China Travel Guide 2026: Top Cities, Places to Visit & Itineraries | Trip.com

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Recommended length of visit

10-15 days

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CNY

Must-try food in China

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Recent events and experiences in China

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Northeast China 11-Day Trip: Volcanic Springs and Northern Frontier Days

11 Days
  1. DAY01Liaoning Provincial MuseumLiaoning Science and Technology Museum
  2. DAY02Shenyang MuseumShenyang Imperial PalaceZhongjie Street
  3. DAY03Marshal Zhang's Mansion MuseumShenyang Forest Zoological Garden
  4. DAY04Qinghe Peninsula Spa&Hot Spring
  5. DAY05Changbai Mountain
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Hubei & Chongqing Border Region 7-Day Trip: Epic gorges and sacred mountain calm

7 Days
  1. DAY01Enshi Grand Canyon
  2. DAY02Enshi Tusi CityEnshi Tujia Daughter City
  3. DAY03Kuizhou Ancient CityWhite Emperor City Qutang Gorge Scenic Spot
  4. DAY04Peak of Three Gorges
  5. DAY05Taichi Lake
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Beijing & Shanghai 10-Day Trip: Imperial landmarks, stylish city days

10 Days
  1. DAY01Tiananmen SquareNational Museum of ChinaQianmen Street
  2. DAY02The Palace MuseumJingshan Park
  3. DAY03Badaling Great Wall
  4. DAY04Universal Beijing Resort
  5. DAY05Temple of Heaven
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Traveler photos and experiences

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AI generatedAI summary

China travel guide and discussion

City glow and skyline views: Many travelers highlight Shanghai’s Bund, Guangzhou Tower’s riverfront nightscape, and Chongqing’s Hongyadong at dusk as the signature urban experiences for lights, photos, and high‑end vibes. Time it for sunset‑to‑night and favor river walks or rooftops; some note that “old streets” can be recent recreations. Bucket‑list nature: Zhangjiajie’s pillar forests, Jiuzhaigou’s mirror‑blue lakes and waterfalls, and Wulong’s Three Natural Bridges are repeatedly called out as must‑see landscapes. Despite crowds, visitors report orderly shuttle lines and accessible paths in Jiuzhaigou, while cableways/elevators make classic Zhangjiajie loops manageable. Timing and crowds: Many advise entering headline sites at opening and avoiding Mid‑Autumn and National Day Golden Week, with dated tickets and passport checks now common at museums and parks. Seasonal events like the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival are weather‑dependent—some areas may close early in warm spells—so verify dates before you go. Practical must‑knows: Mainland travel runs on QR e‑payments and mobile apps—set up a local e‑wallet and data access before arrival, carry your passport, and keep offline screenshots of bookings and addresses. Big rail hubs operate like airports with multiple stations and security checks, so confirm station names, arrive early, and use licensed or in‑app rides instead of hailing random cabs at terminals.

Based on real traveler posts
Emei Mountain Golden Summit — traveler post in China

Emei Mountain Golden Summit

I can't help but recommend the Golden Summit of Mount Emei! When you come to Chengdu, how can you miss this legendary fairy photo spot? 🔥 Seeing the golden top surrounded by a sea of ​​clouds, the whole screen is both spiritual and super fantastic ~ Take out your phone and snap it, it turns into a blockbuster in seconds. It really feels like a fairy spirit! Golden Peak is actually the top of Mount Emei. In addition to overlooking the invincible sea of ​​clouds, there is also a super beautiful Golden Peak Temple. The Buddha statues and rooftops reflect the sunlight with great energy, every step is like walking in a movie scene! ✨Address: Golden Peak, Emeishan Scenic Area, Emeishan City, Leshan City, Sichuan Province ⏰Opening Hours: Daily 7:00am to 7:00pm If you want to experience the most beautiful scenery, you can go up the mountain early. Encountering a sunny day and a sea of ​​clouds is truly unforgettable! Remember to bring a better camera, be sure to shoot a round ~ #Sea of ​​Clouds #Golden Peak #Mount Emei #Chengdu Must Visit

"Visions of Elegant Republic-Era Living at Meiling Palace." — traveler post in China

"Visions of Elegant Republic-Era Living at Meiling Palace."

An elegant building nestled in the shade of parasol trees, turning history into a scenic landscape. When you visit Nanjing, Meiling Palace is a place that effortlessly invites you to slow down. Perched on a hillside surrounded by a forest of parasol trees, the entire setting is serene and graceful. The mere stroll toward the main building is steeped in atmosphere. Sunlight filters through the canopy, dancing on the paths and the architecture, evoking a profoundly gentle sense of history. 🏛️ The architecture itself is truly distinctive. Meiling Palace features a brilliant fusion of Chinese and Western design. Its exterior is classic and dignified, while its intricate details reveal European architectural influences. From any angle, you can appreciate the sophistication and depth of the era's architectural aesthetics. Particularly from a bird's-eye view, the main building, lush greenery, and winding roads form a striking symmetrical composition that is incredibly photogenic and cinematic. 🌿 What's most enchanting here isn't just the building, but the overall vibe. Far from the hustle and bustle of crowded tourist traps, Meiling Palace feels like a sanctuary quietly preserved by time. Wandering through its halls, it's easy to picture the lifestyles and historical tales of the past. Because of this, it feels less like a typical tourist attraction and more like a "chapter of history waiting to be slowly read." ✨ This is exactly where Nanjing's charm lies: Every landmark has its own unique aura—the solemnity of the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, the ancient serenity of Jiming Temple, and Meiling Palace as the ultimate symbol of elegance and tranquility. 📸 Photography Highlights 📍 The parasol-tree-lined trail 📍 The symmetrical composition of the building's facade 📍 The interplay of light and shadow under the trees 📍 Close-ups of architectural details and window views

The Most Tranquil Chinese Architecture Under the Night Sky. — traveler post in China

The Most Tranquil Chinese Architecture Under the Night Sky.

Located in the Xiangzhou District of Zhuhai, the New Yuan Ming Palace is a magnificent cultural landmark that perfectly blends classical garden design with royal grandeur. Modeled after the original Old Summer Palace in Beijing, it exudes a profound sense of traditional Chinese aesthetics. The reflections on the lake and the antique, enchanting night views of the Wanfu Pavilion are particularly mesmerizing. With its ornate pavilions and towers beautifully blending with the shimmering water, the softly swaying lights after dusk make this an unmissable cultural gem in Zhuhai. Recommended Tour Route We recommend arriving around dusk. Take a leisurely stroll along the main path through the grand main entrance into the core area. Slow down by the lake to admire the serene reflection of Chinese-style pavilions on the calm water, and soak in the poetic ambiance of the classical gardens. Continue your journey to the highlight of the New Yuan Ming Palace: the Wanfu Pavilion. Not only is the architecture exquisite, but the evening illumination also adds a veil of mystery to the structure. When taking photos, be sure to find a spot by the lakeside to capture the stunning reflections for truly spectacular shots. Must-Do Activities & Photo Spots 1. Wanfu Pavilion Night View: An iconic, must-visit structure in the park. It looks exceptionally elegant under the night lights, making it the top spot for evening photography. 2. Lakeside Scenery: Whether you are admiring the panoramic lake views from afar or looking closely at the lotus flowers, the fusion of the natural landscape and ancient architecture is perfect for a relaxing walk and capturing dreamy nightscapes. 3. Ancient-Style Performances (if available): If the timing is right, you might catch traditional royal dances or special cultural performances, adding extra fun to your visit. Practical Tips 1. Try to enter the park right at dusk to catch the magical transition from sunset to nightfall—highly recommended for photography and night view enthusiasts. 2. Not all areas are fully illuminated at night, so it's best to check the park's lighting schedule in advance. 3. Some indoor pavilions may be closed in the evening, so focus your nighttime tour on the outdoor areas and illuminated sections. 4. The park is quite large, so wear comfortable walking shoes. It can get chilly by the lake at night, so remember to bring a light jacket. 5. The entrance fee is 38 RMB, and standard operating hours end at 17:30, though evening sessions are sometimes extended during holidays. Precautions 1. The waterside areas can be quite secluded at night; walking in small groups is recommended for safety. 2. Outdoor wooden bridges and stone pathways may be slippery, so walk with caution. 3. Prioritize your safety and that of others when taking photos—avoid leaning on railings or overreaching. 4. Some facilities may lack staff supervision at night. In case of an emergency, contact the on-site service desk immediately. With its elegant nightscapes, majestic ancient architecture, and poetic lake views, the New Yuan Ming Palace is well worth a visit for couples, families, and photography lovers alike. The evening viewing experience is especially recommended to discover a different, culturally rich side of Zhuhai.

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Zhuhai Weekend Getaway Hotel Experience 🛁 Explore Macau and Zhuhai via Gongbei Port 🥳 — traveler post in China

Zhuhai Weekend Getaway Hotel Experience 🛁 Explore Macau and Zhuhai via Gongbei Port 🥳

After a year, I finally stepped into the arms of Zhuhai with my husband again! 🎉This time I specially booked a hotel super close to Archway Port, Macau and Zhuhai one day shuttle is not difficult, super convenient! 😇 The location is really unbeatable, just across the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, call a Didi get off in 15 minutes, no need to work hard at all. It takes only 10 minutes to cross Macau at the Archway Port, which saves money and time. The whole journey is super smooth💸! We chose the deluxe large room ~ the high floor 18th floor is very spacious! The toilet is big and spacious, with dry and wet separation, and a bathtub🛁! The sliding doors on both sides of the bathroom pay great attention to privacy, not oppressive and oppressive. It's so beautiful that you don't want to leave 👏🏻! The only little disappointment is that the room type says there is a sea view, but looking out may not see anything 💔 Next time I hope to upgrade to a real sea view ~ What is the most explosive? The facilities are super complete! There is a swimming pool 🏊♀️, gym 💪 and its own massage parlor ~ If the weather is bad, actually hea in the hotel is enough chill! We booked a foot bath massage, the waiter specifically WhatsApp notified us immediately to the room, super attentive ~ cinema foot therapy mode, while watching a movie while relieving stress, also includes meals + drinks + fruit, the value for money is really great 🔝! The surrounding area is not difficult to walk around, the hotel is near the city balcony, Incense Bay Beach, Zhuhai Fisher Girl, different restaurants and shopping mall, you can replenish your energy⚡️! Playing the weekend flash two days and one night is really perfect. 🏨 Marriott Hotel, New Sun King, Zhuhai (Couple Road Incense Burner Bay Beach Branch) Address: Building 9, No. 177, Jingshan Road, Jida, Xiangzhou District, Zhuhai City The location is very convenient, walk to the seaside / Incense Bay beach / city balcony / Zhuhai fisherman's girl is very fast, lived there can not go back 😉; nearby shopping malls and restaurants, looking for food shopping just afraid of weak legs! Tips🌟: Enjoy Zhuhai and Macau, recommended to live directly in Zhuhai near the port, cross the border into Macau, take the casino free shuttle straight to the city, save time and budget, CP value is very high🥳! #travel2026 #ZhuhaiItinerary #WeekendLightTravel

McMandyMcMandy
  — traveler post in China

If you're planning a stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront anytime soon, you absolutely have to check out the free "Garden Life" exhibition at the Hong Kong Museum of Art! As a major cultural landmark right next to the iconic Victoria Harbour, it offers stunning daytime views. Whether you're an art enthusiast or just looking for the perfect Instagram shot, you'll fall in love with this spot. Believe it or not, this exhibition features collections from the Palace Museum, the Palace of Versailles, and the Art Institute of Chicago—plus two authentic Monet masterpieces! It's the ultimate destination for a laid-back weekend or a trendy artsy outing. You get to admire world-class art without even leaving Hong Kong! 🌟 Top Itinerary Highlights The entire museum offers a super relaxing vibe. I highly recommend heading up to the viewing deck first to take in the breathtaking Victoria Harbour before stepping into the main exhibition halls. The "Garden Life" exhibition focuses on the fusion of Eastern and Western cultures, showcasing a gorgeous and internationally curated selection of pieces. If you want to chill out, there's a dining area inside where you can grab a bite while enjoying the ocean view—it's especially fantastic on a sunny day! You can easily snap 10/10 photos capturing the perfect crossover of nature, floral aesthetics, and humanistic art. 🎨 Must-See Spots 1. Victoria Harbour Viewing Deck Head straight up to the viewing deck from the G/F of the museum to overlook Victoria Harbour. The panoramic view is incredible! Under the daytime sun, the water literally sparkles. Any picture you take here is guaranteed to be an instant IG hit! 2. "Garden Life" Special Exhibition (Free Admission) With the theme of "Gardening x Lifestyle x World Masterpieces," this exhibition showcases collections from three major global museums. Alongside elegant artifacts from Chinese and French imperial palaces, two authentic Monet paintings completely steal the show. If you're a fan of Impressionism, you definitely need to carve out some extra time to admire them. The exhibition halls also feature interactive zones and exquisite floral installations. It’s the perfect spot to take your time, relax, and enjoy a quiet, leisurely moment. 3. In-House Art & Design Bookstore / Dining When you need a break from exploring, I recommend dropping by the bookstore on the G/F to pick up an art book as a souvenir. There's also a cozy dining area nearby with plenty of coffee and dessert options. Sitting there, soaking in the view and the sunshine, truly makes you feel like you're savoring an "urban oasis." 📌 Handy Tips · The "Garden Life" exhibition is free, with staff on-site to guide you. Just remember to make a reservation or arrive early to beat the crowds! · The AC inside the museum is pretty strong, so bring a light jacket. If you're planning to take photos outside, don't forget a sun hat and some water—the summer sun can be intense! · The authentic Monet exhibition area is super popular. Try to hit it up right when the museum opens to avoid long lines. · Aside from the main exhibition, take a stroll through the outdoor gardens and sculpture area to get some fresh air by the harbour. 💡 Address & Opening Hours Hong Kong Museum of Art G/F, 10 Salisbury Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong Opening Hours: Mon to Wed, Fri: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sat & Sun: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Closed on Thursdays, so plan accordingly!) Whether it's an art pilgrimage, a waterfront stroll, or just sneaking away for a half-day of relaxation after work, this is the perfect spot. This artsy getaway guarantees you’ll leave feeling totally fulfilled! 🤍

🇨🇳Guest Dining Experience🍽️ ZhaoQing Travel in China  — traveler post in China

🇨🇳Guest Dining Experience🍽️ ZhaoQing Travel in China

When I was in ZhaoQing, China, I was brought around as a Guest to various places, so I don’t actually have the exact details of every location or even the names of all the dishes I ate. . But here’s what I can still piece together 😅 (more details in the images if you want to peek). . What stood out to me is how, in Zhaoqing’s business & relationship culture, at the back of many offices or restaurants often have a hidden guest area or private room behind the main space — used specifically for hosting visitors & guest. I didn’t dine in the public seating area, but in these more private entertaining spaces instead. Almost every place like this comes with a traditional Chinese tea set too. . Because it was quite a formal setting, photography wasn’t really encouraged, so I don’t have much visual documentation beyond the food dishes memories. . So this is really just a little food diary from the trip — mainly for keepsake purposes. The dishes shown may also not be part of their regular restaurant menu, but they were all genuinely delicious. . #Zhaoqing #ChinaTravel #FoodMemories #TravelDiary #Guestdiningexperience

Great news for food lovers at the Olympic Sports Center! Ichizu's new directly-operated store in Hangzhou is about to open! — traveler post in China

Great news for food lovers at the Olympic Sports Center! Ichizu's new directly-operated store in Hangzhou is about to open!

Big news for foodies in Xiaoshan! Ichizu Sukiyaki's 5th directly-operated store in Hangzhou is opening soon! The store is located on L6 of Olympic Impression City, making travel super convenient ❤️ Consistently ranked as a must-eat in Shanghai, the buffet offers solid, high-quality options. Unlimited M-grade Wagyu beef, and a variety of fresh, succulent seafood. Seasonal durian and mangosteen are easily available, paired with an unlimited selection of snacks, desserts, and drinks. Perfect for both group dinners and solo meals ✨ Get ready to check in and celebrate the grand opening 🍻 Family, don’t miss out!

Coffee lovers, come on in! New store opening with triple promotions!
 — traveler post in China

Coffee lovers, come on in! New store opening with triple promotions!

Feeling the heavy work grind? You need an extra strong coffee to counteract it! Nespresso has opened at Panlong Tiandi! 🎉 Dozens of capsule coffee flavors to choose from 🌈 Concentrating a whole summer's worth of happiness ❣️ Full of premium texture 🤍Vertuo Pop🖤 3-second preheating, 1-second extraction, super efficient! 🧉Iced Coconut Vanilla Flavored Iced Coffee🧉 Trade a cup of chill time for a vacation vibe 🏝️ Take a sip, and it's as if you can hear the sound of waves by your ear 🌊 Perfect whether you add ice cubes or iced milk. Grapefruit Vanilla Flavor 🍋 The fruity aroma dances on your tongue. Also available: Oat Milk 🥛 and Athens Intense Iced Coffee 🧊 It's a classy start for 8 AM folks and a restart for 3 PM afternoons. Currently, there's also a Summer Carnival and new store promotions 🧧 40th anniversary limited edition merchandise 🎁 Bring HO luck home!

What people are saying about China

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Shanghai Disney Resort

คิดไม่ผิดเลยที่ตัดสินใจซื้อบัตรเข้าพาร์คและ early entry กับทาง trip.com เพราะคอนเฟิร์มตั๋วไวมากใช้งานง่าย และการมี early entry ทำให้ประหยัดเวลาไป 90% เพราะพาร์คเปิดให้เข้าก่อนเกือบ ชั่วโมงครึ่ง ตามเก็บเครื่องเล่นสำคัญๆ ได้หมดภายใน 10 โมงเช้า มันเริ่ด ดีสุด แนะนำมากๆๆค่ะ

Anonymous userAnonymous user

The Bund

Shanghai After Dark — The Bund Never Sleeps ✨“Where the river reflects a thousand city lights and the future rises above a timeless waterfront. The Bund is more than a view — it’s Shanghai at its most magical, where elegance, ambition, and endless dreams meet.” 🌃❤

Lo1aaaLo1aaa

Universal Beijing Resort

We had an amazing time at Universal Beijing Resort as a family! The park was incredibly exciting for the children, with so many fun rides, attractions, and amazing themed areas to explore. Everything was well organized, and the instructions were clear and easy to understand, making it easy to get around and enjoy the experience.We booked our tickets through Trip.com, and the process was smooth and convenient. The whole family had a wonderful and memorable day. Highly recommended for families visiting Beijing, especially those traveling with children!

Munx zayaMunx zaya

Badaling Great Wall

Five-star review! Thank you, Director Li, for your dedication, patience, and thorough explanations. We were originally scheduled to board at 8:00 AM from Lao She Teahouse near Qianmen, but considering it was too early, the subway transfer would be necessary, and the walking would take time, I considered getting a refund. Director Li learned that I was taking Metro Line 8 from Muxiyuan and directed me to the Beitucheng station, allowing us to meet at 8:50 AM. Following Director Li's directions, I boarded the bus at Beitucheng. Today's Great Wall visit went very smoothly and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you, Director Li!

M98***63M98***63

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

It is a popular destination. We went in the morning - there’s an orderly queue to get into the park, and some areas (such as new born panda area) also has a queue. Overall, it is still worthwhile to visit.

kiwixpandakiwixpanda

Dujiangyan Scenic Area

A good full day to spend at Dujiangyan, get to see the giant selfie panda along the way. There's also the ancient city to walk about in the area. A rather pleasant experience.

E35***60E35***60

Hong Kong Disneyland

Hong Kong Disneyland was pure magic! 🏰✨ Amazing attractions, so much fun, and a must-visit for Disney lovers! Booking through Trip.com was quick, easy, and hassle-free. Highly recommend! 🎟️💕

Mandy.TonerMandy.Toner

The Peak Tram

Everything worked really smoothly. I saved the documents provided by trip.com and used the QR code to scan right at the gate and went directly onto the tram. The ride was very smooth and the operators were very efficient at getting passengers on and off the tram. At the top there’s a nice scenic loop trail that’s roughly 2800 m around, I didn’t do the whole thing but it is a nice walk if you have the time. The visitor area is fairly small, but it is the top of the mountain food and beverages were nice and reasonably priced if you feel like paying for the extra viewing platform, I’m sure it’s nice but I don’t think it’s quite worth the money with all the other areas around that are accessible. 

Aaron144Aaron144

Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum

The Terracota Army is such a unique site in China, it is definitely worth a visit even though it is overcrowded during all months of the year. Make sure to take a guide after entering, they are official site guides and it cost us 300RMB for the 5 of us. Our guide was amazing, and let us know all about the history of the place and current works being done by archaeologists.

Anonymous userAnonymous user

Shaanxi History Museum

The tour was led by Ms. June. The three-hour session was packed with valuable information, yet I didn't feel tired at all. Ms. June effortlessly explained the background and historical context of the artifacts, making the complex Zhou, Qin, Han, and Tang dynasties feel like vivid stories. Her pacing was excellent; she never skimmed over important points or rushed through parts quickly enough. She even thoughtfully reserved space for everyone to take photos. I highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting the Shaanxi History Museum; a visit with Ms. June will definitely be worthwhile.

ZyanerrZyanerr

China FAQ

How many days should I spend in China?

Based on Trip.com user data, Recommended sightseeing time: 10–15 day(s), allowing you to cover the main attractions while enjoying shopping, dining, and other experiences.

What currency is used in China?

The standard currency in China is CNY

How do I exchange currency in China?

Current exchange rate approx.: KRW ≈0.005CNY (actual exchange rates depend on the bank). Currency exchange tips:
1. Exchange currency at your local bank before departure, as rates are usually better than at the destination.
2. You can also withdraw cash from local ATMs.
3. Avoid exchanging currency at airports or hotels, as they offer the worst rates.