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China

Experiential journeys will make you a storyteller
About China

 Being the most populated country in the world, China needs to heed to different kinds of people’s needs, likes and interests and is equipped well enough just for that. The tourist places in China offer the best of the experiences to be offered. Apart from the giant population, it also attracts huge herds of crowds during its high season making it even more crowded than it already is. A recent study showed that China is the 4th most visited country in the world for tourism. The country is also known as the “oriental pearl” given its 5000 years of history and deep culture that it still preserves in some way through its heritage sites and cultural practices.

It is one of the richest countries in terms of tradition and practices, while also booming in business and economy. The country has quite a lot to see from traditional rice paddies to temples and ancient cities which are of special interests especially to the Indian tourists, proven by the fact that tourist from India have been on the rise for the past few years. Although having a strong sense of culture is still alive, the country has managed to develop with trends along with the rest of the world and also happens to have the largest economy in the world with flourishing business practices.

Thus, China not only attracts tourists but also business and student travellers. It goes without saying that it is also one of the best places for shopping at a lower price, if you aren’t particular about quality and brands. With a plethora of things to do and tourist places in China, planning might leave you in confusion or you might miss out on some of the unexplored activities and places. Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions while travelling to China to make your trip as comfortable and fruitful as possible:

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China FAQ's

Travel Advice

  • Avoid carrying too much cash in your pockets.

  • Never flash your jewelry or valuables in a crowded place.

  • If possible stay in a hotel that offers a room safe. Place all your valuables and jewelry in the room safe.

  • Carry with you a first aid box with medicines that may be needed during the trip.

  • Toilet tissue is rarely found in public restrooms in China. Carry your own supplies.

  • Learn some of the common words of language prevalent here or use language apps to communicate with the local people.  

  • Always greet the locals with a smile.

  • Keep a copy of license or an ID proof with you always.

  • Avoid the touts.

  • When eating at street stalls, check for the quality.

  • Dress appropriately and maintain the decorum of the place.

  • Nudity is not an option here.

  • Never get involved in any form of fights or verbal spats with the tourists.

  • Keep a medicine to relieve you from motion sickness.

  • Don't indulge in any form of drugs.

Drinking Law

The legal age for drinking in China is 18 years.

Our Recommendations: What you can’t afford to miss?

Great Wall Of China

Going by the popular saying – Nobody can be a real hero unless of course he has been to the Great wall of China. The magnificent attraction is locally known as the Changcheng or the Long Wall. It is stretched over an area of 6,000 kilometers from the Shanhaiguan fortress from the east and Jiayuguan in the west. The wall also passes through the Beijing where you can check out the best preserved section of the wall – Gansu, Ningxia and Mongolia. Rising 16 meters in height, the Great wall of China has an average height of six to eight meters. The wall boasts of innumerable watchtowers and battlements going back to as far as the 7th Century BC. Its best known areas were however added around the 210 BC when several sections joined in.    


Forbidden City and Imperial Palace, Beijing

One of the largest and definitely the most important building in China is the Forbidden City. Located in the heart of the city, it is also known as the Imperial Palace. One of the most important place to see in China, it is spread over an area of 720,000 square meters and is shielded by a huge 10 meter wall with wide moat and watch towers. Commenced during the period spanning from the 1271-1368, major chunk of the complex as seen today was built only during the period between 1406 and 1420.      


The Terracotta Army

In the year 1970, on the outskirts of Xi'an while the farmers were digging the wells, they stumbled across something that is undoubtedly the most pivotal archeological find of China which is the Terracotta Army. It was built to guard the First Emperor's tomb. Distributed over three massive underground pits, this is indeed one of the key sightseeing attraction of china.


The Summer Palace

Imperial Summer Palace is an easy 15 km commute from Beijing. Nestled over 700 acres of the beautiful parkland, it is indeed the most attractive tourist attraction in China. Built in the year 1153, the lake of the palace was only added in the 14th century to accentuate the beauty of the Imperial Gardens. Some notable attractions of the place include the the beautiful Great Theatre which was built in the year 1891 and Hall of Well-being and Longevity with a throne, Great Theatre is a private three-story structure which was built to satiate the love of opera of the royal family residing here.  


Li River

In the north east corner of the Guangxi, lies the town of Guilin. It boasts of some of most magnificent countryside and is largely known for its crystal clear waters that meanders all across the town and its ring of mountains. This fascinating scenery has attracted different artists and poets over the years. It has always been the subject of several legends and fairy tales. The lake is majorly inundated with tourists from across the globe. People come here to see this natural splendor from up and close. The best way to explore the La River is by going on a boat ride. So cruising the Li River is definitely one of the most important things to do in China.     


Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Your visit to China will be incomplete without having at least one panda experience. Though the top zoo of the country boasts of several fine specimens of the fascinating creatures, the best place to see the pandas in their natural habitat is the Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in Chengdu that lies in the province of Sichuan. Here you’ll have a chance to view as many as 80 pandas performing their daily routines here. English language tours are available here. So, those who wish to learn further about this breeding center can avail one of these tours.  


The Yangtze River and Three Gorges

The Yangtze River is known as Chang Jiang meaning Long River in China. This beautiful river extends over an area of 6000 km which makes it the most prominent river of China. Further, it is also the third largest river in the world only after Amazon and Nile. The river passes from the Tibet in the west to Shanghai in the east and also through eight other provinces. Been in the existence for over 2000 years, it is key transportation route on China. Some 2700 km from the river are navigable. Accredited to its vast catchment area joined by the 700 tributaries, the river covers approximately one fifth of the area of the country. Given its length, you can reach the river from several points in China. By far the most favorite and popular points are its three gorges – Xiling, Wu and Qutang.    


What you will like there?

The Vast and Diverse Landscape

From villages to cities, cruising rivers to hiking mountains, trekking or just exploring the beauty of the surroundings, the vast and diverse landscape of China has something for everyone. The rural plains that you see in the Southern Province area are a delightful contrast to the boisterous cities of Shanghai and Beijing. For the adventure seekers, there are a number of mountain ranges such as Wu Tai Shan, Wudang Shan, Emei Shan and Mian Shan. You can take a stroll through the city walls in the ancient city walls of X’ian and Pingyao.  


The Food

There is nothing like the authentic Chinese food. It is way more varied and delicious. Whether you eat at the local restaurant or sample the street food, every province of the China assures a unique set of dishes. Right from the hot and spicy dishes of the Hunan province, famous Szechuan pepper dishes to the Beijing’s established (Peking) duck dishes, the variety is huge and indeed yummilicious. The best thing about the Chinese food is that it is inexpensive so you’ll not mind hogging on the tasty Chinese food here


You Will Become a Hardened Traveler

Undoubtedly, China is one of the hardest places to travel in. When you enter the city, you must encounter the biggest cultural shocks of your life. It may be unsurprising, if you spend the first few days in complete bewilderment here. One, the language is going to be a barrier here and two the trails are tough so you are sure to become a hardened traveler in just few of your days in China. Take note you’ll need extra patience here so be prepared.   


Traditional Chinese Medicine & Massage

In China, massage is not just a special treat rather it is more like a way of life. There are several different kinds of traditional massage therapies in Chinese medicine that will relax and rejuvenate you. The Chinese spas and massage parlors offer authentic massages at a very reasonable price.


Shopping

Shopping in China can be double the fun. Right from the scarves to the traditional suits, tea to the curios, fake branded handbags to the latest real pearls, shopping in China can be really addictive.

Pandas

Love pandas? Enough said, it is time you plan a visit to China and go on exploring the fluffy pandas here.

Recommended reads for destination

When is the best time to visit China?

Although China has a tourism friendly weather almost all throughout the year, late spring and early autumn would be the best time to visit the country.

 

  • The months of April, May and September, October enjoy an average temperature making it a good time to explore the natural beauty side of the country as well as the city. It is best to avoid travelling to China during the monsoon season as it sometimes experiences heavy rainfall barring you from enjoying many activities in the region.
  • However, as China is already overpopulated and the tourists just add to the crowds, for those travellers looking to holiday in peace, November to March (low season) would be the best time to make your trip.

How to reach China?

Travelling to China will never be a problem. Having the largest economy in the world, China has people travelling in from all around the world and thus are very well equipped with flights from everywhere.

  • For travellers from India, the most popular routes are either from Delhi or Mumbai to Shanghai or Beijing, according to your convenience. It takes approximately 6 to 7 hours of flight journey to reach there depending on where you are travelling from.
  • Once you arrive there, there are convenient metros to take you to the city you wish to visit.

Do I need a visa for China? How does one get a China visa?

Yes, you require a visa for your visit to China. It is important to remember that Indian Passport holders are not entitled to visa on arrival and thus you need to obtain your visa before-hand. You can also obtain a multiple entry visa if you may wish to visit again soon anytime in the near future. You can approach the nearest China consulate to your city and follow the process. You will require the following documents to complete the process:

  • Valid passport up to 6 months from your visit
  • Visa application form
  • Passport size photos
  • Special permits, if necessary
  • Hotel/stay confirmation
  • Flight to and return confirmation
  • Fee of application

What is the currency of China and where can I get my money exchanged?

The currency of China is called the Renminbi or the Yuan and the currency code is CNY.

The currency exchange rate is 1 USD = 6.64 CNY = 65 INR. It is most convenient to exchange your currency at the airport itself, however, you can also exchange money in other places in China. All banks offer the same interest rates, and thus you need not worry about where to find the best exchange rate if you wish to exchange at banks. You could also exchange your money at the hotel, but here the commissions are higher than other places and thus is not required. Exchange counters and kiosks are propping up at different corners of the cities, it could be kept as your last option if you are out of cash and wish to have some in hand. It is advisable to keep all your exchange receipts, in case you wish to change the Chinese Yuan to other currencies after your trip.

What are the things to do in China?

China being one of the most populated countries needs to fit the taste of various kinds of people and interests. Some of the most popular things to do in China are:

  • Trek the great wall of China
  • Tour the forbidden city
  • Cycle the Xi’an Wall
  • Bamboo raft up the Li River
  • Cruise along the three Gorges
  • Enjoy the skyline from the Bund
  • Visit the Pandas at Chengdu
  • Trek up Yellow mountains or Zhanghiajie to enjoy great panoramic views
  • Learn Kung Fu at Shaolin Temple
  • Celebrate the Chinese new year at the spring festival if you happen to visit during the season

What is the local food of China? Which are the best places to taste this food?

Chinese food is popular all over the world and of course, the most authentic and original taste can only be tasted in the country itself. They basic staples consists of rice and noodles, and dumplings is a popular dish too. They have a variety of options amongst the Chinese food itself, mostly consisting of meat. Some of the best places to eat at while in China are:

  • Scena in Ritz Carlton, Shanghai
  • Yang’s fry dumplings, Shanghai
  • Choy’s seafood restaurant, Beijing
  • Mr. Shi’s dumplings, Beijing
  • Tin Lung Heen, Hong Kong
  • One Dim Sum, Hong Kong

What is the best public transport to commute around China?

Road transport in China is developing at a face pace and making commute very easy across the country. The various modes of transport that you can use to commute around China are:

  • Bus – cheaper option
  • Taxis
  • Bicycles – if you wish to explore on your own.
  • Subway – in more developed cities
  • Light trains – in more developed cities
  • Maglev trains – in more developed cities

Do I need to have any vaccinations before the trip to China?

Yes, certain basic vaccinations are recommended to be taken before your trip to China. Along with the routine vaccines, you should also take Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Polio and Typhoid.

What is the local language in China and which are the most commonly used greetings?

The local language of China is Chinese or Mandarin. Some of the commonly used greetings and sentences that maybe helpful for you are:

  • Hello – Ni Hao
  • Thank you - Xiexie
  • Good morning – Zaoshang hao
  • Good night- wan an
  • What is the price of this? – Zhe shi shenme jiage?
  • How far is the place? – Zhege difang you duo yuan?
  • How are you? – Ni Hao Ma?
  • I need help – Wo xuyao bangzhu
  • See you soon – zaijian

Which are the best shopping places in China and what are they famous for?

China is undoubtedly Asia’s shopping paradise. From the street shopping to luxurious mall shopping, fake as well as original brands, the place is friendly to wallets of all types. Some of the best shopping places in China and what they are famous for there are listed below:

  • Beijing – cloisonné, freshwater petals
  • Shanghai – silk carpets, qipaos
  • Tibet – thangka
  • Suzhou – Silk
  • Hangzhou – Longjing Tea
  • Guilin – scroll paintings
  • Xi’an – antique furniture, Tang dynasty hand painted china.

Which are the best islands to visit in China?

China’s islands have been low-key and are seldom mentioned in the places to visit when you go to China. These islands are few of the natural beauty sites that the country has to offer and the best ones amongst them are:

  • Xisha Island
  • Weizhou Island – artwork made by water and fire
  • Putuoshan Island – a Buddhist holy land on the sea
  • The Penghu Islands or Pescadores Islands
  • Dayushan Island – popular for hiking and camping
  • The Nanji Islands

How is the nightlife in China? Which are the best places to enjoy nightlife?

China’s nightlife is unique in its own way along with catching up with trends from the west. With Karaoke, Chinese opera, acrobatic shows, etc, China has distinguished its nightlife from other countries. This does not mean that the place is short of disco dance floors and parties to enjoy at. Some of the best places to enjoy nightlife in China are:

  • Sanlitun area – Beijing
  • Barbarossa Lounge – Shanghai
  • Bar Rouge – Shanghai
  • Bling – Shanghai
  • Alfa – Beijing
  • Bed tapas & bar – Beijing
  • Fountain and music show – Xi’an
  • KTV Karaoke – Xi’an
  • The bell tower – Xi’an

Which are some famous temples in China?

China could also be considered a good place to go on temple pilgrims given the numerous numbers of temples it hosts. Some of the famous temples of China are:

  • White horse temple
  • Lingyin temple
  • Famen temple
  • Jokhang
  • Shaolin monastery
  • Jade Buddha temple
  • Yonghe temple
  • Hanshan temple

How far is Shanghai from Beijing and what are the things I can do in Shanghai?

The distance between Shanghai to Beijing is almost 1207 km. The time taken to get there depends on the mode of transport you chose to travel in. While a car ride will take you around 12 hours, a train might take 14 hours. However, there are also express trains that can take you in as less as 5-6 hours. Shanghai has many places to see and things to do. If you plan on visiting Shangai, these are the things you shouldn’t miss:

  • The view from The Bund
  • The Disney world at Shanghai
  • Yu Garden
  • Nanjing Road for shopping
  • People's square
  • Jade Buddha Temple
  • Shanghai Ocean Aquarium
  • Longhua Temple

Which are the best museums to visit in China?

The best museums to visit in China are:

  • Shanghai science and technology – for science enthusiast
  • Shanghai Museum – modern museum with ancient relics
  • National Museum of China
  • Capital Museum – Beijing
  • China Art museum
  • China National film museum
  • Shaanxi history museum

Which are some best places for road trips in China?

Road trips in and around China have some interesting views to offer. The best places and routes for road trips in the country are:

  • Guoliang Village – through the Guoliang tunnel road
  • Xinduqiao to Danba – S313 highway
  • Urumqi to Kanas Lake Loop
  • Litang to Yading
  • Tingri to Mt Everest Base Camp
  • Ya’an to Xichaang highway – Yaxi expressway

Which is the best place for a desert safari in China?

The best place for desert safari in China is the Shapotou Tourist Zone. It is located in Zhongwei. It has various activities that you can try like sand skiing, camel riding, adventures in a 4WD, etc. This place is growing in popularity amongst tourist to have some fun and adventurous time during their visit to China.

How long does it take to trek along the Great Wall of China?

The Great Wall of China is 5500 miles long and it would take around 18 months if you wish to trek the entire route. However, there are various shorts treks that can be taken along the Great Wall that covers different unique points along the route. Some of those treks are:

  • Jiankou –restored mutianyu – 2 days
  • Jiankou – huanghuacheng – 2 days
  • Gubeikou to wild jinshanling – 2 days

Here are the best tips Thrillophilia has to offer for your trip to China:

  • Learn some basic phrases that will help you get around easily
  • Do not miss the authentic Chinese street food
  • Take your vaccinations before your trip
  • Do not purchase electronics if you are looking for the best quality
  • Carry a plug and power converter
  • Keep your belongings safe and protected at all times
  • China has high pollution, if you are prone to get sick, carry face masks with you.

China Reviews

review-img
Marut Gill
Reviewed: 08 Jul 2019
5.0/5
Hop On Hop Off Bus was a very convenient way which helped us to Hong Kong comfortably.
review-img
Vasudeva Marar
Reviewed: 08 Jul 2019
4.0/5
Straightforward to use. But finding the Airport Express from Central Hong Kong is a bit of a chore.

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