Things You Need to Know for Your First Trip to China

When is the Best Time to Travel to China?

The best season to travel is in spring and autumn. Since China is a large country, the climate varies greatly in different regions. Generally speaking, spring and autumn are the best seasons to travel to China, as the climate is suitable and it avoids the summer heat and winter cold. However, these two seasons are also the busiest tourist season. To avoid the crowds, you may need to avoid traveling during traditional Chinese holidays such as National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival. Travel with SMCOrientrip on your first time travel to China — we ensure exclusive access to top attractions, premium transfers, and world-class service for an unparalleled travel experience.

Click on the Best Time to Visit China in 2025&2026 to read more.

Things to do in China

1. Dumpling-Making Experience:

Dumplings are a traditional Chinese dish with a long history. On Chinese New Year’s Eve, especially in northern China, no dinner table is complete without a steaming plate of dumplings. Dumplings are popular across China, with regions such as Northeast China, Shandong, Henan, Sichuan, and Guangdong being particularly renowned for their distinct flavors and preparation methods. These dumplings have become an integral part of Chinese culinary culture. For international visitors, learning to make dumplings is an authentic cultural experience. Participants can shape dumplings and learn about their historical and cultural importance.
In many parts of China, visitors can join classes at homestays, culinary centers, and cooking schools, where they master the techniques of dough preparation, shaping, and cooking. Especially in Beijing,  this is a meaningful things to do in Beijing travel. This immersive experience enhances understanding of Chinese cuisine and customs, creating a memorable cultural journey.

2. Shanghai Soup Dumpling (Xiao Long Bao) DIY Experience:

Xiao Long Bao, a signature dish of Shanghai, is renowned for its delicate dumplings filled with savory soup. It’s a popular item in Chinese restaurants worldwide. At the Nanxiang Xiao Long Bao Cultural Experience Center in Shanghai, visitors can observe the detailed process of making these dumplings, participate in the preparation, and learn about their origins, techniques, and cultural significance. This an immersive things to do in Shanghai.
This hands-on experience not only deepens visitors’ understanding of local culinary traditions but also immerses them in the rich cultural stories behind China’s food and cuisine. It adds a special dimension to their China travel, letting them taste both the history and emotion in each dumpling.

3. Chinese Kung Fu Experience:

Chinese Kung Fu is an ancient art that blends physical skill with deep philosophical roots. Styles like Shaolin Kung Fu, Tai Chi, and Wing Chun embody unique techniques and cultural heritage. Visitors can engage in Kung Fu classes to improve strength, flexibility, and endurance, while exploring Chinese philosophy through martial arts.
Kung Fu experiences are offered at famous sites like the Shaolin Temple, Wudang Mountain, and Chen Village. Visitors can learn the basics, enjoy performances, and gain insight into the cultural and spiritual philosophies behind the martial arts.

4. Sichuan Opera Face-Changing Experience:

Sichuan Opera, a traditional form from Sichuan, is famous for its dramatic face-changing act, where performers swiftly switch masks to reveal emotional shifts. This performance, along with fire-spitting and high-pitched singing, is a highlight of Sichuan’s theatrical heritage.
In Chengdu, visitors can observe professional performances, join workshops, and try on costumes to learn basic mask-switching techniques, offering a hands-on way to experience this mesmerizing tradition.

5. Chinese Calligraphy Experience:

Chinese calligraphy is a unique art that showcases the beauty of Chinese characters. With a history spanning over 3,000 years, it has evolved into several styles, each reflecting cultural values of its time. Calligraphy is more than art; it’s a practice of self-cultivation, developing patience and focus.
Visitors can join workshops in cities like Beijing, Xi’an, and Suzhou to learn basic calligraphy techniques and explore the cultural significance behind the art form. These experiences allow a deep connection with China’s history and philosophy through the written word.
Discover a range of unique experiences in your China travel with SMCOrientrip.

Check Your Visa Before Departure.

Before departure, you need to be aware of China’s visa policies. Whether it’s your first or subsequent visit to China, you need to apply for a visa to enter China (except for visa-exempt countries). It is recommended to apply for a tourist visa (L visa) a few months before your travel date. You can read more about visa requirements and the documents needed to apply on the official government website.

How to Pay in China?

China’s official currency is Renminbi (RMB), or yuan. Chinese people often refer to “yuan（元）” as “kuai（块）,” and both are used in China. For example, 1 yuan = 1 kuai. The denominations of paper money are 1 yuan, 5 yuan, 10 yuan, 20 yuan, 50 yuan, and 100 yuan. During China travel, you can exchange RMB at airports, banks, ATMs, some hotels, and exchange offices. You can also make payments by scanning QR codes with WeChat Pay or Alipay. We strongly recommend it as it is very convenient.

Useful Travel Apps in China.

Downloading some useful Chinese apps on your phone in advance can help solve many problems in your China trip and enhance your travel experience, such as:

• WeChat: China’s WhatsApp.
• Didi: China’s Uber.
• Alipay: A popular Chinese payment method(you can also use WeChat Pay).
• Amap/Baidu Maps: These are China’s Google Maps.

Is China Safe to Travel to Right Now?

China is a very safe country, even for solo female travelers. There are police patrolling the streets and tourist attractions. Compared to major cities in other countries, the crime rate in China is relatively low. Nevertheless, tourists should still maintain basic safety awareness. As long as you stay aware of your surroundings, respect local customs and culture, your trip to China will be safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable.

First trip to China is an exciting adventure filled with unique cultural experiences and stunning sights. With a bit of preparation and an open mind, you’ll find your journey both enriching and unforgettable. Travel with SMCOrientrip tour packages or China private tour, we offer the best China travel guide for beginners.