Discover Tailor-Made China Vacations

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most popular times to visit. With mild temperatures, clear skies, and blooming landscapes, spring is perfect for garden strolls, city walks, and countryside escapes. Autumn, meanwhile, offers crisp air and golden scenery, making it ideal for trekking and outdoor adventures. Do note that early October and Chinese New Year draw large domestic crowds, so planning around holidays is wise.

Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid in cities like Shanghai, though drier in Beijing. It’s still a good time for cultural sightseeing, particularly if you’re seeking affordable flights and accommodation. Winter (December to February) transforms northern China into a snow-covered wonderland. Though cold, it is the best season for skiing and icy landscapes, while southern China enjoys milder weather perfect for exploration. The quiet months outside major holidays also bring lower travel costs.

For a deeper dive, consider a 13-day route that begins in Beijing, passes through Hangzhou and the peaks of Huangshan, and ends in Shanghai. Even a shorter stay rewards you richly—a four-day stopover in Beijing alone allows time for the Forbidden City and the Great Wall.

Whether you’re drawn to spring blossoms, autumn treks, or winter snowscapes, China’s diverse seasons ensure there’s always a reason to go.

The country’s traditions remain deeply rooted, shaped by Confucian values of family, hierarchy, and respect. Etiquette plays a key role in daily interactions—greetings are polite and formal, gifts are given thoughtfully, and elders are treated with honour. Festivals like Lunar New Year highlight this cultural richness, filling streets with red lanterns, fireworks, and family reunions. The zodiac adds another layer of meaning, connecting people to cycles of time and animal symbolism.

China’s highlights are endless. In Beijing, the Forbidden City and the Great Wall transport visitors back to the power and artistry of ancient dynasties. In Shanghai, modern skyscrapers tower over the Bund, while the tranquil Yu Garden offers a peaceful retreat. For natural beauty, Guilin’s karst mountains and the jade-green Li River captivate travellers with scenery so iconic it graces the 20 yuan note.

Religion, dress, and art also reflect China’s layered identity. While the state is officially atheist, Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, and Christianity are practiced, often blending with folk traditions. Traditional clothing like Hanfu and Tangzhuang continues to influence modern styles, while intricate crafts and architecture reflect centuries of artistry.

Mandarin is the official language, and English is rarely spoken outside tourist centres, so learning a few key phrases goes a long way. With its deep sense of “face”—honour and respect—Chinese society values modesty and courtesy, making cultural sensitivity a rewarding part of travel here.

In China, every interaction—whether over tea, in a bustling market, or at a festival—reveals a culture that honours its past while embracing its future.

Each province brings its own flavour profile. In the south, rice dominates, while wheat-based dumplings and noodles are staples in the north. Cantonese cuisine is famed for dim sum and stir-fries, while Sichuan dishes ignite the palate with chilli and numbing peppercorns. Shandong highlights seafood and soups, and across the country hot pot—where diners cook meats, vegetables, and noodles in a bubbling broth—is a beloved communal ritual.

Iconic dishes define the dining experience: Peking duck with its crisp skin, soup-filled xiaolóngbāo, fiery Kung Pao chicken, or simple street-side bites like jianbing (a savoury crêpe) and roujiamo (a Chinese-style burger). Every meal feels like an opportunity to discover something new.

Dining etiquette reflects harmony and respect. Meals are usually shared around a round table, with elders and hosts taking the lead. Toasts, chopstick etiquette, and small gestures like leaving a little food in your bowl all carry meaning. Drinking rituals are equally rich, with ganbei (cheers) central to celebrations. Baijiu, China’s grain spirit, is a common companion, while tea and soy milk remain everyday staples.

For travellers with dietary restrictions, options exist but require planning—Halal food is widely available, while vegetarian meals are more often found near Buddhist temples. Street food is inexpensive at $2–4, casual meals average $5–8, and fine dining can soar to $100 or more.

To eat in China is to experience its culture first-hand—layered, communal, and endlessly diverse.

Costs vary depending on travel preferences. High-end experiences can average around $500 per day per traveller, while mid-range trips are closer to $350 daily, excluding international airfare. With thoughtful planning, China caters to a wide range of budgets without compromising on memorable experiences.

Practicalities are key. Travellers from Canada and the United States require an L visa, usually arranged in advance with proof of flights, accommodation, and a valid passport. Getting around is straightforward thanks to China’s vast transport network. High-speed trains are efficient for city-to-city travel, while domestic flights are another option. Be mindful that many Western websites and apps are restricted, so plan to use local alternatives.

China is generally safe, though awareness is important. Scams, such as invitations to overpriced tea houses, can be avoided with caution. Always carry your passport as proof of identity. The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY), with cash still essential in smaller markets and taxis, despite digital payments being common in cities.

Tipping is not widely practiced, though rounding up bills or leaving 5–10% at upscale restaurants is appreciated. Hotel staff may also welcome modest tips. For LGBTQ+ travellers, China is largely tolerant in tourist areas but lacks legal protections, so discretion is advised.

With the right preparation, China reveals itself as a land of iconic landscapes, living traditions, and unforgettable encounters.