Pudong skyscrapers across the Huangpu River at dusk

The China you'll
actually meet.

Where to go, when to visit, and how to get around.

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Pudong, Shanghai

Pudong’s skyline at dusk, seen across the Huangpu River.

Where to go

All destinations

Crowds walk beneath illuminated buildings and signs on East Nanjing Road.

Shanghai

Evening crowds on East Nanjing Road, red roofs in the old city and towers across the Huangpu.

Hangzhou

Watch boats on West Lake, then follow the hills into Longjing tea country.

Xi’an

City walls and night markets, with the Terracotta Army east of town.

Chongqing

Bridges, trains and streets stack above two rivers.

A masked Sichuan opera performer blows a bright flame above the stage

Chengdu

Giant pandas, teahouses under the trees and fire on the opera stage.

Red lanterns and covered boats line Shantang Canal beneath an arched stone bridge.

Suzhou

White walls, narrow canals and gardens designed as small landscapes.

The Forbidden City’s red corner tower and willow trees reflect in the moat in warm evening light.

Beijing

Imperial gardens, palace roofs and a wall that follows the mountains.

Green-topped sandstone pillars rise through layers of pale mist.

Zhangjiajie

Sandstone pillars rise out of forest and cloud in Wulingyuan.

Golden trees surround turquoise water with submerged trunks visible at Five Flower Lake.

Jiuzhaigou

Clear lakes and waterfalls sit in a forested mountain valley.

First Time in China

Phone setup, payments, trains, and your first 48 hours.

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When to go

Season guide

JAN — MAR
Ice & blossom
APR — JUN
The good window
JUL — SEP
High country
OCT — DEC
Autumn & desert

The Thursday note

One useful tip for travelling in China, every Thursday.

The China you'll actually meet.