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1. Visiting China is easier with 240-hour visa-free policy
Good news for travelers! China now offers a 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit policy in most area, making it easier than ever to explore without a visa. If you’re flying through China on your way to a third country, you can enjoy a short trip without the hassle of applying for a visa.
Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xian, and Chongqing allow visa-free stays. That means you can walk the Great Wall, visit the Terracotta Warriors, cruise the Yangtze River, or explore Shanghai’s skyline—all without a visa!
To qualify, you must arrive from one country and depart to another (not returning to the same country). Simply inform your airline and immigration upon arrival.
Visa-free Travel to China 2025 (Updated Dec.17, 2024)
2. China is the World’s Oldest Continuous Civilization with 5,000 years of history
With over 5,000 years of history, China isn’t just old—it’s been going strong the whole time! Its roots go back to the Yellow River Valley, where early farming communities thrived around 3000 BCE.
Ancient China Capitals: 10 Historical Capitals of China
The legendary Xia Dynasty (c. 2070-1600 BCE) is said to be the first, followed by the Shang and Zhou Dynasties, which shaped much of China’s culture, politics, and philosophy.
Want to walk through history? Xi'an, home to the Terracotta Warriors, was the capital for 13 dynasties, and Luoyang, another ancient capital, is packed with ruins and relics from China’s earliest days. From oracle bones to ancient city walls, you don’t just read about China’s past—you can stand right in it!
3. China is One of the Safest and Cleanest Places to Travel
China is one of the safest countries to visit. No guns, no drugs, no racial tensions—just a peaceful environment. Whether you're traveling solo, even as a woman, walking around at night or in quiet alleyways, you’ll feel secure.
Is China Safe to Travel 2025? 10 China Safety Tips
Crime rates are low, with robbery and theft being rare, thanks to extensive security cameras keeping watch everywhere. Yes, the surveillance might feel a bit much, but it definitely adds to the peace of mind!
China is incredibly clean. You’ll find trash bins every 50 meters, and streets are constantly swept. No overflowing garbage piles, no unpleasant smells, and no homeless camps cluttering public spaces.
4. China's high-speed rail mileage has reached 48,000 km and continues to grow
As of January 2025, China’s high-speed rail (HSR) network has surpassed 48,000 km (30,000 miles)—an incredible leap from zero in 2000! It’s not just connecting major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an but also smaller towns and scenic destinations like Zhangjiajie, Guilin and Huangshan, making travel easier than ever.
Why choose high-speed rail over flying? Train stations are often closer to city centers, security checks are quicker, and the onboard experience is smooth and spacious. The trains are fast, punctual, and frequent, so you won’t waste time waiting. Plus, the journey itself is part of the adventure—you get to sit back and enjoy stunning countryside views along the way.
Once you’ve tried it, you’ll see why so many travelers prefer high-speed trains over flights when exploring China!
5. 56 Diverse Ethnic Groups: A Colorful World Beyond the Big Cities
China isn’t just Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an—it’s also home to 56 diverse ethnic groups, each with its own traditional clothing, music, festivals, and mouthwatering food. These cultures thrive in southwest, northwest, and northeast China, making rural areas and small towns perfect for a unique travel experience.
If you’re an adventurer or a returning visitor looking for something beyond the usual tourist spots, consider these destinations:
- Tibet - Monasteries, prayer flags, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.
- Kashgar, Xinjiang - A Silk Road city with Uighur culture, mosques, and a legendary bazaar.
- Yunnan (Dali, Lijiang, Shangri-La, Yuanyang, Xishuangbanna) - Bai, Naxi, Tibetan, Hani, and Dai cultures, stunning rice terraces, and vibrant markets.
- Guizhou (Miao & Dong Villages) - Traditional wooden houses, silver jewelry, and folk singing.
- Guangxi (Guilin & Longji Rice Terraces) - Karst mountains, Zhuang minority villages, and epic landscapes.
These regions offer a completely different side of China, perfect for those looking to dive deeper into its rich cultural tapestry!
6. Chinese New Year: The Biggest Celebration on Earth
Chinese New Year isn’t just a holiday in China—it’s a global celebration! With 1.4 billion people in China and millions more across Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, Vietnam, and Chinatowns worldwide, the Lunar New Year is a time for festivals, temple fairs, lion dances, and lantern displays.
More than a billion people travel during this time, making it the largest human migration in the world! Locals either head home to reunite with family or escape winter on a vacation. Yunnan and Hainan are packed with domestic tourists, so if you're visiting China during this period, maybe skip those.
Chinese Festivals: 11 Traditional Celebrations in China
Instead, Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, and Chengdu are surprisingly great options. Since many city residents return to their hometowns, these big cities become less crowded, making it the perfect time to explore famous landmarks with fewer lines and more breathing room!
7. Food in China Varies Wildly by Region
China’s food scene is as diverse as its landscapes, with each region offering a completely different culinary experience. In the south, rice reigns supreme, while the north sticks to wheat - think noodles and dumplings. But it’s not just about what’s eaten; it’s about how it’s prepared.
Most Popular Chinese Food: Top 20 Chinese Dishes
Sichuan and Chongqing are famous for their spicy hot pots, where the broth packs a punch, while Cantonese cuisine (think dim sum) is lighter, sweeter, and all about the freshness of ingredients, catering to the tastes of more foreign tourists. Meanwhile, Beijing is known for the iconic Peking duck, and Xi'an delights with its rich, savory flavors like biangbiang noodles.
Cantonese Food | Cantonese Cuisines, Dishes, Top Guangzhou Food & Cantonese Restaurants
Famous Tibetan Foods: 10 Best Tibet Dishes & Cuisines
Yunnan Food: 15 Delicious Yunnan Cuisines You’ll Love
Food cities like Chengdu, Guangzhou, and Yunnan will leave you craving for more, while places like Hangzhou and Beijing may not offer the same range of flavors but are still home to unique dishes. Don’t miss out on sampling everything - it's an adventure for your taste buds!
8. China is Cashless Society
Before you head to China, make sure you've got WeChat Pay and Alipay set up on your phone - it’s almost as important as your visa! Mobile payments are everywhere, even with street vendors, making it super convenient for travelers.
How to Pay in China as a Foreigner (Wechat & Alipay)?
WeChat in China: How to Use WeChat in China?
With just your phone, you can handle all your payments - whether it's for transportation, accommodation, food, or even tickets. Plus, China doesn't have a tipping culture, so don’t worry about trying to tip anyone - they’ll actually refuse! It’s a nice cultural difference.
You can also easily pay for taxis, food delivery, and bike rentals with these apps. At first, it might take a little getting used to, but if you plan on sticking around longer, learning how to use these services is a game changer.
9. China Has 5 Different Time Zones But Uses One
China is massive, stretching across five time zones, but you’ll notice it follows just one - Beijing Time (CST) - everywhere! This can be a little confusing for travelers, especially if you’re visiting regions far from Beijing.
What does that mean for you as a traveler? Well, it can throw off your sense of time. In cities like Xinjiang, the sun can stay up until 10 PM in summer! While this may feel odd, the upside is that it simplifies travel logistics across the country - you won’t have to worry about adjusting to different time zones.
Just remember that if you're traveling far west, the "local time" might not match the daylight hours!
10. The Great Wall is Longer Than You Think: 21,000 km
Think the Great Wall is just a single, endless barrier? Not quite! It’s actually a massive network of walls stretching over 21,000 km (13,000 miles), built by different dynasties over centuries. The easternmost part starts at Shanhaiguan by the Bohai Sea, while the western end reaches Jiayuguan in Gansu. What you see near Beijing? That’s mostly from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)—and it's some of the best-preserved sections!
If you’re in Beijing, here are some top spots to explore:
- Mutianyu - Less crowded, scenic, and great for a cable car ride.
- Badaling - The most famous and easiest to access, but also the busiest.
- Jinshanling - A stunning mix of restored and wild wall, perfect for hiking.
- Simatai The only section open for night tours.
- Jiankou - A wild, unrestored section for adventurous hikers.
No matter which part you visit, the Great Wall is even more impressive in person!
11. Forbidden City Has 9,999 Rooms
The Forbidden City, the world’s largest imperial palace, was built back in 1406. It served as the home of China’s emperors during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, and the last emperor lived there until 1924. Now, it's been 100 years since it became the Palace Museum in 1925.
Although the Forbidden City is said to have over 9,999 rooms, only 70% of the complex is open to the public. This 600-year-old palace has been home to 24 emperors, their concubines, and countless treasures like porcelain, royal attire, crowns, and the rooms once occupied by eunuchs and palace maids.
Visiting the Forbidden City is a must for anyone touring Beijing. But keep in mind, tickets need to be booked in advance, and they can be hard to get. Don’t worry—Asia Odyssey Travel can handle all the details for you!
12. Giant Panda Huahua is the Glory Director of Chengdu Culture & Tourism
If you’re heading to Chengdu, a visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a must! Giant pandas, with their black-and-white fur and iconic eye patches, are simply irresistible.
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (Facts, Attractions & Route)
Huahua, living in Villa No. 6 at the base, is a pop star of the panda world. In 2024, Huahua holds an honorary title as the Chengdu Culture & Tourism Glory Director. Over 12 million people from all over the world queue up for over 3 hours just for a glimpse of her, and once you see her, you’ll understand why!
Besides Huhua, there are over 200 giant pandas living in the base. Watching the pandas play, munch on bamboo, or just lounge around is an experience you won’t forget. Their gentle movements and playful personalities make for some of the most heartwarming moments you’ll find in China.
13. Terracotta Army is Over 2,200 Years Old
Buried for over 2,200 years, the Terracotta Army in Xi'an is one of China’s greatest archaeological discoveries. These life-sized clay soldiers were created to guard Emperor Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor, in the afterlife. Each warrior has unique facial features, armor, and even hairstyles, showcasing incredible craftsmanship.
Discovered in 1974 by local farmers, the site now houses thousands of these ancient soldiers, along with horses and chariots. A visit to Xi'an isn’t complete without seeing this UNESCO World Heritage Site—standing before these silent guardians feels like stepping into history itself!
14. China Has the World’s Highest and Lowest Points
Curious about the World’s Highest and Lowest land? You can find both in China!
On its western border with Nepal stands the mighty Mount Everest (8,848m/29,029ft), the tallest mountain on Earth. Visitors can reach the northern base camp easily by overland travel from Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. It’s a 2-day journey through breathtaking plateau landscapes, shimmering lakes, towering mountains, and deep valleys, before the majestic Himalayas finally come into view.
Meanwhile, in northwest China, the Turpan Depression sinks to -154m (-505ft) below sea level, making it the lowest point in China and the third-lowest on Earth. Travelers can reach Turpan by air or high-speed train from Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu. Trpan is a key stop along the ancient Silk Road. Here, you can explore the ingenious Karez underground water system, the Jiaohe Ruins, and other fascinating relics of history.
15. China has More than 2,000 Rivers
With over 2,200 rivers, China’s landscapes are shaped by water. Most originate from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, but none are as famous as the Yangtze River and the Yellow River, known as the "Mother Rivers" of Chinese civilization.
The Yangtze River, China’s longest and the world’s third-longest, flows over 6,300 km (3,900 miles). The best places to admire it? Try Shigu Town near Lijiang for the First Bend of the Yangtze, or visit Chongqing, the starting point of the Yangtze River Cruise through the spectacular Three Gorges and the Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest hydroelectric project.
The Yellow River, China’s second-longest, gets its name from the muddy waters of the Loess Plateau. To see its grandeur, visit Lanzhou, where it runs through the city, or Xiaolangdi in Luoyang, where massive waves create a breathtaking scene.
16. China is A Perfect Destination for Family Adventures
China is a fantastic place for a family-friendly trip, offering a mix of culture, history, nature, and fun activities. With careful planning, it can be a smooth and enriching experience for all ages.
13 Things to Do in China with Kids: Exploring China with Kids
For families, balancing historical sites and natural wonders is key. Besides iconic landmarks like the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, and Forbidden City, consider adding nature-focused destinations like Guilin, Zhangjiajie, Yunnan, or a Yangtze River cruise for a refreshing contrast. Museums, theme parks, and cultural experiences make great additions too.
China’s low crime rate, clean environment, and safe food options make it an ideal destination for families. However, some popular attractions can be crowded, which may be stressful for those traveling with kids or elderly members. Avoid peak seasons and consider guided tours to ease logistics—local guides know the best times and routes to explore stress-free!
17. 59 UNESCO Heritage Sites in China
China boasts 59 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it the second most culturally and naturally rich country in the world, just after Italy.
For history lovers, must-visit sites include the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Terracotta Army, Mogao Caves, Lijiang Old Town, and Potala Palace. Nature enthusiasts will be amazed by the karst landscapes of Guilin, the surreal peaks of Zhangjiajie, Jiuzhaigou Valley, Huanglong, and China’s iconic pandas in Sichuan.
59 China World Heritage Sites | China UNESCO List (Updated 2025)
You can’t see them all in one trip, but top destinations like Beijing, Xi'an, Zhangjiajie, and Guilin are a great start. For a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, consider exploring the Silk Road in Xinjiang, Quanzhou in Fujian, Fanjingshan in Guizhou, or the Fujian Tulou clusters—hidden gems packed with history and charm!
18. Countryside in China is diverse and appealing
China’s countryside is full of hidden gems, offering a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. If you’re seeking a one-of-a-kind adventure, the rural areas are a must-visit. From the misty, green terraces of Longji in Guangxi to the unique tulou villages of Fujian, you’ll find breathtaking landscapes and centuries-old traditions at every turn.
In Yunnan, you can unwind amid rolling hills and explore charming towns like Dali and Lijiang, while Zhangjiajie and Jiuzhaigou offer jaw-dropping mountain vistas. The rice terraces of Yuanyang, the vast Mongolian grasslands in Inner Mongolia, and the iconic Karst peaks in Guangxi all offer a taste of China’s diverse beauty.
With its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and endless adventures, China’s countryside is the perfect place to slow down and experience something truly special.
19. The Cost in China is Lower Than You Think
Traveling in China is a lot more affordable than many people expect! Whether you're on a tight budget or just want to make the most of your travel funds, China offers great value in almost every aspect of your trip.
China Trip Cost: How Much is a Trip to China
- Affordable Transportation: China's high-speed trains are fast, efficient, and surprisingly cheap! Buses and subways are also super budget-friendly, with tickets costing just a few yuan.
- Food for All Budgets: Street food like dumplings, baozi (steamed buns), and skewers are delicious and cost only a few yuan. Even in mid-range restaurants, you’ll find tasty meals for under $10.
- Budget-Friendly Accommodations:Budget travelers can find affordable options like hostels or guesthouses, with comfortable stays costing around $20–$50 a night in most cities.
- Low-Cost Attractions: Many of China’s amazing landmarks, like the Great Wall, temples, and parks, have a very reasonable entrance fee, often less than $20. Museums are often free to visit.
20. Ethnic Minority Festivals in China are Celebrations
China’s ethnic minority festivals offer travelers a chance to experience the country’s rich cultural diversity in full swing. Here are some must-see celebrations:
- Dai Water-Splashing Festival (April): Held in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, this festival is all about water fights, where people splash each other to celebrate the New Year, symbolizing the washing away of bad luck.
- Yi Torch Festival (July): In Yunnan and Sichuan, the Yi people light huge bonfires, create torch processions, and enjoy singing and dancing, celebrating the harvest and hoping for a good year ahead.
- Zhuang San Yue San (April): Celebrated in Guangxi, this festival honors ancestors with singing, dancing, and eating traditional foods, bringing together Zhuang people in a lively atmosphere.
- Tibetan Shoton Festival (August): Held in Lhasa, Tibet, this is a Buddhist festival with colorful prayers, sacred opera performances, and butter sculptures.
- Miao Sisters' Festival (May): In Guizhou, young Miao women showcase their beautiful silver jewelry and traditional dresses, and celebrate with singing, dancing, and matchmaking!
These festivals provide a glimpse into the heart of China’s cultural diversity!
21. Chinese people are very warm, Kind and friendly
One of the biggest surprises for many travelers to China is the warmth and friendliness of its people, which often goes unnoticed in media reports.
In big cities like Shanghai and Beijing, many young people know some basic English and are more than happy to offer directions or advice. You might even get a smile while asking for help!
In smaller towns and rural areas, even if you don’t speak Mandarin, you’ll often find locals offering a hand, whether it's pointing you in the right direction, suggesting where to eat, or even encouraging you to try a free sample.
With a translation app in hand, you’ll have the chance to create some truly authentic and memorable moments during your trip!
22. Accommodation in China is beyond expectation
Accommodation in China is often beyond what travelers expect, offering a wide range of options that are safe, clean, and comfortable. Whether you’re staying in a luxury hotel in bustling cities like Beijing or Shanghai or opting for a cozy guesthouse in smaller towns, cleanliness and safety are top priorities.
Hotels and hostels are generally well-maintained, with most offering modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and daily housekeeping. Many places also provide extra services like airport pick-up or local tours. In rural areas, farm stays or boutique inns offer an authentic experience, often with traditional Chinese hospitality.
23. National Parks is Home to Natural Beauty
China's national parks are a treasure trove of natural beauty and unique wildlife.
For starters, Zhangjiajie inspired the floating mountains in Avatar, with towering sandstone pillars. Jiuzhaigou is like a fairyland, known for its colorful lakes and waterfalls, and it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Top 20 China National Parks Ultimate Guide 2025 (with Map)
Over in Huangshan, you'll find stunning granite peaks and epic sunrises, perfect for hikers and photographers. Shennongjia is famous for its rare creatures, like the giant salamander and even sightings of the "Wild Man." Fanjing Mountain offers incredible biodiversity and spiritual vibes with its unique rock formations.
Whether you're into trekking, photography, or just soaking in nature, China's national parks deliver some of the best landscapes you'll ever see.
24. Over 1,000 Museums in China are Free to Public
Do you know how many museums are there in China? the answer is 6183! More than 1,000 of them are free to the public. That’s right – you can explore everything from ancient history to modern technology without spending a penny!
Some must-visit museums include the Palace Museum (Forbidden City) in Beijing, the Shaanxi History Museum in Xi'an, and the Henan Museum in Zhengzhou, which showcase China’s rich cultural heritage. For something more futuristic, check out the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum or the China Aviation Museum.
Visiting these museums is one of the best ways to dive into China’s history and culture, and many offer free access if you book in advance. So, why not take advantage of these fascinating opportunities on your travels?
25. The weather in China varies greatly from north to south
The weather in China is incredibly diverse, ranging from freezing cold winters in the north to tropical warmth in the south. Due to the country’s vast size and geographical variety, the climate changes drastically from region to region.
Spring in China: Weather & Top 7 Places to Visit
Summer in China: 16 Best Places to Visit in China During Summer
Autumn in China: Weather, 16 Spots, Festival, Avoid Crowds
Winter in China: Weather, Festivals, Destinations & Tips
In the north, like Beijing and Inner Mongolia, winters are cold and dry, with temperatures dropping well below freezing. Summer, on the other hand, can be hot and dry, perfect for exploring historical sites like the Great Wall or the Forbidden City.
Meanwhile, southern China, including cities like Guangzhou, Kunming, and parts of Yunnan, enjoys a much milder climate. Here, temperatures are more moderate, with summers being hot but with more rainfall, especially during the monsoon season.
China is Full of Surprises—Come See for Yourself!
From ancient wonders to modern marvels, from giant pandas to futuristic cities, China is a country full of fascinating stories and unique experiences. These 25 facts are just a glimpse into what makes China so special—but the best way to truly understand it is to see it for yourself!
At Asia Odyssey Travel, we make exploring China easy, fun, and hassle-free with expert guides, well-planned itineraries, and unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, we’ll help you discover the real China, beyond just the facts.
Ready to experience China’s wonders firsthand? Contact us today and let’s plan your adventure!
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