Explore with 111!

Are you planning your first trip to China? Your China travel as a first-timer will be easy, happy and amazing – with our guide.

Choose Your Route

Most first-time visitors start with the Golden Triangle: Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai. Allow at least 8–11 days to cover the highlights without rushing.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Avoid Chinese New Year and National Day holidays if you prefer quieter travel.

Travel Essentials

Check visa requirements, download WeChat and a translation app, and book a licensed local guide for historical sites like the Terracotta Warriors.

Essential tips on how to reduce your trip cost. Save money on stays, transportation, food, and attractions.

Transportation

China's high-speed rail network is fast, comfortable and often cheaper than domestic flights. Book tickets in advance during peak seasons.

Accommodation

Mix boutique hotels with well-rated guesthouses. Staying slightly outside city centers can cut costs significantly.

Food & Attractions

Eat where locals eat – street food and noodle shops offer authentic flavors at low prices. Many temples and parks have free or low-cost entry days.

Traits and characteristics of each zodiac sign, compatibility, and horoscope in 2026.

The 12 Zodiac Animals

Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig – each year is associated with one animal in a 12-year cycle.

2026: Year of the Horse

The Horse symbolizes energy, freedom and adventure – a fitting theme for travelers exploring China in 2026.

Cultural Experiences

Visit temples during Lunar New Year, join a local festival, or explore zodiac-themed art in Xi'an and Beijing museums.

Worshiping ancestors, reuniting with family, celebrating, and dining together – Chinese New Year is the most important festival in China.

When & Where

Lunar New Year 2026 falls in late January to mid-February. Major celebrations happen in Beijing, Xi'an, Guangzhou and rural villages nationwide.

What to Expect

Red lanterns, dragon dances, temple fairs and family reunion dinners. Book transport and hotels early as millions travel during the holiday.

Travel Tips

Some attractions may have adjusted hours. Consider combining festival experiences with classic sightseeing for a unique trip.

Great Wall hiking, Forbidden City, Hutongs rickshaw ride, Terracotta Army, Silk Road journey – here are the must-do experiences for 2026.

1. Hike the Great Wall at Mutianyu or Jinshanling
2. Explore the Forbidden City in Beijing
3. Discover the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an
4. Cruise the Li River in Guilin
5. Walk the Bund in Shanghai
6. Meet giant pandas in Chengdu
7. Visit Zhangjiajie's Avatar mountains
8. Ride the bullet train across China

Our tour consultants can help you combine these into a seamless itinerary.

Ancient towns that have survived centuries, leaving historical legacies that still endure today.

Must-Visit Towns

• Lijiang – Naxi culture and cobblestone streets
• Phoenix (Fenghuang) – riverside stilt houses in Hunan
• Huangyao – hidden gem in Guangxi
• Wuzhen – water town near Shanghai
• Pingyao – Ming-era walled city in Shanxi

Each town offers unique architecture, local cuisine and photo opportunities. We can add any of these to your custom tour.