China at a glance

  • Capital: Beijing
  • Currency: CNY (Renminbi)
  • Time zone: UTC+8
  • Language: Mandarin Chinese, with regional dialects

Culture and etiquette

Plan for busy urban centers, rich regional cuisine, and a strong emphasis on digital payments. Polite queueing, speaking softly in transit, and carrying your passport are common expectations.

Nature and landscapes

China spans deserts, karst mountains, tropical coasts, and high plateaus. Choose destinations by season and travel time rather than just city count.

Climate and seasonality

Spring and autumn are generally the most comfortable for city travel. Summers can be hot and humid in the east and south; winters are dry and cold in the north.

Travel restrictions and planning notes

Always verify visa rules, rail ticket release windows, and attraction reservation requirements close to departure.