China Holidays
A land where celestial empires, fabled dynasties, and world wonders come together with a sprinkle of modern magic and roly-poly pandas.
About China
Covering nearly 4 million square miles, holidays to China see experiences collide like no other travel destination in the world. A faraway country whose fabled dynasties and Terracotta Warrior histories sit side by side mega-metropolises, China holidays are all about embracing adventure to watch culture and cuisine collide. Discover Chinese New Year trips and immersive touring holidays, find hidden gems beyond the Great Wall, or uncover family-friendly China holiday ideas and budget travel itineraries that make wanderlust come alive. From dazzling neon skylines in Shanghai to the mist-crowned peaks of Zhangjiajie, our China travel experts unlock unforgettable experiences and insider tips to plan your perfect China holiday.
Why Visit China?
- One of the world’s most diverse and fascinating holiday destinations
- Walk through 3,000+ years of history, from imperial palaces to UNESCO World Heritage sites
- Hike misty mountains, cruise mighty rivers, wander deserts, bamboo forests, and rice terraces
- Feast on regional Chinese cuisine, discover tea culture, and experience warm, proud local hospitality that turns moments into memories
China offers incredible cityscapes, striking natural landscapes and unforgettable adventures. Discover it all on one of our incredible tours
More about China
Ancient Wonders & Imperial Legends
China is a living museum, where history doesn’t sit behind glass - it surrounds you. Walk the Great Wall as it snakes across mountains, explore Beijing’s Forbidden City where Ming- and Qing-dynasty emperors ruled for over 500 years, or stand in awe before the Terracotta Army in Xi’an. These legendary landmarks are cornerstones of any China holiday, offering glimpses into dynasties, myths, and monumental ambition that still echo today.
Cities That Never Stop Evolving
From futuristic skylines to hidden hutongs, China’s cities are electric and endlessly surprising. While Shanghai shimmers with neon lights, rooftop bars, and river views, ever-popular Beijing blends imperial grandeur with buzzing modern culture. But what other cities can you add to your bucket list? Chengdu charms with teahouses, pandas, and laid-back vibes, and Hong Kong fuses east-meets-west energy with dramatic harbour scenery. Each city adds a new rhythm to your China travel story.
Natural Beauty on a Giant Scale
China’s landscapes feel straight out of a fantasy novel. Cruise between limestone karsts in Guilin, photograph mirror-like rice terraces in Longsheng, trek the colourful valleys of Jiuzhaigou or wander Zhangjiajie’s soaring stone pillars, the inspiration for blockbuster Avatar. China has many natural beauties, but perhaps our favourite? The giant pandas of Sichuan province. A journey southwest to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a must for animal lovers wanting to see these nationally treasured bears.
A Culinary Adventure
Chinese cuisine is not one flavour: it’s a thousand delicious identities. Savour fiery Sichuan dishes that tingle and thrill, delicate Cantonese dim sum, hearty northern dumplings, and fragrant Yunnan specialities. From street-side noodles to elegant banquet feasts, every region tells its own food story. Tea ceremonies, night markets, and local kitchens make China holidays a dream for adventurous eaters. And foodie tours allow you to really savour the tastes of China, one province at a time.
Festivals, Traditions & Living Culture
Want to kick your bucket list up a notch? Time your trip with Chinese New Year, the Lantern Festival, or Golden Week and watch the country burst into colour, fireworks, and celebration. Dragon dances, glowing lanterns, temple fairs, and family feasts showcase traditions passed down for generations. But don’t worry, even outside festival season, everyday rituals like tai chi in parks, calligraphy practice, and evening dances, offer beautiful insight into daily Chinese life.
Unique Experiences for the Whole Family
China isn’t just about famous landmarks; it’s a country full of one-of-a-kind experiences. Imagine bamboo rafting along the Li River, experiencing Tibetan culture in Lhasa, or joining a lantern-making workshop in a centuries-old village. Taste tea in a misty Wuyi Mountain plantation, learn Kung Fu from the masters, ride a bullet train, hike Tiger Leaping Gorge in Yunnan, or attend a traditional opera in the ancient Zheng Yici Opera Theatre. We know all the best hidden gems and top tours.
Travel Guide
China spans an extraordinary range of climates, landscapes, and experiences. From subtropical south to cool northern plains, there’s always somewhere perfect to explore year-round.
- Average flight time: 10-12 Hours
- Most suited for: Culture seekers, Foodies & Adventure Lovers
- Currency: Chinese Yuan (RMB)
- Time Difference: +8 Hours
- Best time to visit: Year-round
Weather in Beijing
Average monthly temperature in Beijing (°C)
- Jan -3°C
- Feb 0°C
- Mar 6°C
- Apr 14°C
- May 21°C
- Jun 25°C
- Jul 27°C
- Aug 25°C
- Sep 21°C
- Oct 13°C
- Nov 5°C
- Dec -2°C
Do I need a visa to travel to Japan?
If you are a UK citizen, you can enter Japan visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism. If you plan to stay longer, work, or study, you’ll need to apply for the appropriate visa. Always check the latest entry and visa requirements on the official Government website before booking.
What is the best time of year to visit Japan?
Each season in Japan offers something special. The cherry blossom season in spring (late March-to April) is iconic. Autumn (October to November) brings beautiful foliage. Winter in northern regions like Hokkaido offers snow and winter festivals. Summer has colourful matsuri festivals, but it can be rainy and hot, especially early summer.
How much cash should I carry, and do people accept cards?
Japan is still very much a cash-first country in many areas. Small shops, temples, rural towns, and food stalls often don’t take cards, so it’s wise to have the local currency, yen, with you. Major hotels, restaurants in big cities, and convenience stores are more likely to accept cards. A great choice for travellers looking for a prepaid currency card option is our Hays Travel Money Card.
What cultural etiquette should I be aware of?
Japan has many cultural norms that visitors appreciate when followed:
· Remove shoes indoors, especially in homes, ryokan, and temples.
· Be quiet on public transport and avoid phone calls.
· Use two hands when giving or receiving items (e.g. gifts, business cards).
· Tipping is not customary in normal restaurants; excellent service is part of the culture.
Are places crowded, and how can I avoid the busiest times?
Popular spots like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka can become busy, especially during peak travel seasons like cherry blossom time, Golden Week, and major festivals. For a more peaceful holiday, try visiting top sights early in the morning, or travelling off-peak in late autumn, early winter, or exploring lesser-known destinations.
Is public transport easy to use? What about train travel?
Very much yes. Japan’s public transport system is efficient, clean, and remarkably punctual. If you plan to travel between cities, the Shinkansen (bullet train) can save you a lot of time. Be aware of etiquette on trains and keep luggage manageable.
How many days should I spend in Japan for a good holiday?
That depends on what you want. For a taste of Japan’s highlights, 7 to 10 days gives a good start. If you want to go more in-depth, exploring off the beaten path, small towns, and multiple regions, 2 to 3 weeks lets you slow down, absorb culture, and discover those hidden gems.
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