Travel Tips for China

China is a diverse country with countless cultural attractions, historic sites and unique travel destinations to explore. Even though it is one of the world’s largest Communist areas, China attracts millions of travelers each year and has become famous for its breathtaking countryside landscapes, high-end restaurant and dining experiences, and colorful nightlife.

The Facts

China is home to over 1.3 billion citizens and hundreds of historic sites, unique tourist attractions and cultural centers. Even though the political climate is still centered on Communism, the country attracts millions of tourists each year with accommodations and tourist facilities located in both urban and rural areas. Non-citizen visitors to China must have a valid passport and visa to enter the country, and may also need to obtain special travel documents from the Chinese Embassy and Consulate prior to arrival.

Significance

China is divided into 23 provinces and 5 distinct regions, each with its own cultural traits, unique characteristics and world-renown attractions. Beijing, the capital of China, serves as the cultural capital for tourists and residents alike, and features several entertainment districts, modern hotels and accommodation facilities, and historic sites. Other points of interest for travelers include Shanghai, an elegant and historic city; Xian, which once served as the capital city of 13 dynasties; Guilin, famous for its beautiful landscapes; and Guangzhou, a historical metropolis in southern China.

Types

Getting around the cities of China can be challenging, since the capital city and other metro areas are densely populated territories. The most common forms of transportation in China include charter planes, inter-city railways, buses and taxis. The most reliable forms of transportation are the metro train and bus system; traveling across China’s waterways on a cruise or a boat are other modes of transportation for those who wish to take a scenic tour of the area.

Considerations

Tibet is just one of several regions of China that requires a special permit for travel; permits can be obtained through an area travel agent, and visitors who do not acquire a permit before travel can be taken into custody. Non-citizen visitors will also need to provide a valid passport as identification when booking hotel rooms and other accommodations; in some cases, guest houses and schools will also need formal identification to conduct a security check.

Benefits

Traveling to China is an exciting, one-of-a-kind experience that offers several opportunities for learning about the cultures, customs and norms of ancient Eastern civilizations. China’s capital alone is home to hundreds of cultural activities, events and traditional parades, making the area a coveted travel destination. The economic climate of China continues to improve, with new construction and renovations taking place throughout the metro areas, offering more opportunities for a comfortable and memorable experience.

Cultural Tips for China

China's cultural differences are part of what make it such a fascinating country to visit on a gap year. To get an idea of what to expect, take a look at our cultural tips for China.

Number 1 of our cultural tips for China - dodge the phlegm
One of our less pleasant cultural tips for China. Unfortunately for travellers, spitting is as common as clearing your throat in China. The result? Unsightly blobs on pavements, in restaurants and bars, on buses and trains and probably in houses, too. Old habits die hard, and delivering lectures on how disgusting it is won't change anything - just accept it as one of the cultural differences in China and get fancy with your footwork.

Number 2 of our cultural tips for China - smoking ban? What's that, then?
The concept of not being allowed to smoke is alien to many Chinese people, even if they don't smoke. Again, there's not much you can do about. Our tip is to head for open spaces when it gets too much - and be glad of smoke-free England. If you do smoke, you'll be in your element. If you don't, be aware that cultural differences in China mean an offer of a cigarette is an offer of friendship. Try to be appreciative and apologetic if you turn it down!

Number 3 of our cultural tips for China - put on your travelling best
This cultural tip will probably get you a better response in hostels, bars, restaurants etc. Scruffy clothes won't go down well - clean, non-ripped items will.

Number 4 of our cultural tips for China - thanks might not be forthcoming
A cultural tip for making a good impression with a host family is to take a gift. (That applies whether you're staying with them, or just going round for dinner.) However, they're not big on saying thank you and don't usually open presents in front of you. It doesn't mean they're not grateful - they just prefer to show it through actions.

Number 5 of our cultural tips for China - bargain away
Market stallholders will expect to be bargained with, so try out your skills. You'll probably get better as you go on, but our cultural tip for China for your first time is to offer around a quarter of what they want, and increase your price slowly.

Number 6 of our cultural tips for China - chopstick rules
As in Japan, cultural differences in China mean that what you do with your chopsticks can cause quite a stir. Standing them upright signifies death, and you shouldn't use them to point at anyone, either. An inoffensive place for them is lying across your bowl or plate, pointing to the left.

Number 7 of our cultural tips of China - don't be alarmed by flapping carrier bags!
Markets in China are colourful places but not for the squeamish or animal-lover. The Chinese like their food fresh, and the downside of that is the live animals that are on show before they're taken round the back and killed. In the case of fish, they might not quite be dead when they're handed to you! Again, these cultural differences in China aren't going to change - they're just part of China's unique blend of beliefs and traditions.