Things You Need to Know for Your First Trip to China

Things to do in China for First Time

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.

Add these to your China travel checklist — or travel with SMCOrientrip to discover more unique experiences in your first trip to China.