Planning a trip to China can feel overwhelming. It’s a vast and diverse country, but that also means there’s a lot to figure out: Where should you go? How long do you need? Will mobile payments be a problem?
This guide is here to make it all easier. With local insights and practical tips, we’ll walk you through the key steps from picking destinations to getting around, so you can plan with confidence and enjoy the journey ahead.
1. Choose Where to Go
With our knowledge of China and feedback from our clients, the following five destinations are recommended for first-timers. Each one brings something different: ancient culture, stunning landscapes, city life, or even a close-up with China’s beloved pandas.
1) Beijing — Explore China’s Imperial Past
If it’s your first time in China, Beijing is the ideal starting point, where ancient dynasties, iconic landmarks, and vibrant local life all come together.
The Great Wall and Forbidden City are must-sees. To make your visits a fresh twist, try visiting the Forbidden City in Hanfu. It’s photogenic and offers a deeper cultural feel.
For a new experience in the Great Wall, you could expect a drone-delivered experience (a fun blend of tradition and tech) at Badaling. Or head to Jinshanling for a sunset picnic on a quieter, more scenic stretch.
You could also get a feel for daily life with a guided hutong walk, where Beijing’s old neighborhoods still breathe.
If you travel with kids, spend a day at Universal Beijing Resort, or enjoy some fun and educational activities like tai chi in the park, calligraphy, and a local family visit in the hutongs.
Beijing is also where you can experience China’s futuristic lifestyle, from smart home demonstrations to a ride in an autonomous vehicle.
See more from our 11-Day China Family Tour.
2) Shanghai — China’s Window to the Future
Shanghai is where China looks ahead. It is a city of dazzling skylines, global flavors, and vibrant contrasts between the old and the new.
Hop on a ferry to cross the Huangpu River. You will see the historical architecture on the Bund as well as the modern skyscrapers opposite, giving you a distinctive contrast between modern life and the post-imperial past.
We have specially designed an in-depth Bund culture discovery walking tour for those who want to learn more interesting stories about the Bund and old Shanghai.
You will walk a route that seldom tourists will find by themselves, see the most original bricks, and hear some interesting stories that you’ll never find in history books.
To feel the city’s softer side, we recommend walking through the tree-lined streets of the French Concession, where Art Deco villas, boutique cafés, and local life blend seamlessly.
If your schedule allows, extend your tour to Hangzhou or Suzhou to see water towns and classical Chinese gardens.
3) Xi’an — Walk Through 2,000 Years of History
If you’re drawn to China’s ancient roots, Xi’an is unmissable. As the capital of 13 dynasties and the starting point of the Silk Road, it offers a deep dive into the foundations of Chinese civilization.
The Terracotta Warriors are the city’s most iconic highlight, but we can take your visit a step further. With access to a lesser-known museum near the site, you’ll get a rare close-up of the first batch of restored warriors.
Step into a real conservation lab, where under the guidance of professional restorers, you’ll work with authentic Qin-era fragments and try your hand at piecing together a mini terracotta warrior.
In the evening, don’t miss Great Tang All Day Mall. It is a dazzling boulevard lit by lanterns and full of performers, street artists, and music. It’s the perfect spot to experience Xi’an’s modern pulse wrapped in Tang Dynasty charm.
Xi’an is also a favorite for Hanfu photography lovers. The city’s many historic buildings and atmospheric streets make the perfect backdrop. We can help you dress up and capture it all, from palace walls to quiet temples.
4) Guilin — Cruise Through China’s Most Iconic Scenery
First-timers love Guilin for its beautiful landscapes and relaxing places to escape from the cities. It is a true masterpiece of classic rural China.
A Li River cruise is the best way to enjoy karst peaks, combined with the Li River.
Yangshuo and Longsheng, two counties next to the city of Guilin, offer most of Guilin’s top highlights.
Yangshuo is a place where children can put down their phones and iPads and still be well entertained… by cycling around the idyllic countryside, exploring an undeveloped karst cave, and even experiencing the life and work of a Chinese farmer.
Yangshuo also offers a natural, romantic atmosphere for couples. A romantic riverside candlelit dinner set in a mountain retreat garden could be a great way to celebrate your 20th, 30th, 40th, etc., anniversary. Contact us to design a special time for you.
If you are interested in minority culture, the Longji Rice Terraces in Longsheng are really a highlight, both for enjoying the magnificent tiered fields and for experiencing the world of the Zhuang and Yao minorities.
5) Chengdu — Get Close to Pandas
4. Experience Chinese Fortune Telling at Wong Tai Sin Temple
Located in Kowloon, Wong Tai Sin Temple is one of Hong Kong’s most popular temples, dedicated to numerous Chinese deities, including Wong Tai Sin himself. Every day, many Chinese people visit to pray for wealth, happiness and peace. One important ritual is “Kau Cim” (fortune sticks), where you silently ask a question, shake a bamboo cylinder containing sticks, and interpret the answer based on the number on the stick. The temple also has many Chinese fortune-telling stalls, some of which offer services in English. Fortune-tellers can “predict” your future and offer advice based on your birth date, palm lines, and facial features.
5. Experience Local Life by Riding the Ding Ding Tram or Star Ferry
The Ding Ding tram, known for its “Ding Ding” bell sound, and the Star Ferry, connecting Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, are traditional modes of transport that have been in operation for over a century. Unlike the fast-paced MTR, these slower-paced options allow you to enjoy Hong Kong’s cityscape and local life. Riding the Ding Ding tram through Hong Kong Island’s streets or taking a short Star Ferry ride across Victoria Harbour are meaningful and affordable experiences, with fares under one USD. For a more extensive harbor tour, the Star Ferry Water Tour costs around USD $22-26, depending on the time.
6. Relaxing Fishing Village Experience on Outlying Islands
Hong Kong’s outlying islands are hidden gems, perfect for nature lovers and those who enjoy the relaxed vibe of fishing villages. Popular islands include Cheung Chau, Lamma Island, and Peng Chau. You can rent a bicycle, swim at the beach, or enjoy a coffee while taking in the serene coastal views.
Lamma Island’s Lamma Fisherfolks Village offers various activities, such as fishing, salted fish making class, preserved kumquat making class, and workshops for making kites and mugs, making it an excellent destination for families with children.
7. Enjoy Hong Kong's Nightlife at Lan Kwai Fong or Sky Bars
Lan Kwai Fong, located in Central, is synonymous with Hong Kong’s nightlife. This area is densely packed with unique bars, nightclubs, and restaurants, making it a popular gathering spot for young people and city workers looking to unwind after work. Lan Kwai Fong also boasts several bars listed among Asia’s 50 Best Bars, such as COA, Penicillin, and Quinary. If you’re an enthusiast of alcoholic beverages, this is a must-visit.
Additionally, Hong Kong also has many fantastic sky bars, often located on the upper floors of hotels or skyscrapers, offering stunning views of the city’s nightscape. They are an excellent choice for those seeking a romantic atmosphere.
8. Try out the Local Snacks Near the Central-Mid-Levels Escalator
The Central-Mid-Levels Escalator is a landmark in Central, Hong Kong, connecting the Central Market and Tai Kwun. Beneath it are numerous snack shops that have been operating since the 1950s and ’60s. The most famous are Lan Fong Yuen, known for creating the Hong Kong-style beverage “Yuenyeung” (a mix of coffee and milk tea), and Tai Cheong Bakery, renowned for its egg tarts and Sata andagi. Additionally, some old-established wonton noodle shops are also worth trying.
9. Savor Global Cuisines, Including Michelin-Starred Restaurants
As an international city, Hong Kong attracts people from all over the world, bringing diverse flavors with them. The city offers a wide range of culinary options, from Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern to European delights. There are ample halal and vegetarian choices, catering to various religious and dietary preferences. Hong Kong is also renowned for its Michelin-starred restaurants, from affordable Bib Gourmand recommendations to high-end dining experiences. Food enthusiasts can explore and indulge in the city’s rich culinary scene.
10. Explore Hong Kong's Diverse Museums
Hong Kong is home to numerous exquisite museums. The Hong Kong Museum of Art, located by Victoria Harbour, offers exhibits related to Chinese calligraphy, painting, and ceramics. Nearby, the small yet fascinating Hong Kong Space Museum is perfect for families, offering insights into astronomy and geography. The Hong Kong Palace Museum in the West Kowloon Cultural District displays artifacts from Beijing’s Palace Museum, providing an engaging look into ancient Chinese royal life and customs. The adjacent M+ Museum showcases modern art. Other notable museums include the Hong Kong Science Museum and the Hong Kong Museum of History, both worth exploring.
11. Stroll or Cycle in the West Kowloon Cultural District
The West Kowloon Cultural District is a newly developed cultural hub in Hong Kong. Besides the Hong Kong Palace Museum and the M+ Museum, it features the Art Park, a great spot for seaside walks, cycling, and watching the sunset. The park offers bike rentals and is an excellent place to picnic on the lawns or relax at nearby restaurants and cafes, enjoying views of Victoria Harbour and the bustling Hong Kong Island.
12. Visit Hong Kong Disneyland or Ocean Park
Hong Kong caters to visitors of all ages, including children. The city has two very popular theme parks. One is the world-renowned Hong Kong Disneyland, a fairy tale paradise for both kids and adults. The other is Hong Kong Ocean Park, a combined zoo and amusement park where you can see pandas as well as marine animals like penguins and seals.
13. Shop at the Various Malls
Almost every district in Hong Kong has shopping centers, especially the famous shopping areas like Tsim Sha Tsui and Causeway Bay. For those who enjoy shopping, Hong Kong is a true shopping paradise. You can find a wide range of international and local brands, from clothing and accessories to electronics.
14. Hiking to Enjoy Hong Kong's Natural Scenery
While Hong Kong is often seen as a bustling modern city, it’s actually a place where mountains cover most of the land-around three-quarters of the territory is green. This makes Hong Kong home to some excellent hiking trails. For example, you can hike to the city’s highest peak, Tai Mo Shan, or explore Dragon’s Back, which Lonely Planet has named the best hiking trail in Hong Kong. For outdoor enthusiasts and those wanting to see a different side of the city, hiking is a fantastic option.
15. Watch Local Theater - Cantonese Opera
Despite over a century of Western colonial influence, Hong Kong remains a key representative of Cantonese culture, with Cantonese opera being one of its cultural icons. This traditional art form, sung in Cantonese, is a window into the region’s rich heritage. In Hong Kong, you can experience Cantonese opera performances at the Xiqu Centre, where tea and snacks are also served. Watching Cantonese opera is an excellent way to deepen your understanding of local culture.
