China
China is sensory overload at its finest. It's got sprawling megacities and symphonies of noise, but also blissful mountains and mouth-numbing delicacies. It's a country of contrasts, from ancient temples to futuristic skylines, and there's plenty here to keep you on your toes. Give it a chance and you'll have a damn good time.
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China Accommodation Guides
Editor's PickWhere to Stay in Beijing (COOLEST Neighborhoods!)
Where to Stay in Beijing Looking for a specific place to stay? These are my highest recommendations for places to stay in…
Editor's PickWhere to Stay in Guangzhou (COOLEST Areas!)
Guangzhou Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Guangzhou 5 Best Neighborhoods To Stay In Guangzhou At this point, you may still…
Editor's PickMUST READ: Where to Stay in Shanghai
Where To Stay In Shanghai In a hurry? These are our top recommendations for places to stay in Shanghai. Riverdale Residence |…
Editor's PickThe 4 Best Hostels in Beijing
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Beijing The 4 Best Hostels in Beijing Now that you know what to expect from Beijing…
Editor's Pick10 BEST Hostels in Shanghai (Insider Guide!)
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Shanghai What to Consider with the Best Hostels in Shanghai When picking the best hostel in…
Plan Your Trip
Hostels
The one we actually use to lock in dorm beds across China.
Hotels
Treat yourself to your own room once in a while.
eSIM
Data the second you land – no SIM hunt at the airport.
Travel Insurance
The cover we trust on every trip – built for backpackers, actually affordable.
Tours
Even on a budget, some experiences are worth paying for.
Transport
Book your trains, planes, buses and ferries across China.
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China Travel FAQs
Is China easy to travel around independently?
Yes. China has an excellent high-speed rail network connecting many of its major cities, making independent travel much easier than you might expect. The main challenges are the language barrier, internet restrictions and getting used to China's mobile payment system, so a little preparation before you go will make things much smoother.
How long do you need to backpack China?
China is huge, so you could easily spend a month or more exploring. Two weeks is enough for a few major highlights such as Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai, while 3 to 4 weeks gives you more time to explore places like Yunnan, Sichuan or Guilin without constantly being on the move.
Is China expensive to travel?
China can be surprisingly affordable for backpackers. Local food, public transport and budget accommodation are generally good value, although costs can rise in major cities and for attractions. High-speed trains are also relatively affordable compared with flying, especially when you're covering long distances.
Do you need a VPN to travel in China?
China restricts access to many international websites and apps, including Google, Facebook, YouTube and X. VPN use is subject to Chinese regulations, so travellers should check the latest rules before they go and plan how they'll access essential services while in the country.