Popular Chinese Destinations: Things to Know, What to Wear, How to Act

When traveling to China for vacation or business, there are many popular destinations and attractions that you may wish to see.  However, China is a big place, with a diverse climate and diverse population. In this article, we’ll provide some key advice on preparations for visiting some of the most popular Chinese destinations. It includes advice and tips on what to wear and what to bring, as well as things you should know, and how to act. 

The Great Wall, Beijing

One of the main attractions for any trip to China, the Great Wall is a must-see.  It spans nearly 4,000 miles. The most ideal locations to see the Great Wall are relatively close to Beijing and include Mutianyu, Jinshanling, and Huanghuacheng, and Badaling – arguably the most popular spot.

Regardless of where you visit the wall, it’s an outdoor experience, so you should dress and prepare accordingly. The typical climate in the greater Beijing area at Great Wall sites can vary considerably from day to night, and season to season.  In the summer and fall months, shorts and a T-shirt are ideal for during the day, though pants and a light jacket may be necessary at night.  Winter and spring tend to be much cooler, so heavier clothing is recommended. Depending on your desired activities (e.g., going for a hike along the wall), you may want to bring sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots.  Food and water in a backpack are also recommended, as there can be quite a line or wait to get to the wall, and hiking takes longer still.  Don’t forget the sunscreen or the camera, either!

china The Great Wall

The Terracotta Army, Xi'an

The Terracotta Army is a sight to behold.  It is located in the Lintong District in Xian, Shaanxi Province, in central China.  It was first discovered in 1974 and is part of the tomb of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China, dating to 200 BC.  In total, some 8,000+ terracotta figures are buried in the funerary pits, and many that have been excavated can be seen inside the truly massive complex and associated museum.

In general, as there is a good deal of outdoor activity mixed with indoor here, you’re going to want to wear clothing that won’t keep you too hot or too cold (depending on the time of year).  Xian ranges from 24-41°F in January to 72-90°F in July. Good walking shoes are a must and a camera. There are toilet facilities on sight, but they are standard Chinese squat style, so be sure to bring a roll of toilet paper and hand sanitizer in your backpack.  You are also advised to avoid the restaurants and souvenir shops, as they tend to be overpriced.  Last but not least, remember, this site is a tomb of the first Chinese emperor, so respect and reverence is warranted.

china The Terracotta Army

Li River Region, Guilin

The Li River is a 52-mile long river that stretches from the city of Guilin to Yangshuo.  It is in Guangxi, in south-central China.  There are a number of sights to see here, highlighted in many tourist guides.  The best way to see this area is a mix of on-foot adventures in Guilin, and a river cruise down the Li River. From Zhujiang Pier, larger cruise boats operate, usually offering a 4 to 5-hour tour down to Yangshuo.  They include a buffet lunch, though are often very crowded.  Shorter bamboo rafting tours are available from Yangdi village that run to Xingping village, about 2 hours in length, and are smaller and more private.

Regardless of which option you may choose, the best times to visit tend to be in the late spring/early summer, mid-summer/early fall, or during the winter.  Temperatures range from 30-45°F in winter months to the mid-70s and low 80s in summer.  There is a large amount of rainfall in May and June, though much of the spring and summer is rainy and misty.  Be sure to bring a water-resistant jacket or poncho with you when visiting.

china The Li River

The Forbidden City, Beijing

The Forbidden City in Beijing was an active palace at the center of Chinese imperial life from 1420 to 1912.  Today, it houses the Palace Museum, with artwork and historical items from across the centuries of Chinese history.  With nearly 1,000 buildings, there’s too much to see in one trip.  The most popular spots are the six main halls along the center of the complex.  It is also recommended that you get outside the complex, up at Jingshan Park, where you can get an amazing overview of the entire complex from an elevated location – great for photos!

Winter (November to March) tends to be the slow season, with fewer crowds.  During the busy season, from April to October, tickets can sell out fast – they are limited to 80,000 per day.  Therefore, arranging tickets in advance is recommended.  As the Forbidden City is quite massive, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking, comfortable and sturdy walking shoes are critical.  Snacks and drinks are advised, along with sunscreen – a good portion of the Forbidden City is outdoors.  And as always, remember a camera!

china The Great Wall

The Financial Center, Shanghai

Shanghai, on the eastern coast of China, is the largest city in China by population.  It offers a large array of sites for visitors that highlight the culture and architecture of this modern city, as well as the history of its past.  There are museums, cultural centers, gardens, galleries, and of course, Disneyland Shanghai. 

Temperatures range from 34-47° in January to a high of 78-90° in July.  Other than October to December, rain tends to fall between 20% and 35% of the days in any given month.  Good walking shoes and clothes appropriate for the time of year you are visiting are critical.  A bag or backpack is often recommended, to keep your maps, guides, a drink and snack, camera, and similar safe and with you at all times.  There is an extensive public transit system to get around.  Air pollution is fairly low compared to other Chinese cities but can flare up – if it gets bad, do indoor activities that day. 

china The Financial Center in Shanghai

With the most Ethnic Minorities, Yunnan Province

Yunnan Province is located in the extreme southwest of China, bordering Tibet, Vietnam, Myanmar, and Laos.  The area is largely mountainous.  It has a large amount of plant and animal life diversity. It is considered the most ethnically diverse province in China, representing 25 of the 56 ethnic groups recognized in China.  Yunnan is one of the top tourist destinations, owing to the milder climate, diversity of citizenry and culture, and the variety and beauty of the landscapes of the area. The minority groups in the region tend to live in individual, compact communities and districts.  As such, there are a wide variety of differences in customs, dress, food, and culture in this area.  Visitors are advised to research the area they intend to visit in detail, to ensure they are aware of any cultural or customs differences that might be considered offensive or impolite.

china The Dai in Yunnan

As temperatures tend to stay warmer here, lighter clothes are advised for much of the year.  Good walking shoes are critical.  There are literally hundreds of things to see and do here – just be sure to do your research, plan your trip, and be on your best behavior!  And, as always, don’t forget your camera! 

Relates Articles

Related Tours