First Time in China? These Destinations Are Perfect for You!
· Option 1
Jiangsu-Zhejiang-Shanghai Area – Where Tradition Meets Modernity
The Jiangsu-Zhejiang-Shanghai area is located along China’s eastern coast and is one of the most economically developed and internationalized regions in the country. It’s a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, where you’ll find everything from skyscrapers to classical Chinese gardens. What’s more, these cities are close to each other, with high-speed trains connecting them in just 1-2 hours, making it super convenient to explore multiple cities in one trip.
Shanghai: The Glamour of an International Metropolis
Shanghai is one of China’s most international cities, and it might just have the highest English proficiency per capita in the country. No matter where you’re from, you’ll find something familiar here. Shanghai boasts a cityscape that rivals New York or Tokyo, with the iconic Bund’s historic buildings facing off against the futuristic skyline of Lujiazui. The Bund at night is a must-see—it’s absolutely breathtaking.
If you’re interested in traditional Chinese culture, head to Chenghuang Temple (City God Temple) and Yu Garden, where you’ll find beautiful classical gardens and authentic Shanghai snacks. Plus, Shanghai’s food scene is incredibly diverse, offering everything from international cuisine to local Shanghainese dishes. For first-time visitors, Shanghai is the perfect blend of Chinese culture and familiar comforts.
And let’s not forget—Shanghai is one of China’s most important international aviation hubs, with flights connecting to cities all over the world.
Hangzhou: The Poetic Beauty of Paradise on Earth
Marco Polo once called Hangzhou "the most beautiful and luxurious city in the world." The heart of Hangzhou is West Lake, a place that has been carefully cultivated for over 1,000 years and is the epitome of Chinese aesthetic beauty. Famous poets like Su Shi and Bai Juyi have written timeless verses about its beauty. Strolling around West Lake, you’ll feel a sense of poetic tranquility.
But Hangzhou isn’t just about history—it’s also a hub of technological innovation. Tech giants like Alibaba and DeepSeek were born here, and the city is known for its smart, digital infrastructure. From mobile payments to efficient public transportation, you’ll experience the modern side of China in Hangzhou.
Suzhou: Classical Gardens and Leisurely Living
There’s a saying in China: "In heaven, there is paradise; on earth, there are Suzhou and Hangzhou." Suzhou is famous for its classical gardens, which are like the beautiful estates of England—elegant and meticulously designed. Gardens like the Humble Administrator’s Garden and Lingering Garden are masterpieces of Chinese garden art, reflecting the ancient Chinese philosophy of harmony with nature.
Besides the gardens, Suzhou offers a unique cultural experience: Pingtan, a traditional form of storytelling through song. You can sip tea while listening to performers sing in the local Suzhou dialect, immersing yourself in the leisurely lifestyle of the locals.
Wuzhen and Zhouzhuang: Ancient Water Towns
If you want to dive deeper into China’s ancient architecture and culture, don’t miss Wuzhen and Zhouzhuang, two picturesque water towns near Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou. Wuzhen is known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty buildings, while Zhouzhuang is often called the "Venice of the East." Walking along the stone-paved streets and crossing ancient bridges, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
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· Option 2
Beijing + Datong – A Deep Dive into History and Culture
Beijing, China’s capital, is a must-visit for any first-time traveler to China. It’s a city where ancient history meets modern vibrancy. Just 2 hours away by high-speed train is Datong, a historic city known for its Buddhist culture and ancient architecture. Together, these two cities offer a deep dive into China’s rich history and cultural diversity.
Beijing: Where Ancient Meets Modern
Beijing is one of the most iconic cities in China, home to world-famous landmarks like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City (Palace Museum), and the hutongs (traditional alleyways).
- · The Great Wall: One of the greatest architectural feats in history, the Great Wall is a symbol of China. Standing on the wall, you’ll feel the grandeur of ancient China. We recommend visiting the Badaling or Mutianyu sections, which are well-preserved and easy to access.
- · The Forbidden City: This imperial palace, with over 600 years of history, was home to emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Walking through its red walls and golden roofs, you’ll be awed by its scale and intricate details.
- · Hutongs: These narrow alleyways are the soul of old Beijing. You can explore them by bike or rickshaw, soaking in the local life. Areas like Nanluoguxiang and Shichahai are great places to experience hutong culture.
Beyond its historical sites, Beijing is a bustling modern metropolis. The CBD’s skyscrapers, the trendy Sanlitun district, and the artistic 798 Art Zone all showcase the city’s vibrant energy. With its high level of internationalization and convenient transportation, Beijing is a great choice for first-time visitors.
Datong: A Treasure Trove of Buddhist Culture
Just 2 hours from Beijing by high-speed train, Datong is a city steeped in history, particularly known for its Buddhist art and ancient architecture.
- · Yungang Grottoes: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these ancient caves are filled with over 50,000 Buddhist statues, showcasing the artistry of the Northern Wei dynasty. If you’ve played Black Myth: Wukong, you’ll recognize some of the game’s inspirations here.
- · Hanging Temple: Built into a cliffside, this temple seems to defy gravity. It’s a unique blend of Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian elements.
- · Huayan Temple: One of the largest and best-preserved Buddhist temples from the Liao and Jin dynasties, it’s filled with exquisite murals and sculptures.
While Datong is less international than Beijing, its historical significance makes it worth the trip. Just be sure to plan ahead, as English isn’t widely spoken.
Click👉Survival Chinese Program is designed to equip you with essential language skills
and practical tips for traveling in China, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience!
· Option 3
Chengdu + Chongqing + Xi’an – Hotpot, Pandas, and Terracotta Warriors
If you’re looking to experience China’s food, natural wonders, and history, the trio of Chengdu, Chongqing, and Xi’an is a must! These cities are located in western China, offering a different vibe from the eastern cities like Shanghai and Beijing. The culture here is more rugged and passionate, and the food is famously spicy. Thanks to China’s high-speed rail network, traveling between these cities is a breeze (though Xi’an is a bit farther, taking 4-5 hours by train).
Chengdu: The Land of Pandas and Leisurely Living
Chengdu is known for its laid-back lifestyle. Locals love to sip tea, play mahjong, and just enjoy life at a slower pace than in the bustling eastern cities. Of course, the star attraction here is the giant panda. You can visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see these adorable creatures up close. Chengdu is also the gateway to the panda’s natural habitat in Sichuan’s mountains.
Chengdu is also the birthplace of Sichuan cuisine, one of China’s eight major culinary traditions. If you’re up for some spice, don’t miss Chengdu’s hotpot, skewers, and dan dan noodles. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Chongqing: The 8D Mountain City
Chongqing is a city of contrasts, with its mountainous terrain and futuristic skyline. The city’s monorail runs right through apartment buildings, and the towering skyscrapers seem to defy gravity. At night, the city lights up like something out of a sci-fi movie.
A must-visit spot is Hongya Cave, a stilted building complex that looks magical at night. If you have time, take a trip to see the Leshan Giant Buddha, the largest stone Buddha in the world.
Like Chengdu, Chongqing is famous for its spicy Sichuan cuisine, especially its hotpot. If you’re not a fan of spice, you might find the options limited, but who knows—you might discover a new love for bold flavors!
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Xi’an: The Ancient Capital and the Terracotta Warriors
Xi’an, located in northwest China, is a bit farther from Chengdu and Chongqing (4-5 hours by high-speed train), but it’s well worth the trip. As one of China’s four ancient capitals, Xi’an has over 3,000 years of history. It’s said that any construction site in Xi’an could turn into an archaeological dig at any moment!
The star attraction here is the Terracotta Warriors, one of the world’s eight wonders and a symbol of ancient Chinese civilization. Other must-sees include the Ancient City Wall, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and Bell and Drum Towers.
Despite the challenges of building a subway system in such a historically rich city, Xi’an has managed to create a modern metro system, blending the old with the new.
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Click👉Survival Chinese Program is designed to equip you with essential language skills
and practical tips for traveling in China, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience!
· Option 4
Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area – Food, History, and Modernity
The people of Guangdong have always been known for their adventurous spirit. Many have traveled overseas, bringing Cantonese cuisine to Chinatowns around the world. Whether you’re in New York, London, or Sydney, you’ll likely find a Cantonese restaurant. We recommend the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area not just for its delicious Cantonese food, but also for its unique blend of history, modernity, and international flair.
Another reason to visit? Guangdong is close to Hong Kong and Macau, making it easy to extend your trip. If you find the 10-day visa-free period too short, you can hop over to Hong Kong and get another 10 days, giving you more time to explore.
The Greater Bay Area includes Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, and Macau, all located along China’s southern coast. This region is one of the most economically vibrant in China and a melting pot of Eastern and Western cultures.
Guangzhou: The Food Capital and Dim Sum Culture
Guangzhou is the culinary heart of China, famous for its Cantonese cuisine. From dim sum to roast meats and claypot rice, every dish showcases the region’s dedication to flavor and technique. Dim sum is a way of life here—locals love to gather with friends or family for a leisurely meal of dumplings, buns, and tea.
What’s great about Guangzhou is that even the street food is top-notch. You don’t need to go to fancy restaurants to enjoy amazing food. Beyond the food, Guangzhou has rich cultural sites like Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Shamian Island, and the Canton Tower, where you can soak in the local culture.
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Shenzhen: From Fishing Village to Tech Hub
Shenzhen’s rise is nothing short of miraculous. Just 40 years ago, it was a small fishing village, but today it’s one of China’s most modern cities, home to tech giants like Huawei, Tencent, and DJI.
The city’s skyline is dominated by sleek skyscrapers, such as the Ping An Finance Centre and Shenzhen Bay Super Headquarters Base. If you love modern urban life, Shenzhen is the place to be. Its shopping malls, theme parks, and waterfront areas are perfect for visitors.
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Hong Kong and Macau: Where East Meets West
Hong Kong and Macau are two special administrative regions within the Greater Bay Area, each with its own unique charm.
- · Hong Kong: A global metropolis, Hong Kong is known for its stunning skyline, vibrant culture, and world-class food. Don’t miss the night view of Victoria Harbour, the panoramic views from Victoria Peak, and the fun of Disneyland. Shopping here is also a dream, with everything from luxury brands to local treasures.
- · Macau: Macau is a blend of Chinese and Portuguese cultures. Beyond its famous casinos, you’ll find historic sites like the Ruins of St. Paul’s and A-Ma Temple. And of course, you have to try the Portuguese egg tarts and pork chop buns!
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Click👉Survival Chinese Program is designed to equip you with essential language skills
and practical tips for traveling in China, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience!
Conclusion: Your China Adventure Starts Here!
Of course, China has so much more to offer—this is just the tip of the iceberg. If you’ve already been to China or want to explore more of its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, stay tuned! In our next article, we’ll recommend some advanced routes for foreign travelers, including the mystical Tibet, the breathtaking Yunnan, and the vast Inner Mongolia. Keep following us for more travel inspiration!
Whether it’s your first time in China or you’re already a seasoned traveler, this land always has new surprises and wonders to offer. We hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip. And if you’re interested in learning Chinese or diving deeper into Chinese culture, come visit us in Hangzhou—we’d love to welcome you!
Wishing you an amazing time in China!
If you’re eager to begin your Chinese language journey before arriving in China, feel free to reach out about our Survival Chinese Program. This program is designed to equip you with essential language skills and practical tips for traveling in China, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience. Let us help you get a head start on your adventure!
