia, as well as Cathay Dragon, the budget version of Cathay Pacific, if passing through Hong Kong.

It’s really not worth the money or trouble to fly inside of Taiwan. You can easily get to the Taiwan high speed rail from Taipei, which is much more convenient.

Note that Tainan HSR Station is located outside the city center, and you will need to catch another train from Shalun Railway Station (5 minutes walk away and connected by a walkway, so you won’t get lost) to Tainan Train Station.

Although Taiwan has a good local train system, I much prefer to travel between cities by bus. The cost is similar, but the busses are incredibly luxurious.

I strongly recommend travelling by HoHsin (the red bus). Each seat is the size of a Lazy Boy, has massage settings, and its own screen for watching moves and playing video games.

The price is comparable to a train ticket, and they have service between major cities at least once an hour 24 hours a day.

When it comes to getting around Tainan, the bus system is very difficult to navigate and seldom used.

Taxis, however, are quite affordable. You can get to most places in the city for $3-6 USD.

Renting a scooter is also a good option, as they are better than cars for navigating the crowded streets. There are several scooter rental shops behind Tainan Station, and scooters can be rented for $25-30 USD/day.

Best Time of Year to Visit Tainan

The best time of year to visit Tainan is November and December, which are the months when the weather is by far the most pleasant.

It’s like North American summer. Not too hot, nice and dry, sunny most days.

Where to Stay in Tainan

When visiting Tainan, there are several areas that offer good accommodation and are close to the major tourist attractions and landmarks.

The West Central District is a popular choice, known for its bustling atmosphere and numerous attractions.

If it’s your first time, I recommend staying in the Anping District, with its historical sites and charming Old Street, it offers a more authentic experience.

For those seeking a tranquil stay, the Fort Provintia area provides a peaceful ambiance.

The Tainan Park neighborhood is also a great area, which offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural landmarks.

A good all-round accommodation is the Kindness Day Hotel which is centrally located in the city center, has spacious and homey rooms, and a good price tag to match.

Another popular choice for those who want a little luxury is Silks Place Tainan, which is a 5* hotel within walking distance of Tainan city’s historic attractions.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Tainan

I love Tainan because the locals are so incredibly warm and friendly. It’s a city that’s so vibrant, so charismatic and so unique, that I want every traveler to discover it.

I hope this guide helps you plan your visit to Tainan and gave you some inspiration for what to do there. You may also like these posts: 19 Awesome Things To Do In Taipei, Taiwan and 20 Best Things to Do In Taiwan With Kids

What kid would not want to spend their family holidays in Asia?

For Australians, a visit to Asia, particularly Southeast Asia, is easy and convenient. The region is close, the exchange rate generally works in our favour and the locals love kids.

But with such a wide range of cultures and a plethora of countries to visit, how do you decide which one is going to be best for your family?

Below are some of the best family holiday destinations in Asia with fun attractions that we think have something for everyone in your family, especially the kids, because let’s face it, if they are happy then mum and dad are happy too!

What Makes The Best Family Holiday Destinations in Asia?

When it comes to finding a perfect family holiday destination in Asia that the kids will love, there are several factors to consider.

Of course, safety is of utmost importance, as every parent wants to ensure their children are secure and well-protected throughout their holiday. The good news is that Asia is very safe, and it’s rare that you’ll come into any conflicts.

In this guide, we’ve listed countries and destinations that we feel are safe for kids of all ages.

Additionally, a good family destination should have a wide range of kid-friendly attractions and activities that cater to all ages and interests.

We’ve chosen attractions that have a mix of educational and entertaining experiences, allowing children to learn while having fun. Whether it’s an interactive museum, wildlife sanctuary, or cultural tour, they can come away having gained something from their holiday.

Another thing to consider is accessibility. A family-friendly holiday destination in Asia should be easy to get to using convenient transportation options. It should also be a place with a wide range of accommodation options suitable for families, such as resorts or hotels with spacious rooms and amenities tailored for children.

And of course, affordability plays a significant role when choosing a destination. Fortunately, the destinations on this list are all very cheap and affordable when compared to the USA, Europe and Australia.

Now you know what to look out for, here are some of the best destinations in Asia for families…

Bali, Indonesia

There is a very good reason Australians continue to flock to Bali each year and it’s not just for cheap beer.

Bali has a huge number of things for families to do, and sipping cocktails in the resort pool bar while the kids are in kids club is only one of them.

Here are our top attractions in Bali for kids.

1. Waterbom Park

The whole family will want to spend at least a day or two screaming on the thrilling waterslides or gently floating down the lazy river.

And even younger kids will have a ball with the smaller child-friendly slides.

2. Canyon Tubing & Quad Biking

Something for the older kids.

Hidden deep in the jungle north of Ubud, the whole family can take a fun quad bike tour through small villages and tropical rainforest.

Then after lunch hop in an inflatable tube and drift down a scenic river bordered by a steep canyon with lush, cool, shady. The perfect combination of excitement and relaxation.

3. Bali Safari & Marine Park

This is actually 4 parks in one, so enjoy seeing the animals in the Marine park and the Safari park before heading over to the small water park and rides in the amusement park.

Singapore

Next stop Singapore.

Singapore is immaculately clean, safe and very child- friendly. Be prepared to spend a little bit more money in this country, but it will be well worth it.

Our top 3 things to do in Singapore with kids

4. Universal Studios Singapore

Of course, a family vacation in Asia would not be complete without visiting a theme park. Kids of all ages will want to stay the whole day at Universal Studios in Singapore.

You will be enamored with the number of rides on offer, food to try and shows to see. 

Not to mention the excitement the little ones will have when meeting characters from their favorite movies.

Singapore Universal Studios is located on Sentosa Island which is home to many theme parks, water parks and family-friendly resorts where you can have many adventures as a family.

5. Port of Lost Wonder

A beachside pirate ship with water guns, slides and tipping buckets, makes this a great day out for the younger members of the family.

But parents don’t disappear, there’s free Wi-Fi at the Port of Lost Wonder too!

6. Singapore Zoo & Night Safari

This is one of the best zoos in the world and definitely worth a visit. Bring your swimmers, as there is a kids water park half way through, which is a huge relief on a hot tropical day.

Stay until the evening and walk to the nearby Night Safari to see nocturnal animals in action and fire-breathing dancers.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Most parents think of Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia as a teeming metropolitan with nothing to do but shop and eat. But we guarantee there is a lot more to Kuala Lumpur then that.

Our top 3 things to do in Kuala Lumpur with kids:

7. Kidznania

This is a little world built for kids.

Your children will have a field day playing the part of any number of adult careers including fire fighters, dentists, pilots, chefs and more. Oh, and did I mention there is a parent retreat upstairs with free Wi-Fi.

8. KLCC Playground

Right in the city center is a vast area that sets the benchmark for public playgrounds.

Situated beside this is a public wading pool. And then just outside the nearby Suria Shopping Mall, you will find a beautiful fountain display.

Head there one evening for a play, a swim and then oohs and ahhs at the evening fountain show. The mall also has plenty to do including a science museum, cinemas, and shopping.

9. Sunway Lagoon

Amusement park, water park, resort. If you are looking for a special treat, stay at the resort and spend a few days enjoying this Asian wonderland.

Thailand

Here’s our wildcard: Thailand. Why would anyone want to take their kids to the hectic city of Bangkok, Thailand? And what is there to see and do for kids in Chiang Mai if they’re not into temples?

Well, other than the great tasting and delicious street food, ancient ruins, friendly locals, and white sand beaches, Thailand also offers memorable rides in fast-paced tuk-tuks and colossal shopping malls packed with attractions.

Here are some of our top things to do in Bangkok with kids and other attractions on this tropical paradise:

10. Fantasia Lagoon

This was a complete surprise.

A small waterpark located on the roof of a shopping mall. What makes this such a great day out was the superlow entry price of only AUD$7 each. Bargain!

11. Ocean World

A well-maintained aquarium, again in the heart of a shopping mall. You can even ride a glass bottom boat over the shark tank or walk along the ocean floor.

The range of marine life is massive, and the complex is very pram friendly.

12. Royal Dragon Restaurant

Not your typical Chinese restaurant.

This restaurant holds the Guinness World Record for the largest restaurant with over 5000 seats.

Plus your food could be delivered on roller skates or zipline. There’s even a show held every night on a stage propped above the water.

13. Phuket FantaSea

This enchanting theme park is a destination that will leave both children and adults in awe.

From its breathtaking cultural shows and thrilling performances to its interactive animal exhibits, Fantasea promises endless entertainment for the whole family.

What sets Fantasea apart is that it blends together Thai mythology with modern technology, and creates a spectical that’s both exciting and educational.

Children and adults will adore the vibrant colors, elaborate costumes, and impressive stage designs.

Here are some of our best tips on Thailand with kids:

• Guide to Planning a Trip to Thailand
• 23 Amazing Things To Do In Phuket
• 3-Day Bangok Itinerary: The Best of Bangkok
• 23 Helpful Tips for Traveling to Thailand with Kids
• The Ultimate 5 Day Phuket Itinerary
• 10 Ideas For What to Do in Bangkok With Kids

Cambodia

Cambodia may not be the first place you think of when you think of family friendly destinations in Asia, but it’s a destination that offers a perfect blend of rich culture, awe-inspiring ruins, and friendly villages.

With its fascinating attractions, stunning natural scenery, and affordable prices, Cambodia provides an immersive experience for families who have slightly older children (tweens and up).

Don’t miss these things to know before visiting Cambodia and these Unmissable Things to Do in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Here is what we recommend you do with your kids in Cambodia…

14. Phare, The Cambodian Circus

Most people visit Siem Reap for Angkor Wat, but there is a more exciting attraction here for kids to enjoy too.

Phare, is a unique Cambodian circus that combines acrobatics with dance and music.

It’s performed by students and graduates from the Phare Ponleu Selpak school, a school that was set up in the early 90s by nine young men who lived together in a refugee camp after the Khmer Rouge regime.

They foudn their time in the camp was greatly impacted by an art teacher and used art and performance as therapy.

The art school was then founded to offer free education to those living in socially deprived communities.

The art school transformed into a music school and a circus school, and has more than 1,200 pupils.

Tickets to Phare Circus goes towards the graduates of the school and helps them earn a decent wage. So not only is it exciting for children, attending the circus goes to a good cause too.

Japan

When it comes to safe destinations in Asia for families, you won’t find anywhere safer than Japan.

Japan is a land where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern wonders, and captivates any visitor no matter how old they are.

From thrilling theme parks to delicious cuisine, Japan offers a kaleidoscope of experiences that will captivate the hearts of every family member.

Here’s what you shouldn’t miss in Japan…

15. Tokyo Disneyland: Disneysea

Tokyo Disneyland is a magical adventure. With its enchanting attractions, delightful characters, and immersive experiences, this iconic theme park offers an unforgettable journey that transcends generations.

From the moment you step foot in the park, you’re transported to a world where imagination knows no bounds.

Tokyo Disneyland is not only a place where Disney characters come to life, but it also has meticulously crafted landscapes, whimsical rides, and vibrant parades.

It has the usual attractions, such as Space Mountain and the pirate-filled voyage of Pirates of the Caribbean, as well as plenty of smaller rides for younger children.

16. Arashiyama Monkey Park, Kyoto

Arashiyama Monkey Park is a hidden gem in Kyoto, nestled amidst lush mountains and breathtaking scenery, it’s a park where visitors can interact with adorable Japanese macaques in their natural habitat.

If you’re a family that loves to get out into nature, this is the place for you. To get to the Monkey Park, you must first hike up a scenic trail in the mountain, where upon reaching the summit, you’re greeted by the sight of playful monkeys roaming freely.

Watching them swing from trees and socialize with each other is a captivating sight that captivates both young and old alike.

The park provides a safe and controlled environment for families to observe and feed the monkeys, creating unforgettable memories.

Read more travel tips on Japan:

• 18 Most Exciting Things to Do in Tokyo, Japan
• The PERFECT 10 Days in Japan Itinerary (for First Time Visitors)
• 5 tips for visiting Japan with kids on a budget
• A Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Japan

Taiwan

A family adventure to Taiwan opens up doors to ancient traditions and modern marvels.

It’s a small and safe country with bustling night markets, breathtaking landscapes, mouthwatering cuisine, and friendly locals.

You can create unforgettable memories as a family, whether you visit ornate temples, soak in natural hot springs, or visit the family-friendly attractions…

17. Taipei Zoo

Taipei Zoo is a unique and unforgetable attraction, nestled amidst lush greenery on the outskirts of Taipei, and spanning over 165 hectares.

The zoo is home to a diverse array of fascinating animals from all around the globe, from majestic elephants to playful pandas.

But Taipei Zoo is more than just a place to observe animals. It’s a sanctuary of natural beauty where families can enjoy scenic strolls amidst stunning landscapes and tranquil gardens.

The zoo’s commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in its eco-friendly initiatives, creating an atmosphere that inspires appreciation and respect for nature.

You can watch wildlife shows, see feeding sessions, and take part in educational programs. Taipei Zoo ensures that families have an unforgettable experience while also learning about the importance of wildlife preservation.

Read more tips on Taiwan:

• What to do in Tainan, Taiwan
• 19 Awesome Things To Do In Taipei, Taiwan
• 20 Best Things to Do In Taiwan With Kids

South Korea

South Korea is another very safe country to visit as a family. It has a unique and rich culture, plenty of malls for a shopping spree, and plenty to see and do with kids.

With kid-friendly hotels and whimsical cafes, South Korea has many wonderful experience for families.

Discover ingenious kid products, enjoy safe and convenient public transportation, and savor the diverse cuisine. But no trip to South Korea would be complete without taking the kids to…

18. Lotte World, Seoul

Lotte World in Seoul, South Korea, is the perfect destination in Asia for families. This expansive amusement park offers a thrilling combination of rides, cultural experiences, and delectable cuisine that will captivate visitors of all ages.

The outdoor Magic Island theme park offers even more fun, complete with thrilling roller coasters and captivating shows.

Beyond the rides, Lotte World also offers an ice skating rink, shopping mall, and a variety of dining options, ensuring that every member of the family finds something to enjoy.

It’s a destination where you can spend a whole day and not see it all. It combines thrilling rides and activities with cultural performances that showcase the rich heritage of South Korea.

Plus it’s an indoor theme park, ensuring that rain or shine, families can enjoy a day filled with excitement and adventure!

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a small and dynamic city that seamlessly blends cultural heritage with modern marvels.

Whether you’re looking to get adventurous in the thrilling theme parks, explore vibrant markets, or indulge in delectable cuisine, there is something for every family member in Hong Kong.

Be sure to check out…

19. Ocean Park

Ocean Park promises thrills and wonders for the whole family. Nestled amidst stunning coastal scenery, this premier theme park offers a perfect blend of entertainment and education.

At Ocean Park, families can immerse themselves in a mesmerizing world of marine life, where they can discover marine animals in the aquarium, including whale sharks, or they can visit the penguin house to see these lively creatures up close.

Step into the Panda House and see China’s national animal grazing on bamboo, or head up the cable car to the mountain top and discover adrenaline-pumping rides and roller coasters.

Ocean Park is not just about rides and marine life; it’s also a hub of conservation and sustainability efforts. Families can learn about marine conservation through interactive exhibits and educational programs, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the ocean and its inhabitants.

While Hong Kong also has a Disneyland, if you ask any child in Hong Kong what their favourite theme park is, they will always say Ocean Park.

Check out these posts on Hong Kong:

• Best Hong Kong accommodation options – from budget to luxury!
• 15 Incredible Things to do in Hong Kong
• Don’t miss the natural beauty of Hong Kong (it’s not all skyscrapers & dim sum)

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, these locations have whet your appetite because there is a whole lot more countries out there offering family friendly holidays.

For your next family holiday think outside the box and discover Southeast Asia. You will not only find so much variety and entertainment, but you will probably end up saving money as well.

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Many visitors stop by the main cities: Beijing, Shanghai, and maybe Xi’an, with a few opportunities to get off the beaten path and to experience the beautiful nature of China.

After five years of living in China, I’ve had plenty of experience planning itineraries and showing my friends and family around. Today I’m going to share with you the perfect two week itinerary for China.

The 2 week China itinerary I’ve put together will show you some of the best things to do in mainland China and help you explore the major sights, while also spending some time on the Tibetan Plateau.

Let’s take a look!

2 Week China Itinerary

So, where to go in China? If you only have two weeks at your disposal, you’re going to need to be ok with missing out on a few places.

You will see the most iconic cities such as Beijing and Shanghai, as well as visit some bucket list places such as the Great Wall of China, but you’ll have to save Hong Kong and the southern provinces of China for another trip – there simply isn’t enough time.

Below is the ultimate 14 day China itinerary for those who want to get off the beaten path and see some of the best places to visit in China.

Days 1-3: Beijing

It’s not a trip to China without stopping by the capital city of Beijing.

After a solid two-years of living in Beijing, I might be a bit biased, but there are so many incredible things to do in this city.

From hiking the Great Wall of China to wandering the Forbidden City, and exploring Beijing’s hutongs, you could spend your full two-weeks here and not see everything.

Hike the Great Wall

I’m a bit of a Great Wall of China fanatic, and I’ve hiked NINE different sections of the wall. (Yeah, I know I’m a bit obsessed.)

If you want to see the Great Wall the right way, my biggest advice is to get off the beaten path and visit the Wild Wall, a section of  the wall not officially open to tourists.

Either that, or visit a part of the great wall that is tourist-friendly, but un-restored. Check out a section like Huanghuacheng, Gubeikou, or Jinshanling.

Whatever you do, I definitely recommend skipping Badaling, the most famous and touristy section of the Great Wall.

If you want a section that’s easy to visit, take a public bus to Mutianyu instead. While you won’t have the wall all to yourself, you’ll avoid the crowds and have incredible views!

Wander the Hutongs

I’m in love with Beijing’s hutongs, a network of traditional alleyway streets and courtyard houses that used to cover all of Beijing.

I’ve shown so many people around the hutongs that I’ve developed my own little hutong-day tour route that covers the Lama Temple, Wudaoying Hutong, the Bell and Drum Towers, and Houhai Lake.

But in my opinion, the best way to visit the hutongs is to simply get lost on your way from A to B.

I also recommend taking a tour of the hutongs to learn more about Beijing’s culture and history.

Viator, a Trip Advisor company, has a hutong and food tour. 

Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, and Jingshan Park

You can’t go to Beijing without seeing the iconic Tiananmen Square with the giant Mao Portrait over the top of the entrance to the Forbidden City.

Spend about 30-minutes wandering around Tiananmen Square, then head into the Forbidden City, where you can explore for about 2 hours.

The Forbidden City is GIANT, and you could easily spend all day there, but for me and most of my family and friends, two hours is just enough to see all of the main sights without getting overwhelmed.

Once you’re finished with the Forbidden City, head to Jingshan Park, where you can catch a view of the Forbidden City (and the rest of Beijing) from above!

If you have more time, then be sure to take a trip out to see the Summer Palace for a quiet retreat from the capital.

If you don’t want to do it on your own, here are a few tour options for you. Click each link to see more details including price, availability and reviews.

• Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Private Tour
• 2-Hour Summer Palace Walking Tour
• Tian’anmen Square and Forbidden City Walking Tour

Where to stay in Beijing

• For sightseers, the area east of the Forbidden City is full of cheap accommodation.
• For hostels, there’s the well located YHA Peking International Youth Hostel.
• For a budget hotel, friends have enjoyed the modern Hotel Kapok, again right next to the Forbidden City.
• A couple of blocks east you come to Wangfujing where the high-end hotels are clustered.
• The Mandarin Oriental is a personal favourite, and towers over DongHuaMen night market (due to reopen n 2016). Alternatively, look for a family-run traditional courtyard hotel in the same area.
• If you’re going to be spending every night in the bars, it would be more convenient to be over by Sanlitun, where you’ll find most of the expats and backpackers hanging out in Bar Street.

Days 4-6: Xi’an

Xi’an is one of my favorite cities in all of China.

This ancient capital is a must-see on your China itinerary and is very easy to get to from Beijing. While it’s tempting to take a quick flight, I actually recommend riding the 4.5 hour high-speed train instead.

Once you factor in arriving at the airport 2 hours early, and how far the airports are from both cities (and the fact that Chinese flights are always delayed), the train ends up being both faster and cheaper than flying!

Bike the Xi’an City Wall

Biking around the ancient city wall is a must on your trip to Xi’an.

You can rent bikes at many of the main gates on the wall, but personally, I recommend starting at the South Gate.

A bike trip around the wall can take anywhere from 1-2 hours depending on how often you stop for photos. Not only will you get to explore this ancient site by bike, you’ll have a view of all of downtown Xi’an from the wall!

Once you get off the wall I definitely recommend exploring the art and caligraphy district near the South Gate.

There are so many shops and souvenirs in the area, and it’s a beautiful neighborhood to photograph.

Explore the Huiminjie Muslim Market

The best time to head to the Muslim Market is just before dinner.

Eat your heart out at the many food stalls, and wander through the souvenir area to bargain for things to take home.

While you’re here, be sure to try local lamb kebabs and liangpi noodles!

Terracotta Army

You can’t go all the way to Xi’an without taking a day-trip to the Terracotta Warriors – plan time for it on your China itinerary.

This ancient army dates back to the first emperor of China, Qin Shihuang, and is China’s equivalent to the pyramids.

Here you can see row upon row of life-size terracotta warriors in giant pits.

Altogether, with the bus ride and visiting the site, you’ll want to budget your morning and afternoon for this day-trip.

See all the tour options and availability for the Terracotta Warriors here.

Hua Shan

If you can manage to squeeze in a day-trip to Hua Shan, then I 100% recommend it!

Take a harrowing cable car up the side of the mountain, to embark on the “world’s most dangerous” hike.

Here you can find the infamous Hua Shan plank walk, where you’ll strap yourself into a harness and walk along a plank embedded into the side of a cliff.

The view down is enough to make your heart beat out of your chest, it’s one of the craziest things to do in China, but the experience is worth it!

Where to stay in Xi’an

• The highly rated Eastern House Boutique Hotel offers oriental-style guestrooms in Xi’an downtown, around a 5-minute walk from Xi’an City Wall. See rates and availability.
• Hantang Inn Hostel Xi’an is located in the center of Xi’an. It combines Chinese and Western designs. See rates and availability.
• Located besides Tang Paradise, a 9-minute drive from Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Gran Melia Xian offers accommodations in Xi’an, featuring private gardens, a lake and an international brand shopping mall, indoor pool and spa center. See rates and availability.

Day 7-8: Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong

Jiuzhaigou in northern Sichuan province is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been, and one of the best places to visit in China.

Hike all day through crystal-clear lakes and rivers that reflect the bright blue sky.

Here you’ll be able to see all the way down to the bottom of each lake, and capture photographs most people could only dream of.

The next morning head to Huanglong, which is known for its colorful calcite deposit pools. These sky-blue mushroom-cloud pools make it obvious why many Chinese people call Huanglong a “fairyland”.

Where to stay in Jiuzhaigou

• Located near the Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve, InterContinental Resort Jiuzhai Paradise is about 35 minutes’ drive from Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. See rates and availability.
• Jiuzhai morning hotel is a 10 minute walk from the entrance to Jiuzhaigou. See rates and availability.
• Located in Jiuzhaigou, Rissai Valley, the more lux Ritz-Carlton Reserve features a garden, terrace, bar, and free WiFi throughout the property. See rates and availability.

Day 9: Horse trek in Songpan

If you love riding horses, you’ll definitely want to put this on your China itinerary and take a one-day horse trek on the Tibetan plateau.

The cute mountain town of Songpan, just near Jiuzhaigou, is home to day and overnight trips on horseback.

Travel with a local Tibetan guide, and explore parts of China that most tourists will never see.

Day 10-12: Chengdu

After a quick flight or a 4-6 hour bus ride down to Chengdu, you’re going to want to spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful gardens and teahouses in this scenic city.

For your first evening, I also highly recommend going for hot pot, a famous eating experience from Sichuan and Chongqing.

Don’t worry, they have non-spicy broth for those who can’t handle the heat!

Leshan Buddha day trip

When in Chengdu, you’ll need to take a trip to the Leshan Buddha, the largest carved stone Buddha in the world.

You can easily hop on a day trip from your hotel, or take one of the many tourist buses there and back.

This Buddha is definitely worth the two-hour trip to see its massive scale. I’m about the size of one of his smaller toes!

The Panda Reserve

If you visit Chengdu, you definitely can’t miss the Panda Reserve, it’s one of the best things to see in China.

Be sure to head there in the morning, when the giant pandas are most active. Catch them eating bamboo, playing with one another, and sleeping in trees. Who knew little pandas love to sleep in trees?

You’ll also need to head to the baby area, where they have the youngest pandas playing with toys and rolling around.

Trust me, the Panda Reserve will definitely be a highlight of your trip. You can take a private tour here.

Where to stay in Chengdu

• Ascott Raffles City Chengdu offers luxurious apartments with free Wi-Fi throughout the property. The apartments all feature upscale amenities and some units are fully equipped kitchen. See rates and availability.
• Located along the historic Qintai Path, Chengdu Wenjun Mansion Hotel (Kuanzhai Xiangzi Branch) is decorated in a traditional Chinese style, a 5-minute walk from Tonghuimen Subway Station (Line 2). See rates and availability.
• Set in Chengdu, ideally located next to Jinjiang River, Shangri-La Chengdu offers well-equipped guest rooms with stunning city views, elegant restaurants and a luxurious ballroom. See rates and availability.

Day 13: Beijing

For your last day in Beijing, I recommend visiting the Temple of Heaven, my favorite imperial site in the country and one of the top China tourist attractions. You can take a guided tour here if you want to go deeper into the history of this fascinating UNESCO World Heritage site.

Afterwards, you can head over to the Pearl Market, one of my favorite bargaining markets in Beijing.

Stock up on sunglasses, electronics, silk, pearls, and a new suitcase to get all of your shopping home!

I know what you’re probably thinking. Wait… no Shanghai on this list of places to go in China?! 

Personally, I’m not a huge fan of Shanghai as a tourist city.

My decision to skip it might be pretty controversial, but I honestly think there’s much more to do and see for a traveler in Beijing, than in Shanghai.

Besides, it’s always much cheaper to get a round-trip flight in and out of the same city.

However, if you really want to visit Shanghai before you leave, I have an optional Shanghai ending in this itinerary as well.

Just keep in mind, you’ll only want to head to Shanghai if you can actually sightsee on day 14, instead of using day 14 to fly home.

Day 13-14: Shanghai

If you really want to spend some time in Shanghai, make sure you have two full days at the end of your trip to China to give this mega city justice.

Of course, you’ll need to see the Bund.

You may want to stop by a few other famous sites like the Yu Yuan Gardens and surrounding area, Jing’an Temple, and the French Concession.

I also highly recommend slurping on a plate of soup dumplings while in Shanghai.

Many people say that the best soup dumpling place is just outside the Yu Yuan Gardens (you’ll find the line without even trying), but personally, I recommend going to a small local place outside of a touristy area to get an authentic experience.

Finally, if you want a great view of the city you can go up in one of Shanghai’s iconic buildings.

I’ve only been up in the JinMao Tower, but I’m dying to visit the Shanghai World Financial Center because they have a glass-bottom floor!

From either of these skyscrapers, you can see all of the surrounding city, and the world-famous Pearl Tower right next door.

Where to stay in Shanghai

• If you’re on a budget, I recommend the Shanghai Hidden Garden Hostel. The location in Pudong is right where everything is happening, as well as being opposite the Bund.
• On the high end, the Langham Hotel in Xintiandi is a great choice. Their service is great and they are right by all the nice shopping and dining venues.

Getting Around China

Navigating China can feel overwhelming, but it’s pretty easy to get from place to place.

The best way to get around China is by China’s extensive high-speed train network, connecting major cities with comfort and convenience. 12Go is a good resource for ticketed travel in China.

For shorter distances within cities, you can find small local buses, or within cities, there is usually a metro. Taxis are plentiful and cheap, though the drivers rarely speak English.

Alternatively, hail a “Didi,” China’s answer to Uber.

Tips for Visiting China

Before you start booking attractions and hotels, here are a few things you need to know before you go…

• Get a VPN! China is famous for having the Great Firewall over the country, which means social media apps such as Whatsapp, Facebook and Instagram are blocked, as well as most Google products – Google Maps, Google Translate, Gmail…everything. You will struggle to use the internet without a VPN.
• Get train tickets in advance. There is usually a long line for tickets at the station and when traveling between cities, good seats get booked up in advance.
• Plan to visit in April or October, these are the quieter months and have good weather.
• Be prepared for the language barrier. Have important addresses written down in Chinese characters to show taxi drivers or ask for directions.
• Carry your own essentials. Items like toilet paper, napkins, and hand sanitizer may not always be readily available, so it’s wise to have them on hand.
• Be prepared for the squatty potty.
• You can also get really cheap eSims from Airalo. You can set it up so it’s ready to go as soon as you arrive. That way you don’t have to worry about finding a local sim card. See prices and availability here.

Final Thoughts

Obviously, with a country as large as China, there are so many options for where you should spend your two weeks.

If you prefer nature, substitute Sichuan with a week in Yunnan and experience the Longji Rice Terraces or hike the Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the world’s deepest gorges known for its incredible mountain views and scenes of the Yangtze River.

Or end your trip in Guilin and Yangshuo, where you can simply rent a bike and cycle through the countryside.

There are far too many incredible places to visit in China, and the unfortunate reality is that it’s impossible to see everything in a few months, let alone two weeks!

However, this China itinerary will create an incredible trip around China and is designed to give you a great introductory visit.

You’ll get a peek at China’s politics, history, culture, pandas, cuisines, and natural beauty.

You’ll explore the biggest cities, and smallest countryside towns, all while following a schedule that gives you time to appreciate each place.

Traveling to China can be daunting, and while there is no such thing as a perfect two week China Itinerary, in my opinion, this one is as close as it gets!

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I hope this two-week China itinerary helps you plan your own China trip. If you have any China travel tips, please share in the comments.

Located in the bustling neighborhood of Tsim Sha Tsui, in Kowloon Hong Kong, this huge building complex was once a residential complex that has now been turned into a run-down mass of shops, currency exchange shops, restaurants, offices, laundromats and guest houses.

All packed tightly together in one 17 story tall building.

It has a notorious past, often featuring in the news as the backdrop of many unsavoury events, but it’s also one of the most famous buildings in the city.

In short, it’s a dump, but it’s also the best place I’ve ever stayed at. It’s estimated to be home to 4,000 residents, many of which are newcomers, expats and budget travelers looking for affordable accommodation.

What is The Atmosphere of The Chungking Mansions?

The chaotic Chungking Mansions are located on Nathan Road, the longest road in HK. It’s easily accessible by MTR, which is located across the road, as well as by taking the star ferry.

The entrance is small and sandwiched between a mall and other smaller stores. You can easily miss it if you’re not looking for it.

In fact, I walked past it several times trying to find it. And when I did find it, I wasn’t even certain if it was the right place.

I took several steps inside before coming to a sudden halt. This place is crazy! In the first few minutes I saw people from just about every square inch of the planet. It’s well known that Chungking Mansion is where Hong Kong’s ethnic minority community gather, mostly from South Asia countries such as India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, as well as Africans and Middle Eastern communities.

In short, it’s a melting pot of cultures.

People were moving around at a fast pace and my eyes needed to adjust to all the commotion. It took me a few moments to even acknowledge the aggressive touts vying for my attention. It’s like the wild west of travel in there.

I almost turned around and walked straight out – Almost. I read everything I could about Chungking Mansions before I arrived so I knew its reputation.

The building is a notorious refuge for petty criminals, prostitution, drug traffickers and illegal immigrants. The police did a mass sweep through the building in both 1995 and 1996, and still to this day there is a police presence in the area.

Don’t let this reputation scare you though. Although it’s busy, chaotic and packed with people, it’s quite safe to visit and most guesthouses will have CCTV, plus there is a security guard.

Though the locals still see it as the sort of “ghetto at the center of the world” in Hong Kong.

So why would I want to stay in a place like this? For one reason, Time Magazine named Chungking Mansions “The Best Example of Globalization in Action” in its annual “Best of Asia” series.

The magazine says there is nothing to be afraid of and I agree. Underneath its gruff exterior lies a unique and amazing place.

Knowing this, I gained my composure and walked into the center of the building. A sign for the hostel I wanted led me to a line for the elevator where I waited and waited.

I waited in a queue for 30 minutes to use the elevator. My pack was digging into my shoulders and I’d long given up searching for staircases (there are none).

The line slowly dwindled down until I was next. In the meantime I looked at an official-looking poster on the wall with “Reward” written in big letters at the top.

It read, “Found in the mountains of Kowloon. He was gagged and tied with electrical tape and left for dead. 3000 Hong Kong Dollar reward for information leading to arrest of his killer(s).”

Underneath was a picture of a Middle Eastern looking man.

The elevator door finally opened again, I crammed into the tight space with about five other people and went to the 14th floor to find my hostel. It was a hostel in the loosest sense of the term.

Beds were crammed into closet sized rooms and the communal showers were disgusting.

Some rooms don’t even have windows, and don’t expect a double bed – you’ll have a bunk bed with just enough space to get into your bed and nowhere to put your bag.

If you’re lucky to have a private bathroom, it’s often a wet room and doesn’t have a separate shower, so water will always spray over the toilet when you’re showering.

At night, the front desk operator cheered so loudly at the soccer matches on TV that I woke up several times each night.

I guess I shouldn’t have expected much from Hong Kong’s cheapest hostel.

I now know what Time Magazine was talking about with “globalization in action”.

When I signed in, I saw countries from Cameroon, Ghana, Brazil, Philippines and France to just name a few. I met more people from distant places there than anywhere else I’ve ever been.

What To See In Chungking Mansions

Chunking Mansions is an interesting place to see even if you’re not staying there. In fact, I spent most of one day just exploring the place. The main floor is a shopping mall of assorted little retail stores selling trinkets and cheap knock-offs of brand name goods.

Just one floor up is a multitude of restaurants. They’re easy to find due to several touts with flyers aggressively vying for your attention. If you tell them you want to eat there, they’ll escort you all the way to your table.

I was reluctant at first to eat there due to the unappealing conditions of the hostel, but I had read about how world-class they are so I gave them a chance.

The food is fantastic. I ended up eating at about four small family-run restaurants and it was some of the best food I’ve eaten anywhere.

The whole of the ground floor is filled with the aroma of spices. They have a great selection of mostly Indian, Pakistani and Nepalese cuisine.

This was by far the most fascinating unsanitary fire-trap I’ve ever stayed at and I even felt sad saying goodbye to it days later when I left. As I was trudging off to my next destination Macau, I saw two timid backpackers at the entrance nervously talking to each other.

I could tell what was going on. They were debating back and forth about if they wanted to stay there or not. I made my choice to continue inside, would you?

If you want to escape the bedlam of Hong Kong and return to nature, check out these cool Hong Kong hikes and these things to do in Hong Kong.

Final Thoughts

Chungking Mansions, although chaotic and a little sketchy if you’re not used to it, is a vibrant and multicultural hub.

This iconic building is perfect for travelers who love to mix with different cultures, try world cuisines, and have unique experiences.

From its bustling ground-floor shops to the diverse range of African, South Asian, and Middle Eastern restaurants, Chungking Mansions is definitely a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and flavors.

You certainly need to see it to believe it.

Hong Kong Accommodation

We have hand picked a selection of the best Hong Kong accommodation options for 3, 4,and 5-star hotels, plus apartments and hostels. Click here for our Hong Kong accommodation list.

China Travel Guides

For more inspiration about visiting Hong Kong and China, be sure to check out the following guides…

• 2 Week China Itinerary – Unmissable Places to Visit in China
• 34 Essential Things to Know Before Visiting China
• Wondering What to Do in Beijing, China? Read on
• Climbing the Great Wall of China
• What are the best things to do in Shanghai?
• Cycling Through Yangshuo Countryside China
• Hiking the Tiger Leaping Gorge in China

Needless to say, there are many things to do in Shanghai, from strolling along the iconic Bund to immersing yourself in the rich heritage of the Shanghai Museum, this city has something for everyone.

If you’re not sure what to do in Shanghai, then you’ve come to the right place.

In this guide, we’ve shared our top tips for attractions to visit in Shanghai, plus advice on where to eat, sleep, drink, shop and explore.

Is Shanghai Worth Visiting?

It’s hard to explain the sense of optimism and excitement that you feel when you walk through Shanghai – it’s a city that is just alive and buzzing.

I think this is because China is a country that is developing so quickly and playing an increasingly important role globally.

So for visitors, Shanghai is a great place to get an understanding of modern China’s role in our global future.

The city also offers a great mix of old and new – on the one hand you can see old-school produce markets in the streets, eat traditional cuisine, and witness time-honored customs, but on the other hand you can see a rapidly expanding skyline that is so gleaming and futuristic it almost looks like it was built by aliens.

Where else in the world can you experience such a contrast? If you can’t answer that question, then we’re agreed that Shanghai is definitely worth a visit.

Things to Do in Shanghai

To me, a visit to Shanghai is more about people watching and observing what life is like in modern China, rather than hitting up a series of historic sites.

With that in mind, here are a couple of attractions in Shanghai I highly recommend for soaking up the city’s culture and atmosphere.

1. Walk Along The Bund

The Bund is an iconic waterfront promenade that offers a fusion of history and modernity.

Nestled on the banks of the Huangpu River, this is the perfect place to capture the mesmerizing skyline featuring both colonial-era and contemporary architectural marvels.

It’s lined with trendy restaurants and bars, and when nighttime hits, the skyline turns into a dazzling spectacle of illuminated skyscrapers reflected on the tranquil waters.

2. Visit The Shanghai Museum & People’s Square

Located in People’s Square, The Shanghai Museum is an excellent attraction if you want to learn about traditional ceramics, furniture, jade, coins, paintings and so on.

Marvel at the impressive Chinese art collections, calligraphy, ancient artifacts, and intriguing exhibitions that offer a glimpse into China’s rich heritage.

People’s Square itself is worth a visit, since it serves as a bustling hub that combines historical significance with modern vibrancy.

3. Check Out The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center

This museum is worth a visit, if only to see the enormous scale model of the city.

You get to see what the city looks like now, as well as all the developments that are planned for the coming years.

As you step inside this six-story building, you’ll be amazed by the city’s remarkable transformation. Learn about the innovative urban development strategies, witness the grandeur of Shanghai’s skyline, and gain a deeper understanding of its rich history.

4. Observe the Marriage Market

If you’re in town on a weekend, you definitely shouldn’t miss the marriage market held at the north end of People’s Park.

This is where parents gather and scour notices in the hopes of finding a suitable spouse for their adult children.

5. Admire The City Views at Night

Without a doubt, one of the highlights of a visit to Shanghai is seeing the city skyline all lit up at night.

There are lots of rooftop bars that offer great vantage points (see my tips below about where to drink for more on that) but a really enjoyable way to take it all in is to go on a cruise along the Huang Pu River and The Bund, which is the waterway that runs through the city.

The cruises are cheap (around $6 or so) and you can buy tickets from the booths at the southern end of the Bund promenade.

6. Take the Kids to Disneyland Park

One of the top things to do in Shanghai with kids is to visit Shanghai Disneyland, which is a magical experience for the whole family.

It boasts unique and innovative rides, such as Tron, one of the world’s coolest coasters, and the all-new Pirates attraction, plus a chance to walk down Mickey Avenue and meet the characters.

Marvel at the spectacular shows and parades that bring beloved Disney characters to life in dazzling performances, as well as experience a fusion of Disney magic and Chinese culture, as Shanghai Disneyland incorporates elements of Chinese tradition and folklore into its attractions and design.

7. Explore the Neighborhoods in Shanghai

A great way to get to know a city is to wander around the neighborhoods.

The French Concession is a part of Shanghai that was once a French settlement, and it’s a lovely area to stroll through.

The streets are quiet and leafy – which is a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city – and there’s lots of nice architecture. The area also has great shopping (see below for more specifics).

If you want to see the more traditional side of Shanghai, the area surrounding the Yuyuan Gardens is full of little alleyways dotted with fishmongers and local markets, and consequently, not many tourists!

And of course, to explore modern Shanghai, you can’t go past Pudong. This is the newer section of the city that stretches along the east side of the river, opposite the historic city center.

The Lujiazui area is particularly dense with unusual and futuristic skyscrapers.

8. Eat The Local Cuisine in Shanghai

Let me start by warning you that Chinese food in China tastes nothing like the Chinese food we’re used to eating in the Western world.

A lot of the food is either really bland or really unusually spiced, or made with parts of animals we could never in a million years fathom eating, or the food is just so bizarre you don’t even know what it is.

Be sure to try Xiao Long Bao, which are soup dumplings with pork meat in them.

What you do is bite a hole in one end of the pastry and slurp out all the liquid before eating the rest of the dumpling. This type of dumpling is a Shanghai specialty.

There are some great restaurants in Shanghai if you know where to look. Here are some of my favourites:

• Xintiandi, which is an affluent pedestrian-only area of shops and restaurants, has lots of great food options including both Asian and Western fare.
• Sinan Mansions, made up of a bunch of renovated villas, is also full of restaurants that appeal to Western palates.
• For Yunan food and beautiful décor, I really enjoy Lost Heaven. It’s sister restaurant, Coconut Paradise, serves up really good Thai food.
• For a splurge, M on the Bund offers great Bund views and mostly Western food (it’s run by some Aussies), while Mr and Mrs Bund serves fabulous French cuisine.
• If you want a really fun meal, I recommend eating at Haidilao Hot Pot, which is a chain of hot pot restaurants that offers manicures and games while you wait for your table.
• For budget eats, the Tokyo Food Court, which is under the HSBC and Cartier stores near Xintiandi, has lots of options like sushi, noodles, pizza, pasta etc.
• If you’re craving western food, check out Wagas – the chain serves up wraps, sandwiches, soups etc, which are perfect if you don’t feel like a heavy, greasy lunch.
• Jia Jia Tang Bao is one of the oldest restaurants in the city and is a great place to try authentic Chinese street food.

9. Hit the Bars in Shanghai

If you want to party, then you’ll want to hit up M1NT which is the hottest club in town.

It’s set in a high-rise building and is so glamorous it even boasts a tank of baby sharks!

If you’re looking for more places to spend a night out, then here are some great bars in Shanghai:

• Barbarossa is a Moroccan themed lounge in the middle of People’s Park.
• If you like girly, pink places, you’ll enjoy Glamour Bar.
• People 7 is a nice bar, but you have to solve a puzzle to get in the door (and to use the bathrooms), so don’t go there drunk!
• Sinan Mansions and Xintiandi are both full of great drinking spots including a wine bar and a German beerhouse.
• Shanghai also has countless rooftop bars with stunning views – VUE Bar at Hyatt on the Bund even has rooftop Jacuzzi that you can enjoy while you drink.

10. Explore the Bustling Markets in Shanghai

There’s no shortage of shopping to be had in downtown Shanghai and you’ll see what I mean if you go.

Nanjing Road is the main shopping street, and Huahai Middle Road is where you’ll find the big malls and flagship stores.

If you prefer markets, head to Tianzifang. This market has good prices on handicrafts, jewelry, and other souvenirs. Tianzifang is a really cool area to wander around, but the narrow maze-like streets are really easy to get lost in.

There’s also a giant underground market below the Science and Technology Museum in Pudong (you’ll see it as soon as you walk out of the metro station).

This is the place to go for fake designer stuff, as well as other random knick-knacks, but prices here are on the high side.

However, if you’re looking for something special, I recommend visiting the French Concession.

Changle Lu (“lu” means street in Chinese) near Ruijin Lu is where you’ll find good boutiques by emerging Chinese fashion designers.

The area where Xinle Lu, Donghu Lu, and Fumin Lu intersect is where you’ll find nice home-wares, fashion, and restaurants.

And Jinxian Lu is another area in the French Concession with emerging local designers. All of these spots are the cool shopping areas where people “in the know” go.

11. Take a Day Trip to Smaller Towns

Shanghai can get overwhelming, so be sure to visit the small towns outside the city.

If you want to see traditional Chinese gardens, Suzhou can be visited as a day trip.

The train between Shanghai and Suzhou is really modern and fast, but be warned that getting around Suzhou itself can be a bit confusing and not many people there speak English.

Hangzhou is another popular side trip. The city is most famous for the pretty scenery and traditional buildings along its lake.

Or alternatively, you can visit Zhujiajiao, also known as water town, and where you can ride a gondola along the canals as though you’re in Venice.

12. Visit The Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Center

The Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Center has a fabulous collection of posters that give you a visual history of the country and help you understand the ideas put forth during the Cultural Revolution.

The museum is hidden away in the basement of an apartment building, so finding it is half the fun.

13. Get a Foot Massage

It may seem slightly random, but I recommend getting a foot massage in Shanghai. They’re really cheap and you can share the experience with a bunch of friends.

Just be sure to learn the word for “softer” because Chinese massages can be kinda painful!

14. Visit the Observation Deck of the Oriental Pearl Tower

For breathtaking vistas, head to the Observation Deck of the Oriental Pearl Tower in Shanghai.

Standing at an impressive height of 263 meters, this iconic observation deck offers a mesmerizing vantage point to admire the city’s skyline.

Take in the urban sprawl, marvel at the Huangpu River, and witness the vibrant cityscape come to life.

With its glass-bottomed observation deck and alluring transparent sightseeing corridor, the Oriental Pearl Tower is not for the faint-hearted!

15. Sky Walk Jin Mao Tower

Another exhilarating adventure to be had in Shanghai is on the skywalk at Jin Mao Tower.

Located on the 88th floor of this iconic skyscraper, it offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Step onto the 1.2-meter-wide glass platform, strap in, and marvel at the awe-inspiring views below.

With no rails to obstruct your sight, you’ll feel a rush of adrenaline as you walk along the 60-meter-long skywalk, suspended 340.6 meters above the ground.

This is the world’s highest outdoor glass skywalk, presenting an unmatched opportunity to witness the cityscape from a breathtaking perspective.

16. Watch A Performance at Shanghai Circus World

If you’re looking for things to do in Shanghai at night, be sure to check out a mesmerizing performance at Shanghai Circus World.

Find yourself immersed in a spectacle that combines acrobatics, live music, stunning visuals, and elaborate costumes.

Witness the perfect blend of traditional Chinese artistry and modern innovation as performers defy gravity with breathtaking feats and daring stunts.

17. Relax in Yu Garden

Step into a realm of tranquility at the Yu Garden, the largest urban park in Shanghai.

This gem, nestled in the heart of the Old City, offers a breathtaking escape from the bustling streets.

As you wander through its intricately designed landscapes, you’ll be transported to a bygone era of emperors and dynasties.

Marvel at the elegant pavilions, meandering bridges, and serene ponds adorned with vibrant lily pads.

Uncover the secrets of this 500-year-old garden, steeped in tradition and artistry.

18. Head Up The Second Tallest Building in the World: Shanghai Tower

Another pinnacle of modern architecture in Shanghai is the Shanghai Tower.

This vertical marvel pierces the sky, standing at a staggering height of 632 meters, making it the second tallest building in the world.

As you ascend through its sleek and futuristic interior, prepare to be awestruck by the panoramic views that unfold before your eyes.

The observation deck on the 118th floor offers an unparalleled vantage point, allowing you to witness the vibrant cityscape in all its glory.

19. Visit The Longhua Temple

With a legacy spanning over 1700 years, this ancient temple stands as a testament to China’s vibrant cultural heritage.

As you explore the temple grounds, you’ll be captivated by its serene atmosphere and exquisite architecture.

Marvel at the towering Longhua Pagoda and immerse yourself in the rituals and traditions of Buddhism.

Feel a sense of tranquility wash over you as you witness devotees offering their prayers and lighting incense.

Finding WiFi in Shanghai China

When you’re in need of internet, staying connected in China is not as easy as it is most countries.

Most hotels and hostels will provide wi-fi for guests, however, if you’ll be staying for a while I recommend getting your own travel VPN.

This is because a lot of popular websites (like Facebook) are blocked in China.

The city does have a free public wi-fi service, but I would never consider connecting to it as there are a lot of scam-y, fake services in Shanghai and you don’t want anyone hacking into your computer or accounts.

You can also get really cheap eSims from Airalo. You can set it up so it’s ready to go as soon as you arrive. That way you don’t have to worry about finding a local sim card. See prices and availability here.

Getting To And Around Shanghai

Shanghai has two airports, and if you’re traveling to or from Pudong International Airport, consider taking the high-speed train.

The Maglev goes at up to 268 mph, making it one of the fastest trains in the world. It’s worth taking the train just for the experience.

When it comes to getting around, Shanghai’s metro is fast, cheap, clean and really easy to use, with plenty of signage in English.

However, if you’ll have to make lots of transfers to get to your destination, a taxi can be a good option since they’re quite affordable (although you might have to contend with a bit of traffic).

Shanghai is a big city, so you’ll need to take some form of transport to get from point A to point B, but the city is quite walkable within the neighborhoods.

A lot of what there is to do in Shanghai is walk around and soak up the atmosphere.

Best Time of Year to Visit Shanghai

Shanghai gets crazy humid in the summer time – as in, you step out the front door and in about 30 seconds your clothes are soaked through with sweat. Ick.

So I would avoid summer, but any other time is good to visit.

Where to Stay in Shanghai

If you’re on a budget, I recommend the Shanghai Hidden Garden Hostel. The location in Pudong is right where everything is happening, as well as being opposite the Bund.

On the high end, the Langham Hotel in Xintiandi is a great choice. Their service is great and they are right by all the nice shopping and dining venues.

For more places to stay in Shanghai choose from the largest range of hotels, apartments, and guesthouses check the map below

Final Thoughts

I love Shanghai because the city is constantly growing and evolving so there’s always something new and exciting to discover.

Shanghai is China’s largest and richest city and has a captivating blend of Eastern and Western cultures, which makes it really easy to travel to as a Westerner.

With its innovative architecture, rich history, and lush nature, Shanghai has become one of China’s most vibrant metropolis.

We hope this guide gave you some ideas for what to do in Shanghai and inspired your trip.

Popular Shanghai Tours

More China Travel Tips

Need more inspiration for your trip to China? Check out these other resources…

• 34 things to know before you visit China
• What to Do in Beijing
• Climbing the Great Wall of China
• Hiking the Tiger Leaping Gorge, China

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Whether you’re staying for a few days or a week, you’ll find you’ll never run out of things to do in Beijing – there’s so much to see and explore.

As part of our city guides series, we interviewed Stephen Whale who lived in Beijing, China, and is well placed to talk about the top attractions in the city.

Stephen shares with us his insider Beijing travel tips and knowledge on things to do in Beijing for those looking for the best places to see, eat, stay, drink, and explore.

Is Beijing Worth Visiting?

Beijing is the capital of the most populous nation on earth and home to some of the most iconic tourist attractions. It has a long and fascinating history, and some of the countries oldest landmarks are located in the city – so for history buffs, it’s definitely worth visiting.

It’s also the closest city to the Great Wall of China, which is one of the main reasons why people visit Beijing. But aside from that, Beijing has plenty to offer.

It’s also a city undergoing tremendous change, so it’s worth visiting Beijing soon before the last of the traditional streets and hutongs are bulldozed in the name of progress.

Things to Do in Beijing

Beijing is not short of landmarks and places to visit. Below is a list of some of the most unmissable attractions in Beijing that you simply cannot miss.

A couple of warnings: avoid Beijing Zoo – it’s one of the few places in northern China to see Giant Pandas, but the living conditions are terrible.

Take the time to travel to Chengdu and visit the Panda Conservation Base instead. It’s still a bit questionable, but they’re at least helping the species.

1. Get Lost at The Forbidden City (Imperial Palace)

The big three things to do in Beijing are Tian’an’men Square, the Forbidden Palace, and Temple of Heaven.

The Forbidden City is a huge complex that stands as a testament to China’s rich history.

This iconic city, also known as the Imperial Palace, was built during the Ming Dynasty, and served as the imperial residence for emperors and empresses for over 500 years, housing emperors and their retinues.

Its significance lies not only in its grandeur but also in its symbolic representation of power and authority.

The intricate design, with its elaborate palaces, stunning courtyards, and ornate decorations, transports visitors to a time where emperors once ruled with absolute sovereignty.

It’s one of the most important landmarks in the city, so be sure to add it to your to-do list.

2. Pay Respects at Tian’anmen Square

Tian’anmen Square is an expansive square, spanning over 440,000 square meters, and has witnessed countless pivotal moments throughout the country’s history.

From historic celebrations to political demonstrations, it has served as a gathering place for the Chinese people for centuries.

Tian’anmen Square holds deep symbolic value as a testament to the resilience and unity of the Chinese nation.

It’s also surrounded by iconic landmarks like the Monument to the People’s Heroes, National Museum of China, and the Great Hall of the People.

Spend any time in Tian’an’men or Wangfujing and it’s inevitable that some friendly students will approach you looking to practice their English.

Chat to them by all means, but don’t accept their invitation for a drink as it turns into an expensive scam.

Likewise, ignore anyone who offers to show you some cut-price works by art students.

3. Try Skewered Insects at DongHuaMen Night Market

What better way to end a day than with a trip to DongHuaMen night market to sample the unusual foods on a stick, such as seahorses and scorpions.

This is a culinary haven for those adventurous foodies. With a rich history dating back centuries, this bustling night market has become an iconic destination for locals and tourists alike.

If you’re not brave enough to try skewered insects, how about trying a sizzling hotpot instead? The market embodies the spirit of Beijing’s vibrant street food culture, and is one of the best places to eat in the city.

4. Be Enchanted By The Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is an architectural marvel, built during the Ming Dynasty, and is a sacred site where emperors once performed ancient rituals to ensure a bountiful harvest.

The Temple of Heaven holds a special place in Chinese folklore, as well as being famous for its stunning design, with intricate details and magnificent color palettes.

Surrounded by tranquil gardens, it’s one of the best places to visit if you need to escape the chaos of Beijing’s traffic and honking.

5. Visit the Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple)

Other Beijing attractions you cannot miss are the ornate but busy Lama (YongHe) Temple or the nearby Confucius Temple that is generally much more serene.

The Lama Temple, also known as Yonghe Temple, is a Tibetan Buddhism temple that dates back to the early Qing Dynasty.

It was once the royal residence of Prince Yinzhen before he ascended to become Emperor Yongzheng.

Today, it’s considered one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist temples outside of Tibet.

6. Visit the Arts Districts

798 Art Zone is an artist’s haven created in a Bauhaus-designed ex-military factory. It’s peppered with some fine works of art, but it’s worth noting that up and coming artists are rapidly being ousted by rent increases, leaving it mostly inhabited by artists that are more established.

Cheaper and more adventurous art is still being created in Ai Weiwei’s Caochangdi Art District or Songzhuan Artist’s Village.

7. Take a Day Trip to The Great Wall of China

The most famous day trip from Beijing must be to the Great Wall of China. For those with only half a day, Badaling is very close to the city, but can be extremely busy.

For a different experience, it’s also possible to camp overnight there, on top of the Wall.

Slightly further away is Mutianyu – it’s a full day trip and a bit more climbing but you get to see unrestored wall rolling across the hills.

There are plenty of other ‘Wild Wall’ sections to enjoy hiking trails, but be careful as they can be poorly maintained and the emergency services won’t come and find you in the event of an injury.

If there’s time, take a trip to Cuandixia. It’s a village that has barely changed for 600 years. Stay overnight to experience the slower pace of rural village life, coal-heated beds and fresh and delicious locally grown food.

Read this post if you want to hike the Great Wall of China

8. Admire the Birds Nest

In the north of the city is the Beijing National Stadium, or Bird’s Nest. Used in the 2008 Olympics this stadium is best visited at dusk, just before the stadium and nearby Water Cube are colorfully illuminated at night.

The adjacent Olympic Park is a good place to catch a break from the crowds and traffic.

9. Explore The Summer Palace

For a break from the crowds head west. Haidian district is home to the tranquil Summer Palace (once a holiday home for the imperial family), Fragrant Hills walking trails and the Beijing Botanical Gardens.

The Summer Palace was originally built as a royal garden in the 18th century, as a retreat for emperors seeking respite from capital.

With its magnificent palace grounds, intricate gardens, and backdrop of the serene Kunming Lake, it surely does offer what it was intended.

10. Look Out For Beijing’s Modern Architecture

Beijing’s skyline is not only made up of ancient temples and palaces, but some modern architectural marvels as well.

Rising high above the city, the CITIC Tower, also known as China Zun, is Beijing’s tallest skyscraper and is a symbol of the nation’s progress and ambition.

Another iconic structure is the CCTV Headquarters building, an angular arch sometimes called ‘The Underpants’ – you’ll know it when you see it!

These contemporary buildings are a testament to China’s forward-thinking design and technology industry.

11. Try the Local Cuisine

The best food outlets in Beijing are often the cheapest and busiest. The high turnover ensures that it’s fresh and usually made to order.

Any street will have bun or dumpling shops where a filling meal can be had for 4-8rmb. For more upmarket soup dumplings look for the Taiwanese Ding Tai Fung chain.

In the morning keep an eye out for carts selling my favourite, a Jian Bing Chinese pancake.

Half a Peking Roast Duck – the strip on the right is considered the best piece and is reserved for guests. Of course, nearly everyone will want to try Peking Duck.

The most hyped is DaDong, famed for its crispy skin – it’s excellent duck but the side dishes aren’t up to the same standards given the high price.

Most tour groups will visit a brand of Quanjude, but as with DaDong you might notice a distinct lack of Beijingers eating there.

A good compromise is Bianyifan, which has been serving duck since 1416 and is a perfect combination of excellent duck and other dishes.

Beijing is also home to some of the best examples of regional Chinese cuisines. If you’re not travelling further in China take the opportunity to try spicy yet delicate Sichuan hotpot, rich in flavour Yunnan dishes or rustic Xinjiang lamb kebabs.

For a special meal look for Imperial food, as served to the Emperors, but be prepared to pay handsomely. The Beijinger website has a useful directory of English-friendly restaurants.

If you’ve somehow tired of Chinese food, then Sanlitun is home to the majority of foreign restaurants.

The South East Asian food is of particularly high quality, whilst the Italian and American dishes might leave a lot to be desired, and cost many times the price of a Chinese meal.

12. Enjoy a Drink in Sanlitun

There are two main areas to go for a drink in Beijing – Sanlitun and the hutongs around HouHai Lake.

In warm weather, it’s hard to beat sitting by the lake with a drink, accompanied by the sounds of local musicians.

If it’s a little cooler head to Sanlitun where it’s possible to find everything from grungy music dives to stylish private clubs.

Be wary of suspiciously cheap fake spirits – the headache isn’t worth it – but do try Chivas Regal whisky with green tea.

13. Watch an Evening Performance

The most popular things to do in Beijing at night are watch the Peking Opera, check out athletic or Kung Fu Shows, or chilling out to live music in HouHai and Nanluoguxiang.

A Peking Opera, sometimes referred to as Chinese Opera, is known for its colorful costumes, intricate makeup, and graceful movements.

Each scene tells of Chinese history and folklore, with a blend of music, singing, acrobatics, and martial arts.

For non-aficionados, the Peking Opera can be a bit much to endure and many people leave at the first interval, so an alternative is to visit Prince Gong’s Mansion near HouHai for a tour of the gardens and a 15-minute opera performance.

14. Hit the Shopping Malls

For luxury brands, Wangfujing is the premier shopping street, closely followed by Sanlitun Soho, although be aware there’s a 50% luxury tax on many items so you’re unlikely to find a bargain.

For less authentic goods, try the Pearl Market or Silk Market. Haggling is essential here, but well-made fake clothes, bags, watches and jewellery can be bought very cheaply. The hiking gear looks good, but I wouldn’t want to be wearing it in an emergency.

Cheaper but less English-language friendly is the Zoo Market, opposite Beijing Zoo, and you can find some real gems in the Panjiayuan Antiques Market.

15. Attend a Festival in Beijing

The absolute highlight is Chinese New Year when the city is a cacophony of fireworks for 15 days. It can wear thin after a week of sleepless nights…

The Cherry Blossom festival in YuYuanTan park is beautiful. Alternatively, the annual Lantern Festivals in the city parks provide a source of interesting nights out.

16. Head to the parks

If you need to escape the bustling metropolis, there are many urban parks that offer a serene oasis where nature can soothe the senses.

The fragrant gardens of Beihai Park are known for their tranquil lakes and ancient pagodas, while the vast expanse of Jingshan Park offers breathtaking vistas of the Imperial City.

Another popular park is Ritan Park which has an abundance of vibrant flora, or find serenity amid the harmonious blend of art and nature at the Olympic Forest Park.

Head to parks early to see people practicing Tai-Chi, or late to see them ballroom dancing. Feel free to join in!

17. Get a Foot Massage

After all this walking around, try a foot massage. US$10 will get you two hours of pampering, including healthy snacks and fruit juices.

Skilled therapists use ancient techniques passed down through generations, plus use aromatic oils and play soothing music create to create an ambiance of serenity.

If you’re in need of rejuvenation, it’s one of the top things to do in Beijing!

18. Visit the Ming Tombs

Located on the outskirts of Beijing are the Ming Tombs. These mausoleums, built during the Ming Dynasty, hold the remains of thirteen emperors and their consorts.

Each tomb is an architectural marvel, reflecting the beliefs and geomantic theories prevalent during that era.

The tombs’ strategic location and design showcase the profound influence of Fengshui in ancient Chinese culture.

19. Admire Views from The Bell Tower/ Red Drum Towers

If you want to get amazing views of the Beijing skyline, head to either The Bell Tower, or the Red Drum Towers, which offer amazing vistas of the city.

Dating back to the Yuan Dynasty, the towers served as a vital timekeeping center, where bronze clepsydras and resounding drums dictated the rhythm of daily life.

As you ascend its ancient steps, panoramic views of the city become present, but the towers also hold significance to the Chinese people and of Beijing’s past.

Getting To and Around Beijing

From Europe, the cheapest way to get to Beijing is always AeroFlot, but I tend to pay a little extra and use Lufthansa for more comfort and a working entertainment system.

Travelling to the US, American Airlines or Delta are cheapest, but I prefer Air China for the on-board dim sum.

If heading south to New Zealand or Australia, domestic flights in China can be very cheap, so it’s sometimes an option to fly via Shenzhen or Guangzhou and continue from there on an international ticket.

The next best option is trains. They’re very cheap, but the distances involved can take multiple days to cover. This is improving rapidly as China introduces high-speed rail services across the country.

When getting around Beijing, avoid the pedicabs in Beijing.

The cheapest way to get around Beijing is by metro – the price differs depending how far you go, but it never gets more expensive than ¥7 RMB ($0.96 USD).

It’s best avoided at rush hour. Many stations have maps in English but it’s worth carrying a subway map round anyway.

The easiest way to get around Beijing is by taxi. Prices start from ¥14 ( US$ 1.92) and costs ¥2.30 ($0.32) per kilometer afterwards.

Note that there’s a surcharge after 2km that won’t appear on the meter, so be prepared to pay the extra, but there’s no expectation of tipping.

Make sure you have your destination written down in Chinese – hotels can assist with this. To hail a taxi, don’t point – extend your hand with the palm downwards and waggle your fingers.

Whilst the taxis are generally helpful, there are a few unscrupulous drivers so it’s worth watching that the meter goes up evenly, and your change is real.

Stay away from the three-wheeled pedicabs. They’re dangerous and will almost always try to scam passengers, even Chinese.

Walking is an option around the major tourist sites such as Qianmen hutongs, Tian’anmen Square or Wangfujing. Most streets run North-South or East-West, so map reading is straightforward.

Beijing city is very flat but spread out, so if you travel much farther afield you’ll need to find transport – many hostels also offer a bicycle hire service.

In the hutongs, you can give your feet a break by hiring a rickshaw but negotiate a price before getting in.

Finding WiFi in Beijing

It’s very easy to find WiFi, but you should be aware that the government censors many social media web sites such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Twitter.

Google sometimes works, such as Gmail, but Google Maps doesn’t. Wikipedia is often blocked, but Wikitravel is generally OK.

Internet addicts may wish to invest in a cheap VPN to bypass the blocks if you’re spending a few weeks in China.

If you want to access these while you’re in China, you’ll need to purchase a VPN. You can try a VPN from NordVPN here, which comes highly recommended.

To find free Wifi you can go to international chains such as Starbucks, McDonalds, etc, or any local coffee shop – Maan is particularly fast. Some of these require a local telephone number to get free access.

There are plans to provide a WiFi cloud over Beijing, but it’s still in development.

You can also get really cheap eSims from Airalo. You can set it up so it’s ready to go as soon as you arrive. That way you don’t have to worry about finding a local sim card. See prices and availability here.

Best time of year to visit Beijing

The best time to visit Beijing is definitely the autumn from September/October. The winter brings the cold winds from Siberia and the spring breeze carries the dust from the Gobi Desert.

Summer can be very hot, whilst autumn is a much more comfortable temperature and the gentle breeze keeps the pollution at bay.

Avoid travelling during the Chun Yun migration which usually takes place in January and February (15 days before Chinese New Year), when half of the cities 20 million inhabitants go home to the countryside for their annual holiday.

Tourist sites are packed, whilst public transport and restaurants are understaffed.

Where to stay in Beijing

For sightseers, the area east of the Forbidden City is full of cheap accommodation. For hostels, there’s the well located YHA Peking International Youth Hostel.

For a budget hotel, friends have enjoyed the modern Hotel Kapok, again right next to the Forbidden ,City.

A couple of blocks east you come to Wangfujing where the high-end hotels are clustered.

The Mandarin Oriental is a personal favourite, and towers over DongHuaMen night market (due to reopen n 2016). Alternatively, look for a family-run traditional courtyard hotel in the same area.

If you’re going to be spending every night in the bars, it would be more convenient to be over by Sanlitun, where you’ll find most of the expats and backpackers hanging out in Bar Street.

For more places to stay in Beijing choose from the largest range of hotels, apartments, and guesthouses using the map below

Final Thoughts

There’s a lot not to love about Beijing – the pollution can be terrible, the crowds overwhelming and the traffic deadly, but once you cut through all of that and get on the streets the variety is amazing.

Everywhere you look you can find the blurring of borders between East & West, new & old, traditional and contemporary.

Walk through the quieter areas and every corner has an adventure, a friendly face or simply something very strange going on.

There aren’t enough capital cities where you don’t bat an eyelid when you see someone in their pyjamas singing opera and walking backwards with their pet bird to an alfresco tea dance.

More China Travel Guides

Need more inspiration for traveling to China? Check out these other resources!

• Things to Do in Shanghai
• 34 things to know about China before you visit
• 2 Week China Itinerary. Best places to visit
• Climbing the Great Wall of China
• Hiking the Tiger Leaping Gorge in China
• Incredible Things to do in Hong Kong
• First timers guide to Beijing

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Yangshuo is known for its stunning river winding through the karst mountain landscape and endless rice fields.

There are plenty of things to do in Yangshuo, but the most popular activity is to go for a bike ride.

We spent almost a week in the pretty village enjoying its relaxed atmosphere and had to drag ourselves away to explore more of the region and landscapes.

Here is what we discovered…

Cycling in Yangshuo

We decided to hire bicycles to go cycling through the Yangshuo countryside to the nearby town of Fuli.

It was a bumpy old back road that took us past farmers ploughing the fields with their buffaloes and little farm villages along the winding river.

We eventually arrived in the old Chinese town to wander the streets and to check out the strangely charming historic buildings and the fans they are famous for making.

As we were walking within the city walls by the river, we were accosted by a small group of elderly friends sitting around a table by the river under an umbrella playing cards, singing and chatting.

They were excited by the foreign visitors and filled us with endless cups of green tea, peanuts and biscuits.

When it became evident that communication in Chinese was not going to happen, they whipped out their pen and paper and wrote down what they wanted to say in Chinese characters.

Ahh! So that’s what you were trying to say.

When all else fails, you can turn to the universal language we all understand – music.

They got out their Chinese songbook, put on some music and started singing to us.

Slowly they began to unveil their good China for instruments, passing us the wooden bangers and clappers instead. And then we started jammin’.

We laughed and sang together, and I’m sure my attempts at following their lead to sing in Chinese sounded Russian to them, but they thoroughly enjoyed it and so did we.

Our Tommy Lee style finale got us big thumbs up and huge grins. They were really disappointed when it came time for us to bid them farewell.

Random travel encounters with the local people are so memorable.

Sometimes even more so than the beauty of the jungled river landscape.

What have been some of your memorable cycling or random stranger meetings on your travels?

Getting A Bike Rental in Yangshuo

The good news is you will find plenty of bike rental shops in Yangshuo in the West Street area.

Some accommodations come with free bikes you can use, or have their own bike rental facilities, so it’s a good idea to check with your hotel before you rush out to the hire shops.

Renting bikes is also super cheap. You can get a Chinese bike (without gears) for as little as $1.50 USD per day, or a mountain bike for around $3.00 USD per day.

The highest quality bikes are $6.50 USD per day, but you really don’t need anything fancy to cycle in Yangshuo as it’s pretty much all flat.

FAQs About Biking in Yangshuo

Here’s what people usually ask us about cycling in Yangshuo…

What is the best route to cycle in Yangshuo?

There are many cycling routes in Yangshuo and the one you choose largely depends on what you want to see and how long you want to cycle.

Here is a quick overview of each route:

Yangshuo to the Ancient Jiuxian Village

This route passes along the Yulong River and takes you to a quaint, old village with only 44 traditional houses. The route is about 15km and takes 2 hours to complete.

Along the way you will pass the Jima Wharf where you may see buffaloes grazing in the fields, before ending at Jiuxian Village.

Yulong River Loop

This 30km cycle route takes you on a full loop of the Yulong River and combines a visit to Jiuxian Village, the Gongnong Bridge and Xiangui Bridge, Jima Wharf and Shuiedi Wharf.

This is a great half day cycle route for those who want to see incredible scenery.

Moon Hill Cycle Route

This is a 26km cycle route that takes you through the small villages and countryside to the limestone rock formation known as Moon Hill, which is an arch with a window in the middle.

Fuli and Xingping

This is one of the longest routes in Yangshuo and the one we decided to take. It’s about 55km and takes you past Pantao Hill, Bilian Hill, the Li River and finally to the market town of Fuli.

You can continue on to the town of Xingping where you can take a cruise on the Li River with bamboo rafts, but we decided to turn back as we enjoyed the views on the way to Fuli.

Before You Go

If you’re planning on cycling in Yangshuo, be sure to organize your eSim card. We get ours through Airalo.

Setting up an eSim is even easier than buying a sim card. All you do is install the app, choose your destination and package, install the eSim and then activate it.

It’s only $5 for 1 GB data for 7 days, or $9 for 3 GB data for 30 days.

When traveling in China, you will also want a VPN, so you can access many sites typically blocked by China. Grab your VPN for China here.

You can also get really cheap eSims from Airalo. You can set it up so it’s ready to go as soon as you arrive. That way you don’t have to worry about finding a local sim card. See prices and availability here.

Further Reading on China Travel

Looking for more travel tips for China? Then check out the following resources…

• 2 Week China Itinerary – Unmissable Places to Visit in China
• 34 Essential Things to Know Before Visiting China
• Wondering What to Do in Beijing, China? Read on
• Climbing the Great Wall of China
• What are the best things to do in Shanghai?
• Hiking the Tiger Leaping Gorge in China
• 15 Best things to do in Hong Kong

When climbing the Great Wall of China, it’s important to know which section of the wall is right for you and what experience you want to get out of the climb.

For example, Badaling is easily accessible, immaculately restored and extremely crowded, but then there are sections like Gubiekou that are hard to reach, largely in ruins and fairly isolated.

If you want to get off the main tourist trail and get the true experience of the wonder and explore a more urban, off-the-beaten-path section of the Great Wall, then you’re going to want to visit Jiankou.

This 20km stretch of the wall is non-ticketed, has not been restored, and is less visited by tourists – all the more reason to visit.

In this guide, I’ve shared details about each section of the Great Wall of China and how you can climb the Jiankou section.

The Sections of The Great Wall of China

Climbing the Great Wall of China is a bucket list experience for most, so it’s important to do it right. Here is an overview of each area of the wall you can climb.

Badaling

Badaling is the most famous section of the wall to climb, since it’s the closest to Beijing (about 80km away). This section of the wall was built in 1505, at the time of the Ming Dynasty and is the most renovated area of the wall.

It was built to protect the Juyongguan Pass and the city of Beijing from invaders, as well as being a border control for Silk Road merchants.

This part of the wall has undergone restoration and was the first section to open to the public in 1957.

Although busy, Badaling is 4.7 miles of historical monument that really showcases the mystique of this expansive piece of construction. Really the only downside to visiting Badaling is the people, but you can avoid this by waking up early and being the first person to the wall.

It’s easy to get to, you can simply catch a train from Beijing to Badaling. It’s become hugely touristy nowadays and is lined with hotels, ever-present souvenir hawkers, restaurants serving western-styled food and even a cable car.

Simatai

Located in the north of Miyun District, 120 kilometers northeast of Beijing, is the Simatai section of the Great Wall of China.

This section dates back to 550–577, to the time of the Northern Qi Dynasty, and was rebuilt by Hongwu Emperor in the Ming dynasty.

Simatai’s Great Wall is a lot smaller than Badaling but is still largely well preserved. It spans for 5.4km and has a total of 35 beacon towers and watch towers.

It also has several passageways and garrison stations that were used during raids.

This part of the wall has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What’s unique about Simatai is the terrain. Nestled in the Yan Mountains, it’s a steeper section of the wall and even has open-air gondolas to help the hordes of tourists ascend part of the wall.

Gubeikou

Gubeikou is also located in the Miyun District in northeastern Beijing, and this section of the wall was used as an ancient checkpoint between Northeast China and Beijing.

The wall here has not been reconstructed and has largely been reclaimed by nature. It’s harder to access but that means less tourists.

It stretches for 40 kilometers and has 172 watchtowers and 14 beacon towers.

It was first built in 550-557 at the time of the Northern Qi Dynasty but was rebuilt by General Xuda in the early Ming Dynasty.

Jiankou to Mutianyu

After visiting the more well-known sections of the Great Wall, I was ready for some hard core wall hiking.

I was ready for Jiankou.

The Jiankou section of the Great Wall, which is extremely difficult and dangerous to climb in some sections, joins the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall (the second most preserved section of the Great Wall).

It has incredible vistas, undeveloped sections, a dense area of reclaimed wall, and is very hard to access and a must do for any serious Great Wall enthusiast.

Basically walking the Jiankou section is an adventure that no other section of the Great Wall can provide, and is the best section to visit if you don’t have the tolerance for crowds.

Jiankou is a Ming Dynasty section of the Great Wall and built in 1368 along steep mountain ridges and tall cliffs.

In these areas where the wall has been destroyed by natural degradation, the only way up or down the wall is over crumbling ruins with very steep climbs or vertical surfaces.

The plan for Climbing the Great Wall of China

The Jiankou section of the Great Wall stretches from the Nine Eye Tower (Jiu Yan Lou) in the north to Zheng Bei Lou in the south-east and has around 22 towers.

I heard that Jiankou does not take more than a few hours strenuous walk so my plan was to hike from the Nine Eye Tower past Zhengbeilou towards the Mutianyu section.

If I could not reach the Mutianyu section by 4 or 5pm, I’d stop at that time, leave the wall and make my way back to Beijing.

This plan sounded nice in theory but did not work in practice.

Getting to Jiankou section of the Great Wall of China

The starting point for hiking Jiankou is a small village called Xi Zha Zi that is around 75-80 kilometers north of Beijing and hard to reach.

To get to the village you first catch the subway to Dongzhimen station on line two then catch the 916 express bus at Dongzhimen Wai long distance bus station.

The bus station is right next to exit B at Dongzhimen station and hard to miss.

The 916 express bus takes around 90 minutes and terminates at a small city called Huairou where you get off at the last stop. From Huairou you catch a taxi to the village and the taxi ride takes just over one hour.

At Huairou, you’ll be mobbed by black (unofficial) taxi drivers as soon as you step off the bus who will all want to take you to the Great Wall.

They will probably offer to take you to the village for around 200rmb which is way too much. A fair price is around 100 to 120rmb so don’t pay more.

I ended up paying 80rmb after half an hour of haggling and the taxi was a small old rust bucket with a tiny fuel efficient engine.

The drive from Huairou to the village is through the mountains and very enjoyable with gorgeous scenery.

The taxi driver Mr Ma told me there was no way I’d make the hike from Nine Eye Tower to Mutianyu so we agreed that either he or one of his buddies would pick me up in the afternoon near the Zhengbeilou.

From the Village to the Great Wall of China

The village is small and only has a population of around 300 people who are mostly farmers. Walking through the village is a great way to see a side of China that most tourists never experience.

Once you pass through the village, there are a number of paths you can take and only one of the paths heads towards Nine Eye Tower.

I had to ask for directions three times to find right path. The locals are friendly so if you are not sure, ask for “jiu yan lou” or just point at the wall which is clearly visible I the distance look lost.

Looking lost was not hard to do and worked for me.

Once you are on the path, the way to go is clear and you will have no problem reaching the wall.

The path goes through very heavy scrub and reaches the wall north of Beijing Knot after 30 minutes of walking, and then I was on top of the Great Wall of China!

What Does the Jiankou Wall Look Like?

The wall was nothing like what I expected and these three words sum the wall up perfectly.

Overgrown, dangerous and awesome. There is also a lot less foot traffic here as I barely saw anyone.

I estimate that at least 80% of the Great Wall was intact with the battlements and the road/path between the battlements in surprisingly good condition.

The main areas where the battlements and the road were in ruins or had been destroyed was in the very steep sections south of the Beijing Knot.

Overgrown

Walking the intact sections of the Great Wall of China would have been very easy if those sections were not overgrown.

I’m not talking about a few weeds and the occasional shrub. I am talking about serious overgrowth with very thick shrubs, grass, weeds and small trees.

Walking the wall in these parts was like walking through a jungle with the sky blocked by foliage and no sense of direction. The path through the jungle was very narrow, and in some parts, you had to squeeze through entangled shoots and branches.

I’ve seen the wall restored and in immaculate condition, in complete ruins and in various states of disrepair, but I have never seen a relatively intact wall like the Jiankou section that was so overgrown and covered in vegetation.

This part of the wall does not need restoration. It needs weeding. Badly.

Dangerous

I always thought that Jiankou’s reputation for being dangerous was exaggerated but I was very wrong.

The northern section of Jiankou from the Nine Eye Tower to the Beijing Knot is safe and easy to walk.

The section from Beijing knot to Zhengbeilou is extremely dangerous with three areas where the wall has been destroyed and you have to use hand and foot holds to climb up.

Like rock climbing without the safety rope.

One of these sections is especially dangerous and so steep that the surface of the wall is basically vertical.

Being stupid and reckless, I climbed all the dangerous sections, even the vertical section.

I was half way up vertical section and running out of hand and footholds when it finally occurred to me the dangerous the wall was in and how stupid I was to try and climb it.

There were various times when I thought about turning back, but the views and thrill of it all kept me going.

Plus, at this stage, climbing back downhill was much more dangerous than continuing so I ignored the drop below, stopped thinking about how the bricks and rocks I was clinging to were laid over 600 years ago, resisted the urge to panic and kept climbing.

The drop from these steep sections can be over 6 meters and the bottom is rock and brick so if you fall, you are going to break something and will definitely not be walking away.

Jiankou is an extremely isolated section of the wall and I only saw two other people that day.

If you hurt yourself there, you may not get help for a long time and the nearest hospital is hours away. People have died climbing Jiankou so be aware of the danger and be careful.

Getting Back to Beijing from Jiankou

Walking and climbing Jiankou took much longer than expected so I could not even reach Zhengbeilou.

In the end, I ran out of time and had to leave the wall at Lian Kou at around 4:15pm. The walk from the wall down the mountain to the pickup point took around 45 minutes.

I called Mr Ma on the walk back to let him know I was on my way and he said one of his buddies would be there.

I reached the pick up point and there was no driver, so I called Mr Ma again who said no one was coming to pick me up, hung up on me and refused to take any more calls.

Wow.

So what do you do when you are stuck in the middle of nowhere with the sun setting?

Start walking, stick your thumb out and hope for a lift.

After around an hour of walking, I managed to catch a lift with a very friendly family from Beijing who were great.

They dropped me off at a bus stop on a some main road and I caught a bus an hour later to Huairou.

By that time were no more buses to Beijing so I found a taxi and negotiated a lift to the nearest Beijing subway station for 80rmb. I eventually arrived back at the hostel at 11pm.

An exciting end to an exciting day. Despite the challenges, it was still a whole lotta fun.

Where to stay in Beijing

• For sightseers, the area east of the Forbidden City is full of cheap accommodation.
• For hostels, there’s the well located YHA Peking International Youth Hostel.
• For a budget hotel, friends have enjoyed the modern Hotel Kapok, again right next to the Forbidden City.
• A couple of blocks east you come to Wangfujing where the high-end hotels are clustered.
• The Mandarin Oriental is a personal favourite, and towers over DongHuaMen night market (due to reopen n 2016). Alternatively, look for a family-run traditional courtyard hotel in the same area.
• If you’re going to be spending every night in the bars, it would be more convenient to be over by Sanlitun, where you’ll find most of the expats and backpackers hanging out in Bar Street.

Tips for Climbing the Great Wall of China

Before you go, here are some words of advice to help your climb run smoothly.

• It can be quite a workout climbing the wall, so wear loose trousers and leave your denim at home.
• Wear comfortable shoes such as sneakers or hiking boots. Heels, wedges, and open-toed sandals are not appropriate.
• Wear clothing in layers so you can take them off. It can be cold when you start but when you hike, perspiration sets in and you’ll want to cool down. Wear a light sweater.
• Bring your own snacks as refreshment stands are expensive.
• There are no facilities such as bathrooms along the wall, so try not to overdo it on the water intake so you don’t have to take regular bathroom breaks. There is a bathroom at the ticket office entrance to the Badaling section.
• Be aware of the occasional pickpocket. This isn’t usual at the Jiankou section, more the busier sections such as Badaling and Simatai.
• Visit early in the day to avoid the bus loads of people who turn up around 10am.
• An important note of caution, remember the wall is the result of mostly manual labor 600 years ago by an ancient Chinese civilization, and therefore it’s not the sturdiest of structures in places. Always watch your footing, don’t take any risks, and be mindful not to cause any damage to the wall.
• You can also get really cheap eSims from Airalo. You can set it up so it’s ready to go as soon as you arrive. That way you don’t have to worry about finding a local sim card. See prices and availability here.

Best Time to Visit The Great Wall of China

When it comes to visiting the Great Wall of China, timing can make all the difference in creating a memorable experience.

Arguably the best times of year to visit is during the spring months of March to May.

This season offers ideal conditions in terms of weather for exploring this great engineering feat.

Not only will you avoid the blistering summer heat and the bitter cold of winter, but you’ll also have the advantage of fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season from June to August.

The shoulder seasons of May and September to early October are also a good time of year to visit to avoid a lot of avid hikers.

Spring also brings better light conditions for photography and more daylight hours for exploring, as well as blooming landscapes, allowing you to experience the grandeur of the wall with a backdrop of breathtaking scenery.

Final Thoughts

It is said that Zhengbeilou is one of the most popular sections of the Great Wall of China for photography and with high altitudes of up to 991 meters, the jaw-dropping views and scenery are fantastic.

I was unfortunate not to make it that far on this Great Wall trip due to my lack of knowledge and know-how, so hopefully this guide will help you prepare better so you can make the entire journey.

My next Great Wall of China trip will be to walk from Zhengbeilou all the way to Mutianyu.

More Tips for Traveling in China

Need more inspiration for your trip to China? Here are some other guides!

• Key Things to know before you visit China
• Tips for First Time Visitor to Beijing
• What to Do in Beijing
• Things to Do in Shanghai
• 2 Week China Itinerary

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With a total metropolitan population of 22 million, it is home to almost 10 million more people than the London metro area, and 3 million more people than New York City’s metropolitan area, and boy do you feel it.

But while Beijing may feel overwhelming for first time visitors, if you go in armed with the know-how and advice, and feel somewhat organized, you can be in for a really incredible experience.

Beijing is a melting pot of ancient cultures, architectural gems, and unique travel experiences.

To ensure you have the best trip possible, here are some of our top tips for your first time visiting Beijing.

Things To Know Before Visiting Beijing

From knowing where to stay, what to eat, how to get around, and what to see, these are the most important things you should know before you go to Beijing…

1. Don’t Miss The Important Beijing Landmarks

Just as London is critical to England’s history, Beijing is critical to the rich history of China.

For centuries, Beijing, formerly known as Peking, has served as the cultural and political hub of China.

The Beijing visitor will be delighted by a host of historical palaces, ancient temples, huge stone walls, and state-of-the-art new architecture.

Be sure not to miss these landmarks…

The Forbidden City

The Ming and Qing emperors of China built an impressive palace in the center of Beijing , starting in early the 15th century.

By the time it was completed in 1420, the palace included 980 buildings, 8,707 rooms, and covered a total of almost 8 million square feet.

In 1987, the Forbidden City was named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Open to tourists, the Forbidden City is a must-see for anyone with an interest in Chinese history or art.

Tiananmen Square, the largest city square in the world, also borders the Forbidden City.

Temple of Heaven

In the southeastern part of the city lies the Temple of Heaven, a Taoist complex.

Constructed at the same time as the Forbidden City, the temple is important both in terms of its religious significance in China and its historical significance.

In 1998, it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its amazing architecture and landscape design.

Thirteen Tombs of the Ming Dynasty

Even in death, the Chinese emperors made sure to leave their mark. Also a World Heritage Site, these elaborate tombs were excavated in 1956 by Chinese archaeologists.

Unfortunately, Cultural Revolution fervor stopped the excavation and led to some destruction of the artifacts originally excavated, but the museum still contains many well-preserved artefacts from the tombs.

National Center for the Performing Arts

Also known as the National Grand Theatre, the center is an opera house made of titanium and glass, surrounded by a large artificial lake. West of Tiananmen Square, the hall is home to opera, symphonies, and plays.

Wangfujing Street

One of the busiest pedestrian streets in the world, Wangfujing is home to almost 300 brands of Beijing, including famous hat, shoe, and tea stores.

The Night Market offers exotic street food that includes fried scorpions and unusual sea creatures – western stomachs, be warned!

Wangfujing Cathedral

Not far from Wangfujing’s shopping district is a Catholic cathedral built by the Jesuits in the mid-17th century.

It is an odd bit of European architecture in a city that otherwise blends mostly ancient Chinese architecture with modern westernized skyscrapers.

The Imperial Summer Palace

The Summer Palace was once the getaway for the Emperors and Empresses who needed a quiet retreat from the chaos of Beijing.

The picturesque setting next to the Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill make the palace a serene sanctuary.

Lama Temple

The Lama Temple, also known as Yonghe gong, is one of the most famous temples in Beijing,

With its vibrant colors and spiritual ambiance, as soon as you walk through its ornate gates you’ll feel the tranquility and reverence of the place.

The temple’s impressive architecture and intricate Tibetan-style artwork set it apart from other temples in the city.

Be sure to check out the Hall of Heavenly Kings and Pavilion of Ten Thousand Happinesses.

2. Don’t Avoid The Hutongs

Hutongs are small, narrow alleyways that usually contain local restaurants. They are a window into the traditional way of life and a cultural experience not to miss.

3. Don’t drink the tap water

Only drink bottled water, as the tap water is not safe to drink in Beijing.

4. Get a VPN

China is famous for having the Great Firewall over the People’s Republic of China, and so there is a block on Western internet sites and social media apps, such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, even Whatsapp.

You may also find most Google products such as Gmail and Google Maps are blocked too. Think you can use Google Translate to help with the language barrier? That’s blocked too.

But don’t worry, there is a way around all of this. Get a VPN (Virtual Private Network).

They are completely legal and are necessary for accessing the apps you use at home. Even if it is just to stream on Netflix (yes, that’s blocked too).

You’ll also want to get an eSim before arrival to access the internet. You can also get really cheap eSims from Airalo. You can set it up so it’s ready to go as soon as you arrive. That way you don’t have to worry about finding a local sim card. See prices and availability here.

5. Get the Subway, avoid Taxis

The best way to get around Beijing is using the metro. Taxi drivers don’t speak English, which can make getting around difficult since you will need to show them an address in Chinese characters (simplified Chinese, not Traditional!)

There are usually subway stations at most tourist attractions, it’s really cheap, and quite easy to navigate once you get the hand of it.

The subway also has ticket machines that can be translated into English, and all announcements are made in Mandarin and English.

6. Watch out for the tea scam!

Generally Chinese people are hospitable and welcoming of foreigners, but there are some who take advantage.

It’s quite common for tourists to became a victim of the “tea scam” which can dampen a trip.

If someone comes up to you and asks if you want to go for a “traditional Chinese tea” then move on.

They advertise it as a cultural experience, but what ends up happening is you go for tea, they order a bunch of stuff, and you end up paying for it. Sometimes it can rack up to $150 USD.

And they won’t let you go unless you pay it.

7. Be comfortable with lack of personal space

Beijing is overcrowded and busy at all times, so no matter what time of year you visit be prepared to be thrown into the crowds.

Space is a luxury in Beijing, so expect your accommodation to be small, and there to be loud noises everywhere you go.

Peak hour on the subway is madness! Try to avoid traveling on public transport at this time. Just wait in a lovely park for an hour or so until it calms down.

8. Wear masks

You may be wondering why people in Beijing wear masks, and it’s largely due to the air pollution.

Beijing has poor air quality most of the time due to smog, and while it won’t kill you, it may irritate your sinuses.

You can wear a mask to help with this. Hey, after COIVD we’re all used to this!

9. Make sure you try Peking Duck

Beijing is known for its regional cuisine such as crispy pork, Sichuan noodles, soup dumplings, and of course, peking duck.

As the birthplace of this iconic dish, Beijing offers the most authentic and flavorful experience.

Renowned for its crispy skin and succulent meat, Peking duck is still made in a traditional way which involves roasting the duck until the skin turns golden and crispy.

Served with delicate pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce, every bite of Peking duck is a delightful explosion of taste.

10. Be prepared for the squatty potty

If you’ve traveled in Asia before, you may have come across the squat toilets in public toilets.

If you haven’t, you’re in for a real culture shock. These type of toilets are really common in China and it’s rare that they come with toilet paper.

Your hotel and some upscale restaurants may have a Western-style toilet, but I guarantee at some point you will encounter one of these.

Oh and ladies, take hand sanitizer with you.

11. Get your Visa Early!

Most countries need a visa to enter China, so be sure to get your visa well in advance as it can take a number of weeks to be approved.

The application process is quite in-depth, so be sure to fill in the paperwork correctly.

12. Get WeChat

The Chinese use WeChat for everything, from booking tables in a restaurant to paying for groceries.

In most places, you can pay for things with your credit or debit card, but in some places you may find that they only accept WeChat Pay.

The downside to WeChat is you need two current WeChat users to verify your account. If you don’t know anyone in China, ask your hotel reception to help you set it up.

Once you’re on WeChat, you will find traveling in Beijing is much easier.

13. Take out Small Amounts of Cash

Don’t bother with currency exchange places, as they often rip you off with poor exchange rates.

Take out a small amount of cash from ATMs and use your card for most purchases. Most places accept card, so cash isn’t really needed.

If you have a travel credit card, this should work out the cheapest way of paying for things.

14. Don’t Tip

China is one of those countries where tipping is seen as offensive, rude and embarrassing.

The only service in which you might want to tip is if you have a tour guide, but they will usually say they if accept tips to avoid any embarrassment.

Where to stay in Beijing

• For sightseers, the area east of the Forbidden City is full of cheap accommodation.
• For hostels, there’s the well located YHA Peking International Youth Hostel.
• For a budget hotel, friends have enjoyed the modern Hotel Kapok, again right next to the Forbidden City.
• A couple of blocks east you come to Wangfujing where the high-end hotels are clustered.
• The Mandarin Oriental is a personal favourite, and towers over DongHuaMen night market (due to reopen n 2016). Alternatively, look for a family-run traditional courtyard hotel in the same area.
• If you’re going to be spending every night in the bars, it would be more convenient to be over by Sanlitun, where you’ll find most of the expats and backpackers hanging out in Bar Street.

For more places to stay in Beijing choose from the largest range of hotels, apartments, and guesthouses using the map below.

Final Thoughts

China is a bucket list destination for many people, especially those looking to get a rich and immersive cultural experience.

While Beijing is big, crowded, and chaotic, it’s also a cultural gem and one of the best travel experiences you can have.

We hope this guide to useful tips to know before visiting Beijing was useful to you.

Of course, you can find so much more in your Lonely Planet Guidebooks and I highly recommend you befriend a local to show you around.

If you need more tips or advice, feel free to reach out to us in the comments!

More China Travel Tips

Need more tips for visiting China? Check out these other guides…

• What to Do in Beijing
• Things to Do in Shanghai
• Cycling Through Yangshuo Countryside China
• Climbing the Great Wall of China
• Hiking the Tiger Leaping Gorge in China
• Essential Things to Know Before Visiting China
• 2 Week China Itinerary – Unmissable Places to Visit in China
• Incredible Things to do in Hong Kong