Is China a safe place to visit? (Tips for Westerners to know it is safe to travel to China)

Is China a safe place to visit?

We’ve been asked this question by many of our western customers who want to know it is safe to travel to China, especially those planning a holiday for 2025 and beyond.

Let’s dive into tips you can use for traveling safely in such a big and busy country.

Is it safe to travel to China right now?

The world is constantly changing, and with shifts in influence in various regions, a prospective traveler might wonder: Is China a safe place to visit? and Is it safe to travel to China in 2025? These are reasonable questions. With our goal to provide peace of mind to our customers, whether they’re planning or participating in one of our tours, we’ve provided this update on whether it is safe to travel to China. 

At any time, planning the best China tour is no small exercise, let alone in the new global operating environment. Not only does visiting China usually involve long distance travel depending on where you come from in the world, it also requires attention to detail to ensure your trip is safe, especially now that it’s vitally important to observe health and safety considerations wherever you are. If you’re wondering is it safe to travel to China, you can relax that previous restrictions that were in place, for example, during COVID restrictions are now well and truly lifted. If 2025/2026 is your year to scratch the travel bug, then now is the time to dream, plan and prepare for your holidays.

In a country with quite different cultural and social expectations from the west, most western travelers find their first experience of China a cultural ‘eye-opener’. Apart from the need to remain alert and aware while on tour, just as they would with any international travel, there are other considerations too, like what’s accepted cultural and social etiquette. 

Personal safety: Is it safe to travel to China?

In terms of personal safety, western travelers can feel that it is safe to travel to China. Actually, there’s a consensus that many of our customers feel China is one of the safest countries in the world for travel; in some cases even safer than their own country. With a crime rate that is comparable to places like Switzerland and Luxembourg, it is easy to understand why people enjoying a China tour can do so in the knowledge that crime is unlikely to be an issue.

That said, as with all international travel, tourists can expect to apply the same caution in China as they would wherever they travel in the world.

We recommend you are mindful with personal belongings, keeping cash, credit cards and passports safe and close to hand. It’s wise to have copies of your cards and passport too and to keep these separate from the originals.

What about the crowds? Is China a safe place to visit?

At busy locations (and let’s face it, just about everywhere is busy in China!), be aware of pickpockets and beggars who tend to work in an organized fashion and target unsuspecting foreign tourists. 

Generally tapping into your sympathy vote, it’s very easy to part with cash to one person, only to find yourself inundated suddenly by many others immediately afterwards. A word of advice: resist the temptation to be lured by what is an act in most cases. 

Travelers can be reassured by the security cameras which are prevalent in China. These alone make it difficult for crime to occur. However, if the worst does happen and you have something stolen, be sure to speak with your personal tour guide immediately. They will know exactly who to contact and where to go. We recommend notifying the nearest Foreign Affairs Branch of the Public Security Bureau. Effectively operating as the local police, you will be required to complete a formal report for your loss. You’ll need this in any case to assist with any travel insurance claim you make. 

Of course, if you believe something has been stolen from your hotel or the vehicle in which you’re traveling, your ChinaTours.com guide will be there to help out with taking immediate action to retrieve your items. Our team is committed to taking care of every detail and should you fall prey to thieves, we will assist you through this process.

Keep your travel cash close (and real)

The Chinese government continues to improve the quality of western travelers’ experience by making China a safe place to visit. One area that has demanded attention is the trade in counterfeit cash notes.

While there are many genuine business owners and employees who make China safe and enjoyable to visit, like anywhere, there are scammers and con artists too.

Most people travel with cards, however, some cash is a necessity, particularly for tipping guides and drivers, or if you are traveling to more remote regions. For this reason, it’s wise to exchange money at reputable outlets such as banks. You can even do this prior to departure. 

Be aware that counterfeit cash is common in China and many retail outlets have facilities for checking note authenticity at the point of sale. If you’re unlucky enough to end up with a counterfeit note (or notes!), it literally is a waste of your money.

Of course, there is also the option of paying like a local. Just about everyone and many businesses in China use WeChat Pay. Foreigners can also take advantage of Alipay Tour Pass. Making cashless and cardless purchases via one of these platforms is an ideal way to buy with confidence and feel it is safe to visit China.

Traveling with a guide can be very beneficial as it provides trustworthy eyes and ears on the ground for you. They understand the culture and know what the challenges are. While you’re traveling together, your guide is focused on making your travel experience enjoyable, memorable, and safe.

Transport safety: Is China safe to visit on the roads?

Traveling by road can be a challenge in China with road accidents a major cause of fatalities and injuries for locals. Be especially cautious when crossing roads. It is well known that red lights and traffic rules are often ignored by local drivers.  

One of the many benefits of traveling with an experienced China tour operator is the peace of mind that comes from having knowledgeable, local guides who are with you for the duration of the tour. With guides accompanied by a driver, western travelers can be transported between sights with ease – and without having to worry about navigating through challenging traffic conditions.

Another bonus of guided tours is baggage security. Instead of carrying unwieldy luggage between sights because of safety concerns, ChinaTours.com customers enjoy the freedom of being able to leave their belongings in a secure environment that is monitored and looked after by our carefully selected drivers. On a small group or private tour, you can relax knowing you can have complete confidence in the trustworthiness of your tour team.

Safety and security in China

Apart from personal safety and the precautionary considerations associated with any travel, many western travelers query whether it is safe to visit China when political changes occur internationally. This is a legitimate question, particularly when travel advice is amended by governments due to shifts in policy. 

We recognize the concerns some western travelers may have, however, unfortunately, independent China tour operators like ChinaTours.com have no influence over government policies or the political position adopted by different countries. However, regardless of politics, ChinaTours.com will continue to provide the highest possible standard of service always to make your tour with us memorable and safe. Our mission is to provide our customers with an experience of real China and beautiful travel memories while building important bridges of understanding between different cultures.

Top tips to make it safe to travel to China

We recommend people who want to book a China tour should follow the same guidelines they would for travel elsewhere in the world:

• Consult with the relevant travel advisory authority in your country of origin for current travel advice to China (we’ve provided a shortlist below).
• Liaise with your tour operator and ask for clarification about transport arrangements in the country, personal safety measures, and care of belongings while on tour, and any other concerns you might have.
• Obtain travel insurance to account for any unforeseen loss, theft, medical or other emergencies.
• Notify your government’s travel department, bank and family members about your travel plans.
• Have a contingency plan in place for emergencies, including the contact number for your country’s embassy in China.
• Keep copies of your passport and cards separate to these items in the event they are lost or stolen.

Other safety considerations for a visit to China

From time to time reports of scams directed at foreign tourists emerge, with many of these based on offers of a teahouse service or massage. Foreigners have been duped into paying large amounts of money and even threatened physically. We encourage all travelers to consult with their local guide about the best places to dine and enjoy optional tour activities in every destination they visit. Always raise any concerns or questions about a particular offer or product with your guide first before making a selection. 

Want to learn more about how to enjoy the safest and most enriching travel in China? Reach out to our tour design team. We can answer all your questions.

Australian Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade: www.smarttraveller.gov.au

British Foreign & Commonwealth Office: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice 

Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs & International Trade: http://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories 

New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade: www.safetravel.govt.nz 

US State Department: http://travel.state.gov

Thinking about booking a China tour in 2025 or 2026? Why wait? With creatively designed tours encompassing over 20 destinations in China, our small group, private and custom tours consistently receive five star reviews from international adventurers just like you. The ChinaTours.com team is waiting to help create your next travel memory, so enquire now.

China tours for seniors does not mean coaches crammed full of people who are herded from one tourist destination to the next.

On the contrary, as a growing cohort of sophisticated travelers globally, you’re more likely to discover China tours for seniors – or tours to any destination really – as one joined by savvy explorers. A far cry from the budget backpacker traveling on a shoestring, seniors on tour are prepared to invest in an experience, while still expecting value for money. Above all, they seek a genuine experience of the country they’re visiting – but they want to do it with ease.

Having helped thousands of seniors discover the real China, we compiled our list of top things you should know if you’re searching for China tours for seniors.

Ready for adventure?

Let’s get going!

#1 Get the right help organizing your China tour

China is a different kind of travel destination.

Getting around can be a challenge, even for experienced travelers. That’s why we recommend not trying to organize everything yourself!

If you’re someone who likes the certainty of knowing where you’re going when traveling in new countries, it’s wise to get help planning and organizing your tour. With insider knowledge to ‘how things work’, this can make all the difference to whether you enjoy your China tour or not.

Finessing every detail and ensuring you tick all your wishlist boxes is a worthwhile investment. Why? Because for most people, traveling to China is a once off experience. Leaving your tour to chance can result in disappointment and make you feel things weren’t quite what you expected.

If you’re organizing a China tour for seniors, regardless of whether it’s a private tour for a couple or a group tour for twelve lifetime friends, be sure to seek out the right guidance and support. Traveling with the peace of mind that every detail has been taken care of will make for a more relaxed and enjoyable time on tour.

#2 Access the best in planes, trains and automobiles

As China has developed domestically, in country travel options have expanded. New trains, planes and roads have been accompanied by grand new train stations, airports and highways. While this makes getting around easy, logistics can prove a challenge if you’re not familiar with the territory.

As a function of the sheer number of people, most airports in China are incredibly busy, as are the expansive new train stations found along China’s growing high speed train network. If you think you might feel nervous navigating your check in and arrivals, you’re not alone. Even the locals can feel overwhelmed.

The good news is that travel in China can be a breeze. Simply make sure your tour has the option of assisted check in and greeting on arrival. Helping to smooth out the process at these key points of your China tour will save you time, money, and angst.

#3 Travel with a local guide

With many seniors having traveled widely, they’re often curious to learn everything they can about a destination. Hello, local guide!

With deep knowledge of the modern and ancient history of their city, together with an enthusiasm for the best local eats and shopping, travel with a local guide will make a China tour for seniors something special. In fact, check just about any tour review and the feedback nearly always refers to the guide.

What you really want to know when you book your tour is:

Does your guide speak English?
Will your guide meet you on arrival?
Will they help with check in and check out?
Will your guide help you board your train and plane?
Will your local guide help you spy the fake from the authentic local pottery piece you just have to buy?
Will they take you to their favourite local restaurant for the ultimate traditional local dish?
Will you have 24/7 access to your guide?
Will your guide greet you with a smile?

Individually, these might seem like small things, but together they all add up when you’re traveling through China.

#4 Sleep in comfort at centrally located hotels

After a day on your feet exploring the sights, there’s nothing better than a comfortable night’s sleep in a clean, quality hotel. Yes, you could rough it if you really want to, but why would you when there are ample alternatives.

Accommodating the travelers who appreciate being cared for while on their China tour, four and five star international brand hotel chains have you covered. With many centrally located and meeting accessibility requirements, these hotels can make a China tour for seniors more enjoyable and relaxing. Instead of feeling like a hotel, you’ll feel like you’re comfortably taken care of while you’re away from home.

When booking your China tour for seniors, ask about the hotels on offer and whether they are located in close proximity to sights to avoid spending unnecessary hours traveling between locations. Check the hotel reviews too. Travelers opinions count and it’s good to know others have enjoyed positive experiences.

#5 Travel at sensible times

Have you ever noticed tours often schedule travel times between destinations at the most inconvenient times?

Pre-dawn departures backed up by late night arrivals can leave you feeling tired and jaded when you should be enjoying every minute of the day. The last thing you want is to feel you’re being hustled into a sheep pen by your tour guide.

If you’re planning a China tour for seniors, look for one with a sensible itinerary you can live with. For example, while afternoon flights might come at a slightly higher cost, there are benefits. It means traveling at a more relaxed pace, fully enjoying the day, and creating travel memories you hold onto instead of ones you’d rather forget.

In the same vein, consider whether you want choices when it comes to meals. With food being one of the great joys of travel, think about whether you really want to be shepherded into an all-you-can-eat lunch or dinner designed for tourists. This is a feature of many tours but this approach deprives you of choices and opportunities. China’s cuisine is diverse and part of your travel adventure should include the chance to experience the best food on offer. Whether you’re after the most delicious dumplings, finest Peking duck, or sizzling Szechuan hotpot, check in with your tour company about how you can experience China’s best food.

#6 Look for accessibility features

The Chinese hold their elders in high regard, so it’s no surprise that as their awareness of the needs of Western travelers grows, so too has investment in accessibility features in high traffic locations.

If your mobility isn’t what it once was, no need to be concerned while touring in China. You will find dedicated accessibility restrooms, access ramps, and assisted boarding and disembarking from planes, trains, and vehicles. And if you feel the heat or cold, air-conditioning can be adjusted in vehicles and hotel rooms for a more comfortable experience.

When booking your tour, check in with your travel consultant about the provisions made for people who need accessibility assistance. Be specific and clear about what you need so you’re not left stranded or missing out on sights while on tour.

#7 Make sure you can get help on tour

Anyone who’s ever traveled will know there’s always the potential for things to go awry. While this might be manageable in familiar territory, in China, dealing with issues that arise unexpectedly can prove more of a challenge.

When booking your China tour, particularly for more mature or elderly travelers, confirm whether you’ll have an in country contact. While 24/7 access to your local guide in every destination is ideal, it’s good to have a local company contact too. That way, if you want to add on travel or make changes due to unforeseen circumstances, you can do so with ease. Together with the appropriate level of travel insurance, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing there are measures in place, such as 24/7 Traveler care, to help manage while you’re on the road.

Book ahead for China tours

If you’re planning a China tour in 2025 or 2026, now is the time to start thinking about it, particularly if you’re traveling as a senior. Rather than taking a chance on last minute specials that skimp on comfort, plan ahead so you know every detail is taken care of.

ChinaTours.com designs and creates beautiful travel memories. Specializing in small group, private, and custom tours, including China tours for seniors, ChinaTours.com prides itself on taking care of every detail. Paying special attention to travelers with accessibility needs, we’ll do all things possible to make your China tour comfortable and manageable. We are now accepting bookings for the 2025 or 2026 travel season and encourage seniors to book early. Enquire now.

With 56 plus ethnic groups (including the main Han group) and a landmass spanning 9,600,000 square kilometers, a China culture tour is not for the faint of heart.

Add to this a history of empires, dynasties, and intrigue and it’s easy to understand why a single China culture tour is probably not enough to gain a deep understanding of what makes China simultaneously so diverse and unique. In fact, contemplating how you’ll ‘see it all’ on a single tour can be overwhelming.

But if your heart is set on a culture tour in China, and you want to avoid any of the typical pitfalls, then consider these insider tips for planning and organizing your travel.

#1 Research well: make a China culture tour bucket list

Unless you have unlimited time and budget, research in advance of any China tour is essential. A good place to start is by making your own China culture tour bucket list.

It’s a vast country and there’s simply so much ground to cover, so if you can refine your list before even looking into tour options, you’ll know what meets your needs.

If you’re a first-timer to China, there’s every chance you’ll want to take in at least Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai. As China’s modern and ancient capitals, there is so much on offer. Culture hungry? You’ll find enough here to last lifetimes.

Beijing is home to the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, easy access to the Great Wall of China, Temple of Heaven, Confucius Temple and Imperial College. Modern history is available too. Explore Tiananmen Square and Beijing’s Olympic stadium and pool, the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube.

In Xi’an, the city’s more relaxed style is reflected in its culture and history. Adorned by red lanterns, Xi’an’s appeal is also found in the famous Terracotta Warriors and Horses. Xi’an’s City Wall is a step back in time. Restored to excellent condition, it allows locals and travelers to experience what it must have been like to look out over the city hundreds of years ago.

Shanghai is the quintessential modern city, but don’t be deceived. History abounds here too. Take in the Bund, Shanghai History Museum, Yuyuan Gardens, the French Concession and Xin Tian Di (New Spot). Get your fill of shopping at Nanjing Road and the Yu Garden Bazaar, where you can experience the contrast of modern and market wares.

Traveling to Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai, you’ll find ample opportunity for insights into China’s culture. The only question to ask is how deep do you want to go?

#2 Plan ahead: travel, tickets, and accommodation

Planning ahead, and getting help to do so, is a wise idea. That means booking travel, tickets, and accommodation well before you arrive. In fact, entry to China is contingent showing where you’re headed.

If you’re not a details person, planning a China culture tour is not the place to start developing those skills! Our tip? Talk to someone who knows how things work. Not only are experienced travel consultants a wealth of knowledge, they understand how to bring all the pieces of a tour together so it flows beautifully from start to finish.

#3 Enrich your China culture tour: travel with a local guide

While you’re on the ground in China, a bilingual local guide is like the glue that binds all the elements together. Knowledgeable on all things culture, history, and philosophy – and a personal connection to local people – a guide enriches a China culture tour in a way that simply can’t be achieved by referring to a guide book. They can help navigate between venues, recommend local favorite restaurants, assist with entry to sights, and much more.

As part of your research, check out tour reviews from other like-minded culture lovers. You can very quickly see where tour companies and guides are delivering.

Choose your own travel style

Whether you’re an experienced traveler or novice, it pays to know the style of travel that suits you.

Do you like to travel solo and enjoy maximum freedom and flexibility? Maybe a private or custom tour is your best option.

Do you enjoy meeting new people on your travels? Perhaps a small group tour is the way to go. Providing the opportunity to engage with others and share the adventure, group tours are more cost effective too.

More experienced adventurers may discount the idea of a group tour, but with the chance to mix with others, and connect with local people too, for those seeking a China culture tour, it’s the ideal way to experience more.

Of course, there are many more ways and destinations in China where culture can be found. From the highest peaks in Tibet to the most remote natural landscapes of unique places like Zhangjiajie and Dunhuang, China’s culture is available for exploration and experience. You may find – as many do – that one China culture tour isn’t enough.

China’s culture and history are rich and diverse and a single tour won’t reveal everything there is. As an experienced China culture tour operator, ChinaTours.com understands how to design and craft tours that meet with the specific needs of each traveler. Whether you seek a custom or private tour or are happy to travel in one of the small group tours (maximum 12 travelers), we understand that what we do influences your travel experience. We also know we’re part of your travel memories. We take our role very seriously and are committed to creating beautiful travel memories for our guests. If you’re ready to enjoy China’s rich history, we’d love an opportunity to work with you to create a travel adventure you’ll remember long after you arrive home.

Searching for the best China tours for solo travelers? Are you a single traveler looking for China tour options? Or are you an experienced solo traveler who has China at the top of your ‘must visit’ list? It doesn’t matter what your motivation is, solo travelers – specifically, single travelers researching options for solo travel in China – need look no further. In this article, we provide all the insights needed to plan and book your China tour as a single.

For those traveling on their own, China is a surprisingly safe destination. As China has opened up to the world, there has been steadily increasing comfort with international visitors, including those who opt to travel on their own. In fact, if you are traveling on your own, you’re likely to experience even more hospitality from locals who want to make international travelers feel welcome in this fascinating country.

Notwithstanding the challenges presented by traveling, living, or studying in a country where the language and culture are not familiar, both expats and adventurers say that in China they are happy to head out at night and use public transport without concern for their personal safety. Security measures at travel facilities, like subway stations, airports, and bus transfer centers mean solo travelers need not worry about being left stranded without being able to access help if needed. This, coupled with a police presence in all major cities, and a strong culture of law and order – guns are banned – makes traveling solo or part of a small group tour a real option for holidaying on your own.

Is it possible to visit China on your own?

Even seasoned travelers may wonder about the possibility of visiting China if they are traveling solo. In response to the question ‘Is it possible to visit China on your own?’, you can be confident in the resounding yes that is the answer. Just because you do not have a travel buddy or prefer to travel on your own, does not mean you should miss out on all that China has to offer.

As a destination, China delivers so much. Rich in culture and history, it is a country that is also appreciated for its diverse and stunning landscapes. From the expansive outlook from the Great Wall to the mesmerizing order of the Longji rice terraces to the misty peaks of Zhangjiajie, there is quite literally a world of choice for China solo travelers if you are hungry for enriching travel experiences.

And of course, beyond landscapes there is plenty to entice even the greatest skeptic. Virtually every destination has its own must-visit historic sites, popular attractions, spectacular museums, ancient towns, local markets, unusual cultural and creative products, brilliant shows and performances, tasty Chinese food, as well as unique customs and traditions. Indeed, it is the unusual blend of experiences that has many ChinaTours.com guests commenting that not only has their understanding of China changed since visiting, they too have changed. We commonly hear that after their small group tour, which allows close interaction with bilingual guides who love their role as ambassadors, our guests often gain a deep appreciation of China and its people and culture. Others are captivated by the evident expansion of the super fast train network that brings cities closer to each other through rail travel exceeding 300 kilometers per hour. Foodies are taken in by the variety of cuisine to be found in every corner of the country, while night owls love to take advantage of the bustling ‘night time economy’ that caters to China’s giant population, which seems to love life after a day of work. Night time markets, along with a variety of cultural shows, sports, and exhibitions, mean that single travelers need not ever feel alone.

What hurdles could I face when traveling on my own in China?

Now while there is no end of choice for what to do in China if you are a solo traveler, it does pay to keep in mind certain things. Language of course can be a real barrier, and while many students have completed high school or graduate studies in English speaking countries, China is a big place, and in many locations, you may discover that very little – or even no English – is spoken. In thriving cities, this may not present a problem, but in more far flung locations, getting around on your own could be difficult; a fact which highlights the importance and value of a good guide. Keep in mind that signs for streets, addresses, bus stops, subway stations are mostly in Chinese and Pinyin resulting in many mistranslated ‘Chinglish signs’ that end up being very confusing for foreign visitors. 

Language barriers are one thing, but by far and away the biggest headache for foreign visitors is sourcing tickets to just about anything. Think here of any attraction that comes to mind. While some attractions and sites permit walk-in visitors, the majority don’t, and herein lies the problem. Visitors – both domestic and international – must book and purchase tickets online using their personal details well in advance of the planned visit date. For the main attractions, like the Forbidden City for example, this is mostly completed through the social media platform WeChat (and even this process can be difficult!). Vendors that allow you to book this way have a custom integration whereby bookings are made and payments processed. Be aware though some vendors don’t even permit international travelers with foreign passports to book directly with them, making it extremely difficult to secure tickets. So if you’re planning to try your luck and make your own bookings, you must first download the WeChat app. If the vendor doesn’t have a purchase function for international visitors on WeChat, then you could try the vendor’s website. However, nine out of ten vendors will not have an English translation version, or they will have an ‘application process’, both of which present further barriers to ticket purchase. In short, your best bet to avoid disappointment if you plan to buy your own tickets to anything while traveling on your own is to engage the assistance of a bilingual guide. That way you won’t spend precious travel time sorting out arrangements that could create problems on your long awaited vacation.

What about booking tickets during peak season?

During any peak season, but particularly Chinese public holidays and school holidays, it is a safe bet you won’t be able to book and purchase tickets successfully. Tickets can sell out in minutes, mainly due to ticket numbers being limited. You may be able to secure train or air tickets by paying more for business class seats, but there is no chance at all for obtaining admission tickets to a tourist site or attraction. Many travelers to Beijing have already experienced the frustration and disappointment of not being able to visit the Forbidden City because they did not understand the best way to securely purchase entry tickets to this world famous historical site.

Similarly, many international travelers have had issues at train stations, where foreign passport holders must obtain their train tickets from the ticket office. Unfortunately, it really isn’t as simple as just showing up and buying a train ticket even if it has been purchased online.

What’s the best solution for solo travelers in China?

As China tour experts catering to international travelers, our very best recommendation for solo travelers is a small group tour that allows for time to explore on your own. There are many benefits to small group tours: Reduced costs, ease of arrangements (especially with ticket purchase and collection), guidance from an enthusiastic local who loves their city, your own room (no sharing on ChinaTours.com holidays), and personalized attention. 

Our small group tours also provide ample opportunity to explore on your own. We do not include lunches or dinners in our tour fees, meaning there is plenty of time to take in all that a destination has to offer. We think it’s the perfect balance of guidance and ‘free time’ on tour.

And if connecting with like minded adventurers is high on your values, a small group tour is the perfect platform by which to make friends from around the world. With ChinaTours.com, you have the option to stay with the same group or merge with other groups as you move from one destination to the next. In the ChinaTours.com inspired world of creating beautiful travel memories, flexibility is the ticket to a truly special holiday.

What else should you know about ChinaTours.com small group tours? Here’s our list of benefits, if you need more convincing:

• Limited passenger numbers (maximum of 12 per tour)
• Scheduled departure and arrival dates
• Guaranteed departure even if there’s only one passenger
• Superior and luxury hotel accommodation choices
• Flexibility around meals (enjoy a hotel breakfast and choose your own lunch and dinner)
• Relaxed travel times (no early starts)
• Domestic flights and land transfers included
• Exceptional bilingual speaking guides who will introduce you to the culture, history, and food of every destination you visit.

What’s not to love?

Are you ready to travel solo to China and want to learn more about your options? Now could be the perfect time to get in touch.

Learn more about things to do in China here: https://www.chinatours.com/travel-guide/  

Whether you’re a savvy solo traveler or a first time visitor to China looking for your options as a single traveler, doing your research is the best way to make the most of your vacation in this amazing country. Solo travel for international visitors is safe and fun in China. How do we know? We offer custom tours for people who don’t want their travel solo status to stop them from seeing all the very best China has to offer. 

Our friendly team can provide all the information you need on travel costs, including hotels, tours, tickets, food, and experiences from people who truly care about your holiday. Talk to the ChinaTours.com team. We’re travelers too, and we’re committed to helping you create beautiful travel memories that endure long after you’ve arrived home. We welcome online enquiries via direct contact, with responses delivered within 24 hours

When is the best time of year to visit China? As an experienced China travel agency, it’s a question we’re asked a lot, particularly by western travelers who are visiting China for the first time.

The challenge with knowing when is the best time to go to China is narrowing the answer down to something simple. This is because there are so many things to consider: Seasons, destinations and highlights on your bucket list, personal interests (are you fascinated by history, but not a fan of big cities), how much time you have, and of course, your budget.

In the interest of keeping things simple, we’ve put together this must-read guide on the best time to go to China. It’s perfect for anyone who’s in the ‘plan and research mode’ for a China tour.

As any good travel guide will tell you, an important principle for travel – no matter where you’re off to – is that preparation is key. So dive into our latest blog about the best time to travel to China. That way, when it comes time to book and fly, you’ll be ready to bring those travel dreams to life.

Choose your season: Deciding the best time of year to visit China

There is no one best time to go to China, however the most common advice from those who know is to plan your travel for April, May, September and October. Why? Well, these are the most enjoyable from a weather and season perspective.

Spring falls in April and May (and March), making these months ideal times to visit China. Equally appealing for seasonal travel are September and October, when it is Fall. As the months that land either side of the super busy, crowded Summer, planning your holiday to align with these times will make for comfortable travel weather.

In practical terms, it means avoiding the bitter cold of Winter, which is a feature of high traffic destinations like Beijing  or Tibet , or bypassing the searing heat of places like Turpan or even Shanghai with its more humid climate. If you’re uncomfortable in weather extremes and don’t enjoy being either too hot or cold, choosing the best season to travel is an important consideration.

Those less bothered by variations in weather might take their chances and brave the cold during the heart of winter or the enormous crowds of domestic and foreign travelers during high summer. However, if it’s your first time to China, it’s wise to factor in your tolerance for these elements as they can impact negatively on the overall enjoyment of your travel experience.

When is it not the best time to go to China?

While we’re on the subject of timing your travel, we knew it wouldn’t be right to leave out important details about when it is not the best time to go to China.

Certain public holidays have a well-earned reputation for serious spikes in domestic travel. Among the key dates to avoid a visit to China are Labour Day (from 1 to 3 May), National Day (from 1 to 7 October), and the Spring Festival. Chinese New Year usually begins on a day during the last ten days of January and continues until the middle of February. The holiday lasts seven days, however, we recommend avoiding the entire period, including three days prior to, and after, this important Chinese celebration (a total of 13 days).

If you plan a China tour during this time, expect to pay more for any mode of transport, and to be competing with locals on every front. Western travelers who like their space and who aren’t familiar with the crowded nature of travel in China, may just find their travel experience is less like a holiday and more like a crash course in survival.

Again, each individual should be clear about their tolerance for these factors and decide what’s right for them. Asking for advice from others who’ve already done a China tour, or reading reviews , is a great way to find out what does and doesn’t work.

What’s the best time to visit China highlights?

China is definitely a country rich in bucket list highlights. Between the Great Wall, Terracotta Army, giant pandas, and some incredible natural wonders, it’s hard enough deciding what to see, let alone pinpointing the ideal time to see them all.

With a view to making your China tour planning easy, here’s our essential China highlights list we recommend to customers. The culmination of over a decade of research, design, planning and delivery of thousands of China tours, it makes an excellent guide for anyone wanting tips for the best time to travel to China, identifying what to see and when.

Of course, there are many more destinations in China  than those listed here, however if you’re wanting a ‘best of’ experience in select destinations, you’re guaranteed to find more than enough to impress from this list.

What’s the best time of year to visit China for festivals

There are literally hundreds of festivals reflecting every conceivable interest and the 55 ethnic minority cultures in China. Be sure to do your research and ask your China travel agency to advise how you can integrate festival time into your tour itinerary.

Pandas, river cruises, the Great Wall and more: How will I know if it’s the best time to travel to China?

Clearly the decision around the timing of your China tour isn’t completely straightforward, which is why it’s worth considering a tour with a theme.

If you think a theme tour might just tick your China travel box, booking the best time to go will not only enhance your experience, there’s a better chance your vacation will make for beautiful travel memories.

Recognizing there’s a no-one-size-fits-all solution to creating the perfect tour package, we’ve devised options that meet the specific interests of our customers. Choose from tours perfect for families, iconic highlights like the Great Wall and Silk Road, or amazing natural icons such as the Yangtze River.

Explore these options for ideas.

Each traveler has their own preference for holiday experiences, so before embarking on the holiday of a lifetime with a trip to China, spend time researching and asking questions to be sure that both how and when you travel meets your expectations.

If you’re contemplating a tour, why not simplify the big decisions about the best time to travel to China. Having served customers from around the world, including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, we understand it can be hard knowing what to see and when. Research, plan, and explore the options available in our selection of best China tours, or create your own custom experience with the help of travel consultants who know and care about every detail. We welcome online enquiries via direct contact  and respond within 24 hours.

Booking China tours from Australia is now easy, affordable, and fun with travel restrictions well and truly a thing of the past. After all that dreaming about travel during lockdowns, we can take a collective deep breath and think about where we’d like to visit. China offers so many diverse options in terms of landscapes, culture, history, and highlights that you could be forgiven for thinking it’s too hard to choose. That’s where a travel expert on China tours from Australia can help.

A remarkable 800,000 Australians make the trek to China annually, and although numbers may have dropped during the pandemic era, as a destination, China still sits among the top five countries to visit. It seems Australians can’t get enough of this land of history, culture, and amazing cuisine.

With that in mind, we figure, there’s nothing like researching your destination, which is why it pays to research the best selection of China tours from Australia.

Check out these top tips (from our very own CEO, no less!) for turning your holiday dreams into travel reality.

Tours to China from Australia: Bring a little DIY to the mix

One thing travel restrictions taught world travelers is that we should never take the flexibility and opportunity to travel for granted. In effect, being unable to travel made us want to travel more. Australians are no exceptions to this rule. Why? Because Australians, having gained a reputation as holidaymakers who are unphased by long haul flights across oceans and continents, are an adventuresome lot. Our research shows a spike in interest around tours to China from Australia, and that can only mean one thing: Australians are jumping back on planes again.

Australians are a resourceful bunch and more inclined to take travel matters into their own hands – and that’s a good thing. In fact, we recommend it to our customers when it comes to booking international flights.

While travel arrangements were previously made through travel agents, technology advances mean you can design and create a tailored travel adventure online. Although it’s wise to connect with a travel agency or tour operator on the ground in China to guarantee the best experience, there’s no reason you can’t book your own flights. That’s right – DIY flights booked online once you have your tour travel dates.

Insider tip: We recommend going directly to the airline website rather than using third party platforms, as this keeps fees to a minimum and it’s where the best deals are found. As a customer, when it comes to flights, the power is very much in your hands. In the interest of encouraging travel, airlines are offering expectional flight deals that make any tours to China from Australia highly accessible.

Bespoke tours: Why not enjoy something a bit fancy?

Regular Australians are generally unaffected and perhaps not so inclined to opt for something a bit fancy, however they do love good value. 

What we’re seeing is a trend in savvy western travelers doing their due diligence on tours to China from Australia.  They now expect to connect directly with a local in-country tour operator or travel agency. They have also come to expect more flexibility, freedom, and customized travel experiences that allow them to connect with locals, learn about culture, and sample cuisine (that maybe they had a hand in preparing). 

That means goodbye boring ‘vanilla’ itineraries and hello bespoke travel adventures. 

As a company operating tours for well over a decade, we’ve seen a growing appetite from our Australian customers who recognize good value and want to book private and custom China tours. 

Apart from giving Australians more of the travel experience they really want, it also means you can tailor your holiday to include unique excursions and unusual destinations that don’t make it into standard ho-hum tours available through many tour operators.

Insider’s tip: Research the experiences you want in the destinations you’re visiting in China and talk to your in China travel agency or tour operator about how these can be incorporated into the itinerary. This is the kind of vacation we love designing and creating (did we say we love taking care of the details?), so don’t hold back. After all, by the time you land in Beijing, your China highlights bucket list will probably be a mile long.

How to pick the best China tours from Australia

An online search for the best China tours from Australia will yield literally thousands of results, so if you’re a first time visitor, reconnecting with your family, or even if you’re a returning adventurer, how do you make sense of them all and feel confident in your decision?

We’ve already talked about the importance of research and this certainly applies when it comes to selecting the best China tours from Australia. 

First, you must decide what level of travel you’re after. If budget is your main consideration, there are ample choices. However, if budget is less of a concern, and you value flexibility and choice, then it’s a good idea to dive into the detail of what’s really being offered. 

Be sure to check the important information and terms and conditions. Consider whether land transfers are included, the support provided by guides, if you’ll be forced into commission-based shopping stops, and the location of hotels.

Specialization is the hallmark of an exceptional China travel provider, but what most customers don’t realize is that many operators don’t look for opportunities to deliver unique experiences. It could be a cultural perception that differentiation isn’t appreciated, however this is exactly what the savvy Australian traveler wants. A taste of real China by immersing themselves in it.

This is the very reason we recommend searching for a tour company that really knows China – and truly cares about your experience. Approaching travel plans this way means you’re more likely to discover a holiday that is more than a mediocre ‘vanilla’ substitute. It’s okay to expect value for money, and even to want something a bit special; it just shouldn’t come at a cost to the quality of your holiday. 

Once you’ve picked a tour, find out if it can be taken as a private guided tour and what the price difference is. While small group tours are wonderful (we only travel with a maximum of 12 people), a private tour following the same itinerary offers even more flexibility.

Insider tip: If you only plan on visiting China once – do your research and book a bespoke tour, tailored exactly to your interests, budget, and travel days. Regardless of whether you’re traveling solo, as a family, or group of friends, this is a great way to travel your way.

China visa? Yes, you’ll need one for China tour packages from Australia

China is a country where a visa is required for Australian travelers under certain conditions. As at November 2024 when this article was published, China has included Australia in its visa waiver program from 1 July 2024. If you hold an Australian passport you can enter China for up to 15 days for business, tourism, family, or transit purposes. Note that diplomatic and official passport holders must still apply for a visa.

Don’t be overwhelmed by the application process. If you’ve booked a tour, travel agencies like our own can help by providing the items required for your China visa, namely an invitation letter and related travel information such as destinations, duration of stay, and hotels. Whether it’s small group, private, or custom China tour packages, from Australia, entry into China will mean a little legwork to meet all the requirements.

Be sure to allow plenty of time and connect with your local China Embassy, Consulate, or Visa Application Center to complete your application by providing photos, the relevant form and other supporting documentation.

Insider’s tip: If you’re confused about what’s required for your China visa, or want to understand where the application process fits in terms of timing for your travel arrangements, ask for help. The travel agency you’re dealing with will be up to date with changes that occur, which affect visa applications for international visitors.

More reasons to start planning your China tour from Australia

Here are some other great reasons to choose a specialized local tour operator or travel agent in China if you’re considering a China tour from the Australia:

• More choice of tour itineraries, including tours focused on specific themes, interests, and destinations. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in local culture.

• Different tour types, including private tours, small group tours, and customized tours. 

•  Value for money. As a direct sale, you avoid unnecessary fees associated with booking through a traditional travel agent. That means more holiday spending cash.

• Responsiveness and communication. With a focus on serving the western traveler, travel agencies like ChinaTours.com engage travel consultants with an excellent command of English, and with a strong service ethic, response times from enquiries are typically very quick.

• Quality service – As China’s tourism industry has grown, so too have expectations around service. Before booking, check out the online reviews of companies offering tours, to see the comments made about the company’s travel consultants, local guides, and drivers. You’ll find uncensored opinions and they are a great way to find out how well customers were taken care of by their tour operator or travel agency.

• Quality hotels, centrally located – One day in a busy city like Beijing and you’ll soon appreciate the value of a quality hotel that is centrally located. A deceptively large amount of your valuable tour time can disappear traveling between sights, so research your tour and find out where the hotels are located relative to stops in the daily itinerary. Be aware that interpretations of four and five star may differ between providers, so ask about the hotel partners too. International hotel brands with consistent standards are always a safe bet.

• Industry recognition – Traveling with a company with international industry memberships provides peace of mind, especially for Australian travelers planning a China holiday. Industry bodies like the Pacific Asia Travel Association, American Society of Travel Advisors, and the China Association of Travel, provide credibility, as well as a point of reference if you are concerned about service standards.

Stuck for China tour ideas? Start your research with this ‘best of’ recommendations from the ChinaTours.com team.

If you’re researching China tours from Australia, why not simplify the big decisions about how to plan and organize a tour that maximizes your time and budget. Having served customers from around the world, including Australia for well over a decade, we know what savvy travelers from the West want on their holidays. Research, plan, and explore the options available in our selection of best China tours, or create your own custom experience with the help of travel consultants who know and care about every detail. We welcome online enquiries via direct contact and respond within 24 hours.