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A-Z Guide for Independent Travel in China

23/09/2024
A-Z Guide for Independent Travel in China

China is a vast and diverse destination, attracting millions of tourists each year. Traveling independently in China not only allows you to explore the unique beauty of this country but also offers rich cultural experiences. However, due to its complex transportation system and local customs, careful preparation is essential. Below are some tips for self-guided travel in China to ensure a smooth and memorable journey.

  1. Best Time to Visit

With its large area and diverse climate, each location in China has different weather characteristics. Every season in China has its own charm waiting for you to discover.

  • From March to May: The warm spring weather offers countless beautiful sights and a chance to participate in various festivals. This is the best time to visit places like Kunming, Hangzhou, and Fenghuang Ancient Town.

Phượng Hoàng cổ trấn hơn 1.300 năm tuổi có gì mà người Việt rần rần check-in? - Ảnh 1.

Fenghuang Ancient Town

  • From June to August: Summer in China can be extremely hot in some areas, but places like Zhangjiajie, Beijing, the Tibetan Plateau, Northwest China, and Mongolia have cooler climates, making them ideal for visits.

Thành phố Trương Gia Giới - Nơi kỳ quan thế giới hội tụ

Zhangjiajie – The filming location of the blockbuster film Avatar

  • From September to November: This is the ideal time for travel in China due to the pleasant weather. You can visit the Badaling National Park in Beijing or Jiuzhaigou in Sichuan. During this period, you may also experience the traditional Mid-Autumn Festival, with streets adorned with glowing lanterns.

tet trung thu trung quoc

The Lantern Festival of Wishes, celebrated by the Chinese people during the annual Mid-Autumn Festival

  • From December to February: Winter in China is quite harsh, resulting in fewer tourists. However, prices for flights, hotels, and services tend to decrease. If you enjoy cold weather, you can go skiing or attend the Ice and Snow Festival in Harbin. Alternatively, you can visit Hainan Island or the tropical rainforest in Yunnan, where the winter is relatively mild.

Hàng triệu du khách đổ về lễ hội băng đăng lớn nhất thế giới

The magnificent winter scenery of the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival

2. Budget Planning

The cost of independent travel in China depends on the duration, itinerary, and quality of services you choose. The average cost for a 7-day, 6-night trip to China is about 17 million VND per person, covering visa fees, transportation, accommodation, sightseeing, and food expenses.

3. Visa and Necessary Documents

Traveling to China requires a visa. The visa application process can take some time, so it’s best to apply early. Prepare the necessary documents such as a passport valid for at least 6 months, passport-sized photos, round-trip flight bookings, and hotel reservations. If you plan to visit multiple cities, organize a detailed itinerary to facilitate the visa process.

4. Language – Communication in China

One of the biggest challenges of traveling independently in China is the language barrier. English is not widely spoken, especially in rural areas or smaller towns. To overcome this, you should learn some basic Chinese phrases for asking directions, ordering food, or purchasing tickets. Additionally, apps like Google Translate or Pleco can be useful in emergency situations.

Quảng Châu là một trong những thành phố lớn nhất tại miền Nam của Trung Quốc, với dân số 14,5 triệu người. Quảng Châu có GDP đạt 297 tỉ USD, xếp thứ 4 trong số các thành phố của Trung Quốc. Ảnh: CNN.

5. Transportation: Public Transport and How to Use

China is famous for its modern public transportation system, especially high-speed trains and subways in large cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. You can easily travel from one city to another in just a few hours via high-speed trains. Be sure to book train tickets in advance through websites like Trip.com or 12306 China Railway. When purchasing tickets, remember to bring your passport, as it is required for train travel in China. Ride-hailing apps like Didi are also convenient for getting around within cities.

6. Currency and Payment

Cash is still widely used in China, but electronic payment methods like WeChat Pay and Alipay are becoming more popular.

For tourists, using WeChat Pay and Alipay can be tricky due to the requirement of a Chinese bank account, but some services now support foreign accounts. It’s advisable to carry cash (Chinese Yuan – RMB) for places that don’t accept card payments.

ATMs that accept international cards are available in major cities, but check for currency conversion fees before withdrawing money.

Gã khổng lồ thanh toán Trung Quốc quyết tâm mở rộng thần tốc với dịch vụ  Alipay+ - Nhịp sống kinh tế Việt Nam & Thế giới

7. Cuisine and Cultural Experiences

China is renowned for its diverse cuisine from North to South, with each region offering its own specialties. You can try dishes like Peking Duck, Sichuan hotpot, Cantonese dimsum, or Lanzhou pulled noodles. To ensure food safety, choose reputable restaurants or local chains. Be cautious when trying street food, paying attention to the source of ingredients and preparation methods.

If you have specific dietary requirements (such as vegetarian or non-spicy), prepare some Chinese phrases to explain your needs to restaurant staff.

Văn hóa ẩm thực Trung Hoa theo từng vùng miền

The diverse cuisine from North to South in the populous nation of China

8. Internet and Communication

Purchasing a travel SIM or renting a portable Wi-Fi device is essential to stay connected and access information throughout your trip. China has strict internet regulations, blocking access to many international websites like Google, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. However, with a Way2go Travel SIM, visitors can use these apps without needing a VPN to bypass restrictions.

Check out Way2go’s China Travel SIM & eSIM here.

Có thể là hình ảnh về 3 người và văn bản

Way2go China Travel SIM – Photos sent by customers to the fanpage

9. Respect Local Culture and Customs

China has a long-standing culture with many traditional customs and etiquette rules. When traveling independently, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local etiquette in the areas you’ll visit to avoid any cultural missteps. For instance, when visiting temples or religious sites, dress modestly and respect the sacred space.

Bargaining is part of the shopping experience in China, especially in markets. However, always remain polite and avoid excessive haggling to prevent offending the seller.

Ẩm thực đường phố Trung Quốc

10. Itinerary and Highlight Destinations

China is a vast country, so planning a specific itinerary is crucial. Prioritize iconic destinations such as Beijing (to visit the Great Wall and the Forbidden City), Shanghai (to explore The Bund and the Oriental Pearl Tower), Xi’an (home to the Terracotta Army), and Zhangjiajie (the inspiration for the movie Avatar). For nature lovers, explore scenic spots like West Lake in Hangzhou, Mount Huangshan, or the Li River in Guilin.

Khám phá Tây Hồ Hàng Châu - vẻ đẹp nàng Tây Thi quyến rũ

West Lake (Hangzhou) - a famous destination known for its delicate and serene beauty, resembling a watercolor painting

Don’t forget to spend time exploring ancient towns or villages to experience the serene beauty and traditional culture of China. With a well-organized plan, you’ll be able to enjoy the diversity of both modern cities and ancient landscapes without missing a thing.

Có thể là hình ảnh về văn bản

The ancient town of Tongli (Suzhou) is known as the "Venice of the East" with its dense network of canals.

11. Health and Travel Insurance Preparation

Before traveling to China, check if any vaccinations are required, such as for hepatitis, malaria, or influenza. Bring a personal medical kit with basic medications like fever reducers, digestive aids, and any prescription drugs you may need. Additionally, consider purchasing international travel insurance to cover potential health risks or lost luggage during your trip.

Conclusion

Independent travel in China is a challenging but incredibly rewarding journey. With thorough preparation—from visas and language to itinerary planning and understanding local culture—you’ll have a memorable and fulfilling trip. Let your journey inspire future adventures, as each visit to China brings entirely new experiences.

way2go.vn wishes you a safe and fulfilling journey!


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