China Travel Guide
Embark on an unforgettable journey through China, a country where ancient history and modern marvels coexist harmoniously.
Officially known as the People's Republic of China, it is located in East Asia and has a population of approximately 1.4 billion people. Mandarin is the official language. The capital, Beijing, is a treasure trove of cultural and historical landmarks, while cities like Shanghai seamlessly blend colonial-era architecture with a contemporary skyline.
China’s history spans thousands of years, marked by powerful dynasties such as the Qin, Han, Tang, and Ming. The Great Wall, initially constructed during the Qin Dynasty, symbolises this enduring legacy. The Terracotta Army in Xi’an, created to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife, further illustrates its rich historical tapestry.
Visitors are captivated by China’s blend of ancient history and modern achievements. Iconic landmarks like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Terracotta Warriors offer glimpses into its past, while dynamic cities like Shanghai and Beijing highlight its contemporary vibrancy. China’s diverse landscapes like the mighty Yangtze River, provide breathtaking natural beauty.
We've outlined some general information that may be helpful to you when planning your next holiday to China.
Time Zone & Currency
Despite encompassing five geographical time zones, the entire country follows a single time zone and is eight hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). The currency in China is the Chinese Yulan.
Weather in China
China's weather varies: the north has cold winters and hot summers, central regions are humid with mild winters, and the south enjoys a year-round tropical climate with an April-to-September rainy season.
Reading For Your Trip To China
Falling Leaves by Adeline Yen Mah
Empress Orchid by Anchee Min
Empire of the Sun by J.G. Ballard
Best time to go to China
The best time to visit China is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to early November). These seasons offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures, ideal for exploring outdoor attractions and enjoying the vibrant natural scenery.
Top Tourist Attractions In China
8 interesting facts about China
In Chinese culture, the number 8 is regarded as the luckiest. To reflect this, we’ve highlighted eight fascinating facts about China that might inspire you to explore this remarkable country.
Top 10 highlights of China
From the awe-inspiring Great Wall to the ancient wonders of Xi’an’s Terracotta Army, discover the top experiences and landmarks of China.
Food and drink in China
Chinese cuisine in its homeland is a vibrant and diverse blend of flavours, textures, and traditions, offering a culinary experience far beyond what you might find in a local takeaway. Some must-try dishes include:
- Peking Duck: A world-famous Beijing speciality, this crispy and succulent roasted duck is served with thin pancakes, spring onions, and hoisin sauce.
- Xiaolongbao: These Shanghai soup dumplings are filled with rich broth and tender pork, making for a delightful treat.
- Hotpot: A social dining experience, this dish allows diners to cook a variety of meats, vegetables, and noodles in a simmering pot of aromatic broth.
- Mapo Tofu: A Sichuan classic, this spicy tofu dish is flavoured with chilli bean paste, garlic, and Sichuan peppercorns for a signature numbing heat.
Tea culture is also an integral part of Chinese dining, with green tea, jasmine tea, and oolong tea being particularly popular. For those who prefer international cuisine, cities like Beijing and Shanghai boast a wide range of Western dining options to suit all tastes.
China Travel Guide FAQs
Can you give a brief history of China
China's history spans thousands of years, marked by the rise and fall of influential dynasties. It began with the legendary Xia and progressed through the Shang and Zhou dynasties, which established early Chinese culture and philosophy. The Qin Dynasty unified China and laid the groundwork for future empires, while the Han Dynasty ushered in a golden age of prosperity and expansion. Subsequent dynasties, such as the Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing, contributed to China's cultural, technological, and territorial development. In the 20th century, the Republic of China was established, followed by the People's Republic of China in 1949 under Communist rule. Since the late 20th century, economic reforms have propelled China to become a global economic powerhouse, balancing rapid modernization with its rich cultural heritage.
Do I need a holiday visa for China?
Please refer to our visa page for details regarding the entry requirements for China.
Is China a safe country to visit?
The places visited on your itinerary are generally safe and our guides will always keep an eye out for you. However, in any large city there can be opportunists and pickpockets. It is wise to be vigilant, especially at busy tourist attractions, and always take good care of your personal belongings. Make use of the safe at your hotel, and carry a photocopy of your passport when out and about. Always take extra care when using public transport.
Is English widely spoken in China?
While Mandarin is the official language, many signs in tourist areas are in English, and younger people often speak some English.
Useful Links
- For up-to-date information regarding entry into China please see: www.dfa.ie
