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China Travel Guide

Planning your dream trip to China? Whether you're drawn to the ancient wonders of the Great Wall, craving spicy Sichuan hotpot, or wondering how to get a visa — we’ve got you covered.
Explore China like a pro with this curated guide, full of practical travel advice and insider tips.

📍 Top Attractions in China

From majestic historical landmarks to hidden natural gems, dive into our top travel guides:

  • The Great Wall Guide: Which Section Should You Visit?
  • Beijing’s Hutongs: 10 Alleys You Shouldn't Miss

➡️ Explore All Attraction Guides

🍜 Chinese Food & Local Life

Food is at the heart of Chinese culture. Our local food blogs help you navigate China’s culinary landscape and discover unique local experiences:

  • How to Find Great Local Food in China: 3 Must-Have Apps

➡️ Explore Chinese Food Blogs

📄 Travel Tips & China Visa Policy

First time traveling to China? Check out our practical guides on travel documents, refund policies, and more:

  • How to Apply for a China Tourist Visa
  • China Departure Tax Refund: Can You Get Money Back?
  • When to Visit China: Best Times by Region

➡️ Read All Travel Tips

❓China Travel FAQs

Q: Do I need a visa to travel to China from the US?
Yes, most travelers need a tourist (L) visa. Read more

Q: Is it easy to use credit cards in China?
Not always. Learn how to use Alipay/WeChat Pay as a foreigner. See our tips

Q: Can I travel without speaking Chinese?
Definitely. Our guides and apps will help you navigate with ease. Explore tools

🎒 Ready to Explore China?

Let Big Panda Tours help you create unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re planning a classic Beijing–Shanghai–Hangzhou route, or a panda volunteer experience in Chengdu — we’ve got the perfect tour for you.

👉 View All China Tours
👉 Contact Us for Help

A Food Lover’s Guide to Must-Try Sichuan Street Food 🍜🌶️
Food

A Food Lover’s Guide to Must-Try Sichuan Street Food 🍜🌶️

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Why Sichuan Street Food Is a Must-Try for Every Foodie When you think of Sichuan cuisine, you probably picture bubbling hot pot or mouth-numbing Mapo Tofu. But the true charm of Sichuan street food lies in its bustling markets, roadside stalls, and small neighborhood shops. In Chengdu and across Sichuan, you’ll find locals grabbing quick bites packed with bold flavors, vibrant colors, and rich aromas. Whether you’re an adventurous eater or just looking for something comforting, this Sichuan street food guide will help you taste the region’s best. Top Sichuan Street Foods You Can’t Miss 1. Bobo Chicken (钵钵鸡 Bō […]

China’s 30-Day Visa-Free Entry Policy in 2025: Everything You Need to Know
Visa & Regulations

China’s 30-Day Visa-Free Entry Policy in 2025: Everything You Need to Know

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Thinking about visiting China without the hassle of getting a visa? Great news! In 2025, China has expanded its 30-day visa-free entry policy, making it easier than ever for travelers from 43 countries to explore the country—visa free. Whether you’re visiting for sightseeing, business meetings, or to reconnect with friends and family, this China visa free policy opens the door for a smoother journey. 🧳 What Is the 30-Day China Visa-Free Policy? As of 2025, citizens from 43 countries can enjoy visa-free travel to China for up to 30 calendar days. This applies to visitors coming for: ✅ No visa […]

DIY Tie-Dye in Dali: The Most Unique Souvenir You Can Create in Yunnan
Culture

DIY Tie-Dye in Dali: The Most Unique Souvenir You Can Create in Yunnan

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Looking for a meaningful, one-of-a-kind gift to bring home from your China trip? Skip the mass-produced souvenirs—Dali offers something far more personal. In this picturesque Yunnan town, you can join a traditional Bai minority tie-dye workshop (known as Zha Ran) to create your very own scarf, shirt, or tote bag. 🧵 What Is Zha Ran? Zha Ran (扎染) is an ancient natural dyeing technique that originated over 1,000 years ago with the Bai ethnic group in Yunnan. It uses plant-based dyes, especially deep blue indigo, to color fabrics through a creative process of twisting, folding, binding, and dipping. ✨ The […]

Huaqing Palace in Xi’an: A Hidden Gem Beyond the Terracotta Warriors 🌸♨️
Travel Guide

Huaqing Palace in Xi’an: A Hidden Gem Beyond the Terracotta Warriors 🌸♨️

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Just a few minutes from the Terracotta Warriors, Huaqing Palace (华清池 Huá Qīng Chí) offers a different kind of wonder—natural hot springs, romantic imperial legends, and stunning views of Mount Li at sunset. If you’re looking to go beyond the usual sights in Xi’an, this 3,000-year-old royal retreat is not to be missed. 🏯 What Is Huaqing Palace? A former royal retreat dating back over 3,000 years, featuring Tang Dynasty architecture, hot spring culture, and the love story of Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei—one of China’s most famous romances. 📸 Top Things to See at Huaqing Palace 🎶 Evening Highlight: […]

Eating Like a Local in China: 3 Apps That Help You Find Great Food
Food

Eating Like a Local in China: 3 Apps That Help You Find Great Food

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One of the best parts of visiting China? The food. From spicy Sichuan hotpot to juicy soup dumplings, China’s culinary scene is diverse, exciting, and absolutely delicious. But if you don’t speak Chinese or know where to go, finding great local restaurants can be overwhelming. That’s where a few handy apps come in. Here are three essential apps that will help you discover the best eats in town, order with confidence, and eat like a local. 1. Dianping (大众点评 dà zhòng diǎn píng) – China’s Yelp What it is: Dianping is China’s most trusted food review platform—think of it as […]

Fanjingshan Travel Guide 2025: Sacred Temples, Cloud Views & Hiking Tips
Travel Guide

Fanjingshan Travel Guide 2025: Sacred Temples, Cloud Views & Hiking Tips

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Looking to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in sacred nature? Fanjingshan (Fanjing Mountain) is one of China’s most underrated travel gems. Tucked away in Guizhou Province, this UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve offers cloud-kissed temples, surreal rock formations, and spiritual tranquility. This Fanjingshan travel guide covers everything: what to see, how to get there, and where to stay. What Is Fanjingshan? A Sacred Mountain in Guizhou Fanjingshan is located at the border of Jiangkou, Yinjiang, and Songtao counties in Tongren, northeastern Guizhou Province. Its highest peak, Phoenix Mountain, stands at 2,572 meters (8,438 ft) above sea level. The mountain is […]

5 Best Panda Bear Tours in China: Your Complete Guide (2025)
Panda tours

5 Best Panda Bear Tours in China: Your Complete Guide (2025)

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Picture this: A 200-pound teddy bear tumbles down a hill, crashes into bamboo, and keeps munching like nothing happened. Welcome to Chengdu — where a panda bear tour means watching nature’s funniest wildlife show. Planning a panda bear tour in China? Chengdu is home to over 80% of the world’s captive giant pandas. From celebrity pandas like Huahua to remote mountain sanctuaries, here are your 5 best options. 1. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Best for First-Timers 📍 Location: 30 min from city center 🕒 Hours: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM 🎫 Admission: ¥55 (~$8 USD) 🚇 Getting […]

China Tax Refund for Tourists: How to Claim Your VAT Rebate When Shopping
Visa & Regulations

China Tax Refund for Tourists: How to Claim Your VAT Rebate When Shopping

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Planning a trip to China? Here’s something many travelers don’t realize—you can actually get a VAT refund on many of your purchases before you leave the country. Whether you’re buying tea in Yunnan or designer bags in Shanghai, this guide will help you claim your China tax refund like a pro. 🧾 What Is China’s Tax Refund for Tourists? Tourists can receive a partial refund of the VAT (Value-Added Tax) paid when shopping at approved “Tax Free” stores in China. This makes shopping more rewarding—and it’s now easier than ever thanks to recent policy upgrades. 🛍️ Who Can Get a […]

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

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

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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 travel guide Travel Guide

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

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1️⃣Summer Palace (颐和园 Yíhéyuán) – Where Royal Dreams Float on Water ⏰ Recommended: 4–6 hours Glide through shimmering Kunming Lake, stroll under painted corridors, and watch reflections of pavilions ripple on the water. From the top of Longevity Hill, the whole scene looks like a painting brought to life. ✨ Don’t miss: A sunset boat ride — when the lake turns golden and the sky blushes pink. 2️⃣ Temple of Heaven (天坛 Tiāntán) – Where Emperors Spoke to the Sky ⏰ Recommended: 3–4 hoursWalk the sacred path where emperors once prayed for good harvests. The Hall of Prayer for Good […]