China

China spans temperate coasts, high plateaus, subtropical south, northern steppes. Key features include the Yangtze River, Yellow River, Tibetan Plateau, Himalaya fringe and coastal deltas near Shanghai and Guangzhou — expect wide climate swings by region.

Dynastic layers shape modern sites: imperial capitals like Beijing and Xi'an host millennia of architecture, while 20th-century urban growth transformed ports like Shanghai. Knowing eras helps pick neighborhoods, museums, artifacts to prioritize.

Beijing — politics, museums, palaces; Shanghai — skyline, museums, nightlife; Xi'an — ancient walls, Terracotta Army; Chengdu — panda centers, tea culture; Guilin — karst landscapes; Hong Kong — finance, harbor. Use hubs to connect regional exploration.

Must-sees: sections of the Great Wall (Mutianyu, Jinshanling), the Forbidden City in Beijing, the Terracotta Army near Xi'an, the plateau Potala Palace in Lhasa. Time early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.

From the karst towers around Guilin and Yangshuo to needle forests of Zhangjiajie, the alpine passes in Tibet, and the scenic steps at Huangshan, landscapes reward hikes, boat trips, photography. Plan seasonally: spring and autumn often best for clear skies.

Iconic species include the Giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) at the Chengdu Research Base and high‑plateau species like Tibetan antelope (Pantholops hodgsonii) in remote reserves. Wildlife viewing often requires booked tours and early starts.

Hiking, high‑speed‑rail scenic hops, river cruises on the Yangtze River, cycling old lanes in city hutongs, culinary classes, and photography treks dominate. Book river cruises, long‑distance trains, and specialty guides well in advance for peak seasons.

China's high‑speed rail links most major cities; domestic flights fill longer gaps. Major hubs: Beijing Capital (PEK), Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Guangzhou Baiyun. Use official 12306 app or reputable agents for train tickets; book flights early for holidays.

Most visitors need a tourist visa (L) or approved group permit; e‑visa options vary by nationality. Traveling to Tibet requires additional permits and an organized tour. Always check the latest embassy guidelines before booking.

Regional cuisine is diverse: Sichuan spice in Chengdu, Cantonese dim sum in Guangzhou, Shanghainese seafood, and street stalls in markets like Wangfujing in Beijing. Use local apps like Dianping for top picks; try late‑night market snacks for authenticity.

Basic precautions: beware pickpockets in crowded transit, drink bottled water, carry necessary medications, allow time for altitude acclimatization in Tibet/Himalaya, and use a VPN if you rely on blocked services. Travel insurance with medical evacuation is recommended.

China is a trip of contrasts: logistical planning pays off — pick seasons per region, prebook trains and permits, prioritize a few regions per trip, and savor food, history, and landscapes. Tailor routes to your interests for maximum payoff.