How to Get a Tax Refund When Shopping in China: A Guide for International Travelers

Planning a trip to China? Besides breathtaking scenery, historic sites, and vibrant local experiences, there’s one more perk that makes your journey even sweeter—you can get a tax refund on your shopping! Whether you’re buying traditional crafts in Beijing or luxury goods in Shanghai, here’s everything you need to know to take advantage of China’s departure tax refund policy. What Is China’s Departure Tax Refund? The departure tax refund allows overseas travelers to get back a portion of the VAT (value-added tax) they pay when shopping in China. This policy has recently been optimized to make shopping more rewarding and […]

First Time in China? Here’s the Best City to Visit in One Week

Planning your first trip to China and only have one week? You’re not alone! With so many incredible cities and rich cultural heritage, choosing where to go can be overwhelming. But if this is your very first visit and you want to experience the best of China in a short time, Beijing is the perfect place to start. Why Choose Beijing for Your First Trip? Beijing is China’s historic and cultural heart. It offers a perfect mix of ancient landmarks, delicious food, vibrant neighborhoods, and modern conveniences—all packed into one exciting city. What’s more, it’s easy to reach from international […]

🌏 First Time Traveling to China? Here’s What You Need to Know

Planning your very first trip to China? Exciting! China is a country full of rich culture, incredible history, and jaw-dropping sights—but it’s also a place with a few unique travel quirks. Whether you’re heading to Beijing, Shanghai, or Xi’an, this guide will help you prepare like a pro. Here are some essential tips for a smooth and stress-free trip to China: 🚫 Avoid Traveling During China’s Public Holidays While it may seem fun to experience local celebrations, China’s major holidays often mean crowded attractions, packed trains, and sky-high hotel prices. Here are the main holiday dates to avoid: ✏️ Pro […]

10 Must-Visit Parks in Beijing: Where Nature Meets Imperial Majesty

Beijing isn’t just a city of skyscrapers and palaces—it’s also a city of stunning parks, many of which were once the playgrounds of emperors. From peaceful lakes and secret bamboo groves to powerful energy fields and ancient temples, these green spaces offer a fresh way to explore the soul of the capital. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or history fan, here are 10 parks in Beijing you can’t miss—each one with a story, a view, and a unique experience. 1. Summer Palace (颐和园 yí hé yuán) – The Grandest Imperial Garden 🌿 Recommended: 4–6 hoursStroll around Kunming Lake, explore […]

Which Great Wall Section Is Right for You? A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors

The Great Wall of China is not just a symbol of Chinese history—it’s a bucket-list destination for travelers from around the world. But with so many different sections near Beijing, how do you choose the right one? Whether you’re traveling with kids, hiking enthusiasts, or simply want to avoid the crowds, this guide will help you find the perfect Great Wall experience for your trip to Beijing. 1. Badaling Great Wall (八达岭 Bādá Lǐng) – Most Famous & Easiest to Access Badaling is the most visited section for a reason: it’s well-preserved, scenic, and tourist-friendly. However, it can get very […]

Huangpu River Night Cruise: The Best Night View in Shanghai

If you’re visiting Shanghai, don’t miss a night cruise on the Huangpu River. It’s the best way to see the city glow—from the historic Bund to the futuristic towers of Lujiazui, all lit up in dazzling colors. ✨ Why Take the Cruise? At night, Shanghai becomes a city of lights. On one side, you’ll see the golden colonial buildings of The Bund. On the other, the modern skyline sparkles with neon—Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, Jin Mao Tower, and more. The contrast is stunning. 🚢 What to Expect 🥂 Want Something Extra? Some cruises offer dinner and drinks—perfect for a […]