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The best of China: 14 places you won’t want to miss

Feb 21, 2024 • 5 min read

From vibrant cities to jaw-dropping natural wonders like Zhangjiajie, here are the places in China you won’t want to miss © siraphat / Shutterstock

In  China , antiquity and heritage meet 21st-century innovation and lighting-fast development.

This is a country packed with highlights – so many that it might be hard to craft a manageable itinerary. Start by immersing yourself in one of China's gigantic, sprawling cities – which contain plenty of frantic energy, but hidden pockets of serenity, too. Take a break from the crush by soaking up China's natural scenery – think jagged peaks and pine forests draped in a sea of mist that look like they've been lifted straight from one of the country's masterpiece scroll paintings. As one of the world's most ancient civilizations, China also offers wonderful opportunities to explore astounding relics from its millennia of history. 

Don't know where to start? Whether you dream of gilded temples, boisterous urban environments, fabulous food or the wonders of the Great Wall, here are our picks of the best places to visit in China.

One of the world's greatest cities and China's absolute can't-miss destination, Beijing is home to many of China's big-ticket attractions: the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square , the Summer Palace and more. But its appeal goes well beyond blockbuster sights. Get lost among its labyrinth of traditional hutongs (alleyways), marvel at its cutting-edge modern architecture, feast on Peking duck and a million other dishes from across the country, check out the local indie music scene, admire Ming-dynasty ceramics, drop by a traditional teahouse or enjoy a boisterous evening sampling the local baijiu  (sorghum wine).

2. Mogao Grottoes, Dunhuang

Along the ancient Silk Road, the atmospheric frontier town of Dunhuang is home to one of the world's most important collections of Buddhist art. Among more than 490 Buddhist caves in the area, the mural and statue-filled Mogao Grottoes represent perhaps the zenith of Buddhist artistry in China.

3. Tiger Leaping Gorge, Yunnan

One of China's most famous treks, this 22km (14-mile)  hiking trail winds through a World Heritage-listed gorge in Yunnan that is one of Asia's most striking landscapes. Framed by spectacular snow-capped mountains and the scenic Jinshajiang River, the natural monument plunges to depths of 3900m (12,795ft), making it one of the deepest gorges in the world.

4. Le Shan, Sichuan

Standing at the confluence of two rivers, the monumental 1200-year old Buddha image  at Le Shan is carved directly into the rock face. World Heritage–listed, the extraordinary monument stands 71m (233ft) tall and 28m (92ft) wide, making it the largest ancient Buddha in the world. Whether you're spiritually included or not, coming face to face with this sculpture is quite a moving experience.

5. Shanghai

Glitzy, elegant, historic and cosmopolitan: everything you've heard about Shanghai is true. Just take a stroll through the French Concession or along the Bund , and you'll see for yourself. From the grand display of 1920s architecture to the city's sophisticated restaurants and rooftop bars to the sci-fi neon-lit skyscrapers across the bay, Shanghai is the past and future China brought to vivid life.

6. The Great Wall

Snaking through China's majestic mountainous terrain, the spectacular  Great Wall is the nation's most iconic landmark. Built over two millennia, this awe-inspiring, 21,196km-long (13,170-mile-long) fortification is a true marvel of human accomplishment. In fact, it's not one wall but many, stretching from the east coast all the way to the far western desert. The most easily accessible stretches can be reached by car from Beijing.

With its charming teahouses, lively nightlife and fiery Sichuan food, Chengdu is one of China's most popular cities for travelers. But most folk visit here for one reason: pandas. And while you'd be very lucky to spot one in the wild, sightings are guaranteed at the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base . Other draws of this inland regional capital include temples, pavilions and museums devoted to the culture of the ancient Shu kingdom.

8. Karst peaks, Guilin

Spanning the distance from Guilin to Yangshou , the picture-perfect karst-limestone peaks offer an extraordinary backdrop to the scenic Li River and rice paddies. Grab a bicycle or board a raft to tour this beautiful countryside, passing farmers and water buffalo along the way.

9. Guangzhou

This vibrant and dynamic  megacity is one of China's most fascinating hubs. You'll find an intriguing mix of old and new in a city where skyscrapers nudge the clouds, and monks shuffle around 1500-year-old Buddhist temples. But it's the Cantonese cuisine that lures in many, with some of the finest dim sum in all of China.

10. Longji Rice Terraces, Guangxi

You'll find rice paddies all over China – but few are as spectacular as the ones in Longji , built against a backdrop of lush mountains. Walks here lead to viewpoints overlooking sculpted, iridescent green terraces with swirling patterns resembling the contours of a giant thumbprint.

11. Terracotta Warriors, Xi'an

Unearthed in Xi'an by unsuspecting rural workers in 1974, this enigmatic army of life-sized statues remains of the world's most remarkable archaeological finds. Dating back 2200 years, they were built to protect the underground tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Needless to say, meeting the warriors face to face is an experience you'll never forget.

12. Xi'an

In a country where cities seemingly spring up overnight, this is one of the oldest and grandest. Known to most for its extraordinary Terracotta Warriors, Xi'an is also remarkable in its own right – notably as the beginning of the Silk Road, a trade route with a legacy that remains intact within its atmospheric Muslim Quarter .

13. Zhangjiajie

Rising dramatically from the subtropical forests of northwest Hunan , the pinnacle rock formations of  Zhangjiajie inspired the scenery in the film Avatar (2009). Take it all in as you walk over a vertiginous glass-bottom suspension bridge floating 300m (984ft) above ground. If that's not daring enough, you can bungee jump off it, too.

14. Forbidden City, Beijing

Among China's imperial sights, none can compare in size, grandeur or mystique to Beijing's Forbidden City . Built between 1406 and 1420, this sprawling palace was off-limits for 500 years until the overthrow of the last Qing emperor in 1911. Today, it's very much open to the public, attracting nearly 20 million visitors each year. Despite the crowds, its massive scale remains humbling.

This article was first published October 2021 and updated February 2024

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• 15 Best Places to Visit in China (2024)

China, a captivating blend of history and natural beauty, beckons travelers with its incredible destinations.

From ancient wonders to modern marvels, there is no shortage of incredible places to explore in this vast nation.

These 15 places we've selected are great ideas for your annual family trip, birthday trip, anniversary trip, bucket list trip, or any other big milestone trip.

Content Preview

• 1. The Great Wall
• 6. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
• 8. Shanghai, Hangzhou & Suzhou
• 9. Huangshan
• 10. The Silk Road
• 11. The Greater Bay Area
• 13. Jiuzhaigou
• 14. The Yangtze River
• 15. Inner Mongolia

1. The Great Wall — Top Landmark of China

The Great Wall is an absolute must-see when visiting China, particularly for first-time travelers. This ancient and magnificent military defense project, spanning tens of thousands of kilometers, continues to emanate a distinct allure.

Aside from the option of visiting the Great Wall via cable car, embarking on a hike along the Wall would also serve as a fantastic means of exploration .

For those with ample time and a penchant for adventure, camping on the Great Wall could be an exhilarating experience.

During summertime visits, it is highly recommended to explore the Great Wall at night to escape the heat. Alternatively, witnessing the sunset and indulging in a prepared picnic would make for a delightful experience.

If you are planning a trip to China and want to make an itinerary based on your interests and requirements, feel free to contact us . Our tour services are personalized .

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

2. Beijing — The Ultimate Destination for First-Time Explorers

Beijing, the capital of China, is the most popular tourist destination in China every year. You could get the maximum experience of Chinese culture and history from one destination.

There you could learn some stories about Chinese emperors by walking in the Forbidden City, which was once their home.

For foodies, Peking Duck is not to be missed, and there are plenty of hidden snack bars in the hutongs.

If you want to experience the bustling (or leisurely retired) life of Beijingers, you could visit a Beijinger family in the hutongs or walk around a local community with markets and parks.

3. Xi'an — Embrace the Essence of Culture in a City Steeped in History

One of the most popular China destinations among foreign travelers, Xi'an particularly attracts tourists on their first trip to China.

The Terracotta Army in Xi'an is considered one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. More than 6,000 life-size terracotta warriors and horses have been unearthed, all with different expressions and poses. Many remain interred.

For a richer experience and better understanding, we would arrange a hands-on experience of making your own clay warriors. Here you could get more ideas for your China trip on  Top 10 Unique Experiences in China You Won't Miss

If you are looking for outdoor activities with your kids, we recommend a bike ride along Xi'an's 600-year-old Ancient City Wall where you could have a good all-around view of the city.

Hanging out and snacking on the Muslim Streets could also be a wonderful choice.

4. Chengdu — A Captivating Haven for Panda Enthusiasts

To make your first trip to China complete with a panda encounter, Chengdu cannot be missed.

Chengdu is the best place to see pandas in China. You could also take part in volunteer programs to take care of giant pandas.

During the program, you would break bamboos and wash some bamboos shoots, clean the glass of their enclosures, make their favorite cakes, watch them being fed, and get a souvenir certificate. See more on How Long to Spend in Chengdu .

5. Tibet — A Bucket List Favorite

Tibet is a sacred place for Buddhists as well as a bucket list destination for many travelers.

It is overflowing with rich Tibetan culture, characteristic Tibetan architectural structures, and unspoiled plateau scenery. Read more on How Long to Spend in Tibet .

There you could explore the Potala Palace, which is an iconic landmark in Tibet, travel to Everest Base camp and stand in front of the "Apex" of the Roof of the World, and gaze at the beauty of Yamdrok Lake and Namtso.

If you are traveling with kids and want to have some special experience, we recommend an interesting camp experience with a nomadic family on their pasture and working together with them. All our tours are customized.

• 5-Days Lhasa Classics and Lake Yamdrok Tour
• 8-Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Tour
• 11-Day Overland Trip from Lhasa to Kathmandu
• 14-Day Tibet Tour with Mt. Kailash and Lake Manasarovar

6. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park — Nature Lover's Paradise

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, featuring precarious peaks, limpid streams, dense forests, large karst caves, and biodiversity, is one of the must-see scenic areas in China.

It was thrust into foreign travelers' eyes via the movie Avatar. The Hallelujah Mountains were inspired (in part) by peaks like Heavenly Pillar in the park.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of a sea of clouds by taking a cable car to the mountaintop. Walk along the steps, and you'll witness spectacular views unveiled before your eyes, offering a unique perspective from various angles.

Additionally, the cool and refreshing air will rejuvenate your mind, making it an ideal summer retreat.

7. Guilin — A Family Adventure Awaits in Nature's Playground

Guilin's idyllic scenery draws millions of tourists from near and far every year. Its marvelous limestone scenery is renowned as "the most beautiful on earth". The fresh air and countryside scenery make it an ideal place to escape industrial pollution.

Relax on a Li River cruise and enjoy its stunning karst landscapes. Go to Yangshuo, the tourism-magnet town near Guilin. You could also enjoy some time relaxing on a bamboo raft ride, bicycle, and/or sidecar tour to explore the countryside.

If you are seeking an adventurous experience with your kids, explore a wild limestone cave or discover a beautiful valley that is still mostly unknown, even to locals.

Going kayaking to enjoy the cool water and appreciate the karst scenery along the river could also be a wonderful family activity, especially in the summer.

8. Shanghai, Suzhou, and Hangzhou — 1 Hour by Bullet Train

High-speed rail gives you some new comfortable and convenient China tour options. Suzhou and Hangzhou are now only an hour's travel by bullet train from Shanghai!

In Shanghai, explore the Bund in-depth and its historical buildings and visit the world's biggest Starbucks and see how AR (augmented reality) is used in the store.

In Hangzhou, you could visit a tea plantation to see how farmers pick tea leaves and discover the process of making tea.

A trip to Suzhou will let you appreciate the charm of traditional Chinese gardens and water towns. See more on How to Plan a Trip to Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou .

9. Huangshan — Where Majestic Mountains Paint an Unforgettable Landscape

The legendary natural scenery is the highlight of Huangshan. It has "the most beautiful mountains in China". The Yellow Mountains, with their seas of clouds, oddly-shaped rocks and pines, and hot springs at the mountain foot, attract many many visitors.

Besides the enchanting mountains, you could also see the beautiful surrounding countryside. Escape to a rural utopia in Bishan village and see how artists have turned this small area into a rural paradise.

• 3-Day Ancient Villages and Yellow Mountains Tour
• 12-Day Shanghai, Huangshan, Hangzhou, Guilin, and Hong Kong Tour - Selected Picturesque China

10. The Silk Road — Embark on an Unconventional Journey Through History

The Silk Road would show you a different China. It was once the most prosperous trade route in China. Even if it is no longer as prosperous as before, it is still proud to show its unique charm, waiting for every visitor to find its brilliance.

You would see marvelous landscapes with unique Danxia landforms, pristine deserts, and crystal lakes. Visit the old Mogao Caves to see fine murals and learn about how Buddhism entered China. See more on How Long to Spend on the Silk Road .

Feel its exotic culture in Xinjiang by visiting its lively bazaars, and mosques, and meeting friendly locals.

• 7-Day Xinjiang Highlights Tour
• 13-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Dunhuang–Urumqi–Shanghai Tour - Silk Road Highlights and China's Gateway Cities
• More 21-Day The Great Silk Road Tour

11. The Greater Bay Area (Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau) — Unveiling a Visa-Friendly Paradise

With its unique blend of cultures, this vibrant region offers many attractions.

From exploring the bustling streets of Hong Kong and admiring the skyline, to experiencing the glamorous Portuguese architecture in Macau and indulging in delicious Cantonese cuisine in Guangdong, there is something for everyone.

Besides, you could explore more in Guangdong to discover its Lingnan culture, such as watching amazing lion dancing and learning the Wing Chun style of kung fu in Foshan .

Hong Kong and Macau offer visa-free access to numerous international tourists, while Guangdong province also allows visitors to make use of the 144 visa-free transit policy .

12. Yunnan — Where Outdoor Adventures Meet Serene Natural Beauty

Located in Southwest China, Yunnan enjoys pleasant weather, warm in winter and cool in summer.

It is the most diverse and colorful area in China. There you could hike across Tiger Leaping Gorge, which is one of the deepest gorges on the planet, visit the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, enjoy a lazy time in the old towns, visit a non-public dormitory of Songzanlin Monastery, bike with the refreshing breezes of Erhai Lake...

All our tours can be customized. Contact us to create a trip according to your group size, time, budget, interests, and other requirements.

• 8-Day Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La Tour - Meet the Amazing Beauty of Yunnan
• 9-Day Yunnan Family Tour - Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La

13. Jiuzhaigou — Immerse in the Serene Splendor of Lakes and Natural Beauty

Jiuzhaigou, located in Sichuan province, is a must-visit destination in China, especially for nature enthusiasts.

Its colorful lakes, cascading waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and unique ecosystem make it a fairyland.

Take leisurely walks along the wooden boardwalks, immersing yourself in the serenity.

14. The Yangtze River — Embrace Serenity and Rekindle Your Affinity as Couples

The Yangtze River, the longest river in China and Asia, would offer stunning and diverse landscapes along its course.

A cruise offers leisurely couple time and provides several typical China-culture-related onboard activities.

Embarking on a cruise along the Yangtze, you would be amazed by the majestic Three Gorges, featuring towering cliffs, misty mountains, and serene waters.

The mesmerizing scenery of the Gorges changes with the seasons, from vibrant greenery in spring and summer to enchanting autumn foliage. As the river continues, picturesque countryside and terraced fields unfold, showcasing the rural charm of China.

Along the way, cultural and historical sites such as Fengdu Ghost City and Shibaozhai Pagoda provide insightful glimpses into China's rich heritage.

15. Inner Mongolia — Uncover Extraordinary Landscapes and Adventures

Inner Mongolia, a vast region in northern China, is also a destination that should not be missed.

The grasslands, stretching as far as the eye can see, offer a unique opportunity to experience the nomadic way of life. You could also stay overnight in a traditional Mongolian yurt to experience their traditional lifestyle .

Adventure out into Kubuqi Desert's hinterland to escape crowds and enjoy all kinds of interesting desert activities.

If you want to explore Mongolian culture, don't miss the Naadam Festival.

Tour China with Us

Below are recommended China tour itineraries for you, including the most popular places from the list above.

For a different combination of China cities, or to tour more of China your way, contact us with your favorite China highlights and we'll tailor-make your dream tour. All of our tours can be tailor-made.

• 11-Day Beijing- Xi'an-Guilin/Yangshuo- Shanghai Tour
• 2-Week Beijing- Xi'an-Zhangjiajie-Guili-Shanghai Tour
• Find some inspiration from our popular China tours

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in China

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Jan 24, 2024

Ever since the world first discovered China through the writings of adventurer Marco Polo more than 700 years ago, this large Asian country has come to be regarded as the embodiment of all that is mysterious and exotic. Even now, after decades of economic growth, this vast country has lost none of its fascination. Indeed, the contrast between China's ancient customs and the new ultra-modern state that is developing has only increased the fascination with a culture that dates back many millennia.

It's a culture that is much celebrated by the Chinese themselves, as evidenced by the preservation of such important historic sites as the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace in Beijing, each recalling the days of China's emperors. And then, of course, there's the famous Great Wall, winding for 6,700 kilometers all the way from the Yellow Sea to Central Asia, while its countless shrines exude the spirit of age-old Eastern religions.

Thanks to its size, China as a tourist destination offers limitless scope for exploration. Whether you choose to travel aboard a luxury cruise ship through the picturesque Yangtze Gorges, visit a bustling city, or seek out the tranquillity of an ancient temple, this country is full of incredible experiences and sightseeing possibilities.

Discover fascinating, unusual, and adventurous things to do with our list of the top tourist attractions in China.

1. The Great Wall of China

2. the forbidden city & the imperial palace, beijing, 3. the terracotta army, xi'an, 4. the summer palace, beijing, 5. cruising the li river, guilin, 6. chengdu research base of giant panda breeding, sichuan, 7. the yangtze river and the three gorges, 8. the classical gardens of suzhou, jiangsu, 9. the potala palace, tibet, 10. shanghai's promenade: the bund, 11. hangzhou's historic west lake, 12. the mausoleum of light: the northern imperial tomb, shenyang, 13. leshan giant buddha, sichuan, 14. the hong kong skyline, 15. zhangjiajie national forest park, hunan.

"Nobody can be a true hero unless he has been on the Great Wall" goes the popular Chinese saying, one that clearly demonstrates the importance placed upon this unique ancient monument.

Known in Chinese as 'Changcheng', or the Long Wall, the magnificent Great Wall of China stretches more than 6,000 kilometers from the fortresses of Shanhaiguan in the east all the way to Jiayuguan in the west. Along the way, it passes through Hebei, Tientsin, and Beijing , where the best-preserved sections of the wall can be visited, as well as Inner Mongolia, Ningxia, and Gansu.

Averaging six to eight meters in height but rising as high as 16 meters and wide enough in places for five horses or 10 men to pass, the wall boasts numerous battlements and watchtowers. Some of the wall's oldest fortifications date back as far as the 7th century BC, with the best-known areas added around 210 BC when its various sections were joined together.

Today, the most visited section of the wall is near Badaling Pass northwest of Beijing, easily reached by public transport or organized tours. Other restored sections worth a visit include the section near Gubeikou , 130 kilometers from Beijing; and in Mutianyu , just 70 kilometers northeast of Beijing.

Location: Huairou District, China

China's largest and most important building, also known as the Imperial Palace, is situated in the very heart of Beijing and is a must-see when visiting the country. Started during the Yuan Dynasty between 1271and 1368, much of the complex seen today was built between 1406 and 1420.

Really many splendid palaces in one, this sprawling complex was the residence of 24 Ming and Qing Emperors whose presence forbade the entry of anyone other than the imperial family and their courtesans. Covering some 720,000 square meters and protected by a 10-meter-high wall with watchtowers and a wide moat, this massive complex consists of areas set aside for ceremonial and administrative purposes, as well as a private residence used by the emperor.

While it can take many hours to see everything, highlights include the five white marble Golden River Bridges; the Hall of Supreme Harmony, a 35-meter-tall building housing the imperial throne; and the exquisite emperor's banquet hall (the Hall of Preserving Harmony).

The Palace Museum with its large collection of art and artifacts from the Ming and Qing dynasties is another must-see.

Spread across an area of more than 720,000 square meters, this impressive nearly 100-year-old museum contains historic buildings that themselves date back to the early 1400s . It takes a lot of time to explore, so be prepared to spend at least a day here. If you can, do a little advance research using the museum's official English-language website to pre-plan the exhibits you're most interested in visiting.

Highlights include fine examples of paintings and ceramics. The museum also houses the country's vast collection of important works of art made from jade and bronze. English language museum tours are available.

Other important attractions in the vicinity of the Imperial Palace include the famous Tiananmen Square , and the Temple of Heaven . One of the country's most important religious sites,this impressive temple dates back to the 15th century.

Address: 4 Jingshan Front St, Dongcheng, Beijing, China

It was while digging wells on the outskirts of Xi'an in the 1970s that farmers stumbled across what was to be China's most important archeological find: the Terracotta Army.

Distributed over three large underground pits and built to guard the First Emperor's tomb, the find included more than 8,000 life-size warriors, some 520 horses, and more than 100 chariots, along with numerous other non-military characters dating from around 280 BC. Although some were severely damaged due to the passing of time, many of the statues unearthed have been painstakingly re-assembled and stand as a testament to the importance bestowed upon the emperor and the afterlife.

This remarkable find is part of Emperor Qin Shi Huang's Mausoleum Site Park and is one of China's most important tourist destinations. It offers the unforgettable experience of standing in front of this assembly of soldiers and horses as if inspecting a centuries-old parade. English-language guided tours are available.

Address: Lintong District, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China

An easy 15-kilometer commute from Beijing, the sumptuous Imperial Summer Palace (Yíhé Yuán) is set amid more than 700 acres of beautiful parkland and is one of China's most visited attractions. While the palace itself was built in 1153, its large lake was added in the 14th century to enhance the Imperial Gardens .

Highlights include the magnificent Hall of Benevolence and Longevity (Renshou Dian), with its throne; and the beautiful Great Theatre, a private three-story structure built in 1891 to satisfy the imperial family's love of opera. This historic venue is still used for performances of traditional Chinese plays and musical events and is worth a visit for a performance or show.

Other highlights include the Hall of Happiness and Longevity (Le Shou Tang Hall) with its lovely gardens and courtyards, as well as many miles of picturesque pathways and walking trails.

If time allows, try to also take in the ruins of the Old Summer Palace in Yuanmingyuan Park. Said to have once been one of the country's most elaborate and architecturally attractive palaces, this once impressive structure was destroyed by colonial forces in the mid-1800s.

Address: 19 Xinjiangongmen Rd, Haidian District, China

The town of Guilin in the northeast corner of Guangxi boasts some of China's most beautiful countryside. It's famous for the Li River which meanders through the town and surrounding karst mountains.

While for hundreds of years this unique scenery has attracted poets and artists and has been the subject of countless fairy tales and legends, these days, it's popular with tourists from around the world wanting to see this natural splendor up close.

The best way to enjoy the area is to take a cruise along the Li River . The most popular stretch is from Guilin to Yangshuo, where the river winds peacefully through some 80 kilometers of remarkable rock formations and caves with romantic names such as the Mount of Unique Beauty , Elephant Trunk Hill, and Reed Flute Cave .

You can choose from a tourist cruise ship to small bamboo punts, and depending upon the type of boat used, trips can take anywhere from a few hours to multiple days.

No visit to China would be complete without at least one panda experience. While the country's top zoos boast many fine specimens of these fascinating creatures, the best place to see them in a close approximation to their natural habitat is at the excellent Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in Chengdu in the province of Sichuan.

Here, you'll have the chance to watch as many as 80 pandas go about their daily routines, from foraging to playing in the facility's large park-like setting. In addition to viewing these splendid animals up close, you'll learn a great deal about them from the many permanent exhibits and displays detailing ongoing conservation efforts to safeguard their future.

If possible, try to time your visit for the morning feeding sessions. Not only are the pandas at their most active, it's also when you'll get some memorable photos. Better still, sign up for one of the unique experiential volunteer programs that will have you involved in the feeding and care of these cuddly creatures - and possibly even holding a baby panda. English language tours are available.

Address: 1375 Xiongmao Ave, Chenghua District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Chengdu & Easy Day Trips

Known in China as Chang Jiang ("Long River"), the mighty Yangtze River extends more than 6,000 kilometers, making it the longest and most important river in China. It also has the distinction of being the third longest in the world after the Amazon and the Nile.

Flowing from Tibet in the west to Shanghai in the east through eight provinces, the Yangtze has, for more than 2,000 years, been China's major transportation route as some 2,700 kilometers are navigable. Its vast catchment area, with its 700 tributaries, covers about one-fifth of the total area of the country and encompasses a quarter of the country's agricultural land.

While its immense length ensures the river can be visited at numerous points in China, by far the most popular for tourists is the beautiful Three Gorges. Named Qutang, Wu, and Xiling, they cover a 200-kilometer stretch between the towns of Fengjie and Yichang. In places a mix of raging torrents and dangerous shallows, here the river winds its way through the gorges and their rugged cliffs and high mountain peaks in a stretch of scenery as dramatic as the Grand Canyon.

Numerous sightseeing options are available, from luxurious riverboat cruises focusing on the region's many historical attractions and places of scenic beauty to challenging adventure tours along the most dramatic sections of the river.

Considered one of the world's most important historic gardens and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Classical Gardens of Suzhou should rank highly on your China travel itinerary. Located in the historic city of Suzhou in Jiangsu province, these magnificent gardens were established in the 11th century, at a time when the city was experiencing unprecedented growth, and were among some 270 or more gardens planted here.

Of the surviving restored gardens, the most famous is the delightful Garden of Lingering . This seven-acre garden was laid out in 1800 on the site of a park originally created during the Ming Dynasty. One of the most famous garden complexes in China, it boasts a pool, several attractive buildings, a man-made hill, a grove of peach trees, and a lovely covered pathway on the walls of which hang more than three hundred stone tablets engraved with old Chinese characters.

Also worth visiting is the Garden of the Cang Lang Ting Pavilion . This two-acre garden offers many unique features, including a double arcade connecting the inner and outer sections.

Address: 178 Dongbei St, Gusu District, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China

Another of China's most recognizable historic structures is the magnificent Potala Palace in the town of Lhasa, Tibet. Constructed as a fortress and residence for the Dalai Lama, it was for centuries a center of political and religious power and contains many of the religion's most important treasures.

The first of the two Potala Palaces, the Red Palace , was built in the 17th century and contains the complex's most important shrines. These are found in the Enthronement Hall, the walls of which are covered with murals depicting scenes from the lives of the Dalai Lamas and the Tibetan kings. Other highlights of the Red Palace are its many vast halls devoted to the religion's teachings and the elaborate tombs, known as "stupas," of a number of Dalai Lamas.

The equally impressive White Palace was completed in 1648 and includes the sleeping quarters, studies, and reception rooms, most untouched since 1959 when the Dalai Lama fled Tibet. While in Lhasa, be sure to visit the superb Jewel Gardens . Part of the Dalai Lama's summer residence, these 90-acre gardens were first started in the 1840s and encompass everything from grand palaces and pavilions to pleasant lakes.

Address: 35 Central Beijing Road, Lhasa, Tibet, China

A remarkable act of smart city planning and preservation can be seen in Shanghai's splendid riverside promenade, the Zhongshan Lu, perhaps better known as the Bund (Wàitan). As you stroll this wide pedestrian zone along the Huangpu Jiang River, you'll almost forget you're bang-smack in the middle of China's largest city (Shanghai's population exceeds 24 million people).

Famous for its European feel, a fact owed to the district's past as the location of the city's International Settlement, the Bund is popular for its 52 preserved English- and French-influenced buildings, many now restaurants, cafés, stores, and art galleries. Representing a variety of influences from Gothic to Renaissance styles including a number of Art Deco buildings, the architecture includes highlights such as the old harbor customs office, with its bell tower, and the majestic Peace Hotel.

For the best views of the Bund, visit the 468-meter Oriental Pearl Tower on the opposite bank of the Huangpu Jiang River. If time allows, be sure to also visit the Yu Garden. Known affectionately as the "Garden of Happiness," this must-see garden can trace its roots back to 1559 when it was laid out. Many of the original structures survive to this day.

Address: Zhongshan East 1st Rd, Wai Tan, Huangpu, Shanghai, China

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Shanghai & Easy Day Trips

Few cities in China can boast quite the same concentration of splendid historic sites and ancient temples as the city of Hangzhou (Hangchow). Capital of Zhejiang province and located at the southernmost end of China's famous Grand Canal , much of this rich collection is gathered around lovely West Lake, a six-kilometer-square stretch of water in the heart of the old city which is surrounded by numerous hills, pagodas, and temples.

Divided into five distinct sections by man-made causeways dating back as far as the 11th century, it's a marvelous area to explore on foot as you cross from one stretch of water to the next, only to be met with another cluster of fine old buildings. It's particularly pleasant in spring when its many peach trees are blossoming.

Part of the fun is lingering on the lake's many fine old bridges, one of the best being the Broken Bridge (Duanqiao) linking the Baidi Causeway with the shore, and exploring Little Paradise Island with its four mini-lakes linked by the zigzagging Bridge of the Nine Arches .

Be sure to hop aboard one of the many tour boats and small pleasure craft available to whisk you around the lake. And if time permits, stick around for the fun musical fountain show held each evening.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hangzhou

In China's mountainous northeastern region is the old city of Shenyang. This important center for trade and culture is home to the Mausoleum of Light (Zhaoling), also known as the Northern Imperial Tomb.

One of northeastern China's most important historic sites, it's included on the UNESCO World Heritage Site's list of Imperial Tombs of the Ming and Qing Dynasties and is noted for its unique architectural style: a combination of traditionally arranged Chinese burial sites and castle-like buildings of the early Qing period.

Buried here in a vast site covering more than 180,000 square meters that took eight years to complete is Emperor Huang Taiji, who reigned from 1626-35. The site is notable for its 'Path of Souls', a laneway lined with stone columns and sculptures of the emperor's favorite horses.

Another important site is the imposing Imperial Palace dating from the early Qing era, the second largest completely preserved palace complex in China after the Imperial Palace in Beijing. The complex served as a residence for the first Qing Emperors and includes several splendid courtyards around which are grouped numerous buildings, including the Hall of Exalted Government (Chongzheng Dian) housing the imperial throne.

Location: Huanggu District, Shenyang, China

" The mountain is a Buddha and the Buddha is a mountain. " So goes the famous Chinese saying, one that's attributed to the spectacular 71-meter-tall Leshan Giant Buddha. And it certainly makes sense as you stand at its feet as the colossal statue towers high above you.

Started in AD 713 by a Buddhist monk and completed 90 years later, this important religious icon is carved entirely from a stone cliff face and is the largest Buddha sculpture in the world. Representing the Buddha Maitreya, the statue is even more dramatic given its location overlooking the river that it was designed to appease which had often proven treacherous for shipping.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Giant Buddha continues to draw huge numbers of pilgrims from across the globe and is widely regarded as one of China's must-visit attractions. Easily accessible from the city of Chengdu , the Leshan Giant Buddha can be reached by a fun ferry trip from the public docks in Leshan. The scenic park in which the Buddha is set is also worth exploring, so be sure to allocate sufficient time to your itinerary.

Address: 2345 Lingyun Rd, Shizhong District, Leshan, Leshan, Sichuan, China

Widely considered one of the world's most dramatic city skylines - as much a result of its having one of the highest concentrations of skyscrapers as it is the presence of the tall hills that frame them - Hong Kong has for decades been the bustling capital of finance and commerce in this part of the Pacific. And it's a cityscape that can be enjoyed from a number of different vantages.

One of the best views is from Victoria Peak on Hong Kong Island, where the skyscrapers frame the city's huge harbor, a special treat after nightfall. Equally stunning is the view from Victoria Harbour itself. Here, you can also take one of Hong Kong's famous ferries. Operated by the Star Ferry company, you can hop aboard and head to various points to wander and explore, such as Kowloon. Or you can simply stay on board and enjoy the views.

If possible, try to time your trip to coincide with the nightly laser extravaganza, a stunning 360-degree laser-light show that uses the harbor's skyscrapers as a magical backdrop. For the best views, try to catch the show from the Kowloon side of Victoria Harbour.

Traveling with family? If so, you'll want to include Hong Kong Disneyland on your travel itinerary. China's first Disney theme park opened in 2005 and while visitors will notice many of the same rides as in the brand's other properties, careful attention was paid to China's cultural heritage. A highlight for fans of Disney's animated movies is the new in 2023 World of Frozen , while 2024 will see the opening of Stark Expo , an area dedicated to the characters of the Marvel universe.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hong Kong

When you first set eyes on Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Hunan province, it's certainly not difficult to see how filmmaker James Cameron was able to draw inspiration from it.

Cameron's box office hit Avatar , could well have been set in this area of stunning natural beauty, its many unique pillar-like rock formations looking like some incredible alien landscape right out of a sci-fi movie. One of the tallest pillars, standing at an impressive 1,080 meters, has been renamed "Avatar Hallelujah Mountain."

This is one of the lesser-known places to visit in China, but it's well worth the effort to get here. In addition to its many natural wonders, which can best be explored as part of an organized tour, the park boasts a number of new man-made attractions. The first to be built was the Bailong Elevator, aka the "Hundred Dragons Sky Lift." Elevating groups of up to 50 people 326 meters skyward in under two minutes, it's an impressive structure and one that offers dramatic views all the way.

Also notable is the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge. Opened in 2016, it's heralded as the world's highest and tallest pedestrian bridge. Standing 300 meters above the ground and extending 430 meters along a spectacular cliff face, it's an attraction that's definitely not recommended for the faint of heart but one of the best things to do if you are looking to add a little adventure to your day.

Location: Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan, China

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40 China travel tips for 2024 (I swear by every one)

Posted by Mike Cairnduff | Updated February 2, 2024 | China blog , Travel

I’ve heard some pretty lousy China travel tips before.

“Bring an inflatable travel pillow”, the so-called experts will insist.

Clearly, they’ve never been to China before.

Having visited practically every corner of the country, let me share with you my best China travel tips.

There are 40 of them for you to enjoy!

Jump to section:

1. Never leave your hotel without toilet paper

Public toilets like these do not have toilet paper. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

You won’t find toilet paper in most Chinese toilets , let alone hot water to wash your hands with.

So, bring toilet paper with you wherever you go, unless you’re going on a luxury tour (and even then, you can’t guarantee it).

2. Always carry hand sanitizer with you

This ties in with number 1. Washing your hands with only cold water, and no soap, doesn’t kill all the germs.

That’s why I recommend carrying a small bottle of hand sanitizer along with your toilet tissue.

3. Pack the right way

Don’t forget the essentials for China. Image by Pixel-Shot on Shutterstock.

No, I don’t mean squeeze everything neatly into those pointless packing cubes.

I mean check out my super-duper packing list for China which outlines everything you should and shouldn’t bring.

If you have an extra-large body, it’ll be hard finding clothes in China that fit, so try not to forget anything.

4. Have your translation app ready

The language barrier in China is real. So, choose a translation app (like Google Translate) and make sure you know how to use it before you arrive.

Find out if you can access it offline while you’re touring, or whether you need a data connection.

The article on China travel apps will help.

5. Get a VPN before you go

If you want to use Wi-Fi in your hotel in China, and not burn through money using data on your own phone plan, you need a VPN in China.

A virtual private network (VPN) is essential to access most major websites, apps, and social media.

Here’s my review of the best ones in China (don’t get a crappy one – it won’t work). Or, if you’re pressed for time, go straight to the one I recommend here:

You need to download it to your devices before you go, not after you arrive in China or it won’t work.

6. Don’t bring a water bottle

Sorry, you’ll need to leave your environmental consciousness in your own country.

Chinese tap water isn’t safe to drink, so unless you want to fill up your bottle with boiled water (which is a pain in the backside), leave your bottle at home.

There are oodles of public water-filling stations across China, but in most cases the water is boiling or warm . Chinese people don’t like drinking cold water.

So, most foreign travelers buy bottled water in China. And hotels usually give you two free bottles per day.

7. Set up digital payments

Cash is barely used in China anymore. Image by Saelanlerez on Shutterstock.

The locals don’t use cards, and cash is almost extinct too.

Everyone uses payment apps – mostly WeChat Pay and Alipay. You can too by downloading one or both of the apps and linking your international bank card.

If you’re uncomfortable handing over your personal details including your passport details (as part of the registration process), you’ll need to use cash in China.

But this will be a pain, as many merchants don’t accept 100 yuan notes, and that’s all the ATMs spit out here. So, bring some low denomination cash (yuan) with you.

I highly recommend using Alipay or WeChat Pay though. It will make life so much easier.

See also: How to count money in Chinese

8. Don’t try to avoid crowds

It’s impossible. Everywhere is crowded in China, unless you’re in the middle of nowhere.

The only thing you can do is get to a tourist attraction just when it opens, or around midday when the hordes of Chinese tourists go off for lunch.

But even then, there’s no guarantee there won’t be other tourists.

When booking flights, tours and hotels , avoid the peak season which is during Chinese New Year and all the national Chinese holidays, which you can look up here .

9. Don’t forget your passport

This might sound silly at first, but it’s not.

You need to show your passport to get into any tourist attraction, as well as to buy and ride the high-speed trains.

The Chinese do the same, but they use their national ID card.

No ID? No entry.

10. Bring a travel adapter/converter

This international travel adapter has saved me a number of times in China. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

Officially, the country runs on 220 V and appliances should have two or three angled prongs.

But there is no consistency among hotels, and you need to make sure you can charge your devices.

That’s why it’s a good idea to bring a travel adapter with all the variations, including the Hong Kong connection (UK type) if you’re heading there too.

Make sure your adapter is a converter too, if you’re from a country like the US which isn’t on 220 V.

11. Don’t tip unless you’re on a private tour (and it’s amazing)

Chinese people don’t tip as it’s not part of their culture. So, why should you?

If you really want to tip, then do it on a foreigners-only private tour where you received mind-blowingly great service.

There are some money-hungry guides on these foreigner tours and they will openly talk about tips.

12. Avoid coach tours

Speaking of tours, don’t go on those cheap and nasty big bus tours, e.g. to the Great Wall of China.

They’ll take you to the busiest, tourist section of the wall, which is Badaling.

You’ll be pressed for time too, because the guides will insist on taking you to a silk or tea factory where they make a commission on purchases.

And afterwards, they’ll take you to a huge hall for lunch where you’ll eat average, unauthentic food among hundreds of other noisy tourists.

Check out this page for travel tips specific to the nation’s capital, Beijing.

13. Try to visit smaller cities

I find people are friendlier in small cities too. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love most of the major cities.

Take Beijing, for example, which is jam-packed with culture and history .

There’s so much to do there, like visiting the enormous Forbidden City, pretty Summer Palace, and the infamous Tiananmen Square.

But, you really should take the time to visit some of the lesser-known cities, where you’ll still find amazing attractions, tasty local food, and interesting things to do.

Plus, there are significantly fewer tourists, if that matters to you.

My new favorite Chinese city is Yinchuan. It’s a northern desert city that has incredible things to do , and not many foreigners venture there.

There are also lots of incredible places in Southern China, especially Yunnan and Guangxi provinces.

I recommend starting in a nice modern city like Kunming or Nanning and then exploring from there.

14. Turn a blind eye to the spitting and coughing in your face

A lot has been written about this on The Helpful Panda (including an article I dedicated to it here ), so I won’t go into too much detail now.

All I’ll say is this – if you venture out of the big tourist centers, you’ll experience people spitting right at your feet, and coughing up their lungs without covering their mouth.

The deeper you get into China’s smaller cities, the worse it gets. Try to ignore it, if you can.

The article on tips for your first time in China may help you.

15. Wear dark running shoes

The ideal shoes for China. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

Chinese streets are dirty, and your lovely clean shoes won’t be so lovely and clean within a few days of traveling.

My advice – bring black or dark colored walking shoes.

I’ve written a whole guide on what to wear in China if you need help.

16. Buy comprehensive travel insurance

Medical care is expensive in China.

If you’re hit by a car (many Chinese drivers don’t obey pedestrian zebra crossings), and you need to be hospitalized, you could be up for a small fortune. The Chinese government won’t foot the bill.

You can read my guide on medical insurance for China which talks more about this.

17. Don’t expect to learn any Chinese on a short trip

At most, you’ll learn “ni hao” (hello) and “bai bai” (bye bye).

It’s a really hard language to learn , and most foreigners who can speak the lingo have studied it for years, or have lived in China (or both).

As I mentioned earlier, have your translation app ready!

If you do want to learn some survival Mandarin before you arrive in China, I recommend LTL for online classes. They also have schools in China.

You can get my discount for LTL here .

18. Visit the Big Three

I highly recommend a trip to the Terracotta Army in Xi’an. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

If you want to see the most famous places on your trip to China, then head to:

• The Great Wall near Beijing – it’s bloody amazing
• The Terracotta Army in Xi’an – it’s also bloody amazing
• Panda sanctuary in Chengdu – the big fluff balls are bloody amazing.

The only challenge is these three cities are nowhere near each other. If you only have time to visit two of the best places, I suggest the first two.

19. Land in Shanghai

Shanghai is a good choice for first-time travelers. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

If you’re prone to culture shock, fly into Shanghai as your starting point.

It’s China’s most cosmopolitan city, and it’s where you’ll find all the creature comforts and many people can speak English there too.

After a few days, you’ll be a China pro and you can go on to tackle Beijing and the rest.

Check out  this page for travel tips specific to Shanghai.

20. Finish in Hong Kong

If you want to visit Hong Kong , do it on the way home, i.e. make it your last stop.

This is because you’ll most likely have a single-entry visa to mainland China, and so once you leave the mainland and enter HK, you would have to apply for another visa if you wanted to get back into the mainland.

Alternatively, you could make Hong Kong your very first stop on your China trip.

21. Get your tour guide’s recommendations on food

Constantly hound your tour guide for the best food and restaurant recommendations.

If you don’t, you could end up in those big soulless food halls en route to the attractions.

Chinese food is incredibly diverse and delicious, and it’s nothing like the Chinese food you eat back home.

Whether you’re into meat, vegies, spicy food, street food or yummy desserts , you’ll be spoiled for choice.

22. Get your visa sorted early

Unless you’re exempt from needing a visa, such as you qualify for Visa Free Transit, then you’ll need a  China tourist visa .

The process can take time, so don’t leave it to the last minute.

23. Avoid the no-frills Chinese airlines

Yuck. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

The Chinese aren’t known for their great service, and this is very true when it comes to Chinese airlines.

You can do what I’ve done and fly with a budget carrier for a low price (and a horrible experience) or fork out a few more dollars for a better carrier.

Otherwise, you could stick with a homegrown carrier that you know and love, which might be even more expensive.

Every time I go to China, I say to myself “Must fly with Qantas” but then somehow, I get swayed by the worse, cheaper option! Ahhh…

The largest Chinese airlines are China Southern, Air China, and China Eastern (and I would rank them in that order for service).

If you want to see how terrible their airlines can be, read my Beijing Capital Airlines review .

24. Entertain yourself

Some of the Chinese airlines, especially the smaller ones, have limited English movies on board. Or, the movies are really, really bad.

If you’re the kind of person who gets bored on long-haul flights, make sure you’ve got other ways to entertain yourself.

Some ideas:

• A tablet or laptop loaded with lots of movies and shows
• A book – physical or e-reader
• Music, magazines, games and playing cards.

Having some stuff to entertain yourself is especially important if you’re traveling solo .

See also: How long does it take to get to China?

25. Be wary of anyone that approaches you

Chinese people are curious and will stare at you. And in rural areas, they won’t stare, they will gawk.

However, they’re also generally shy and won’t be comfortable approaching you, as they don’t like making mistakes when they speak English .

This means they will leave you alone, which is great (especially for an introvert like me!).

So, if someone approaches you and invites you somewhere using great English, be extremely careful.

Unfortunately, there are some well-known tourist scams and I’d hate you to get caught out!

They almost always involve being invited to a place where you have to cough up an insane amount of money.

The most common one is known as the tea ceremony scam .

While I haven’t fallen for the tea ceremony trick yet, little old me has been scammed in China.

I was 19 at the time, and I had just flown into Pudong Airport in Shanghai.

An impeccably dressed man approached me. He said to follow him for a taxi (at this point, the alarm bells should have gone off, but I was young and naive).

He took me to a private car, locked my suitcase in the trunk, and then told me the exorbitant amount I owed the driver to get to my destination.

I was shattered.

But it was a good lesson learned. Now, if anyone approaches me in China, it’s an instant “no”, regardless.

26. Leave your boob tube at home

The local girls usually wear flowy and loose clothing , particularly when it comes to tops.

By all means, you can wear tight-fitting and revealing tops, but just be aware that men may leer at you.

The females I’ve traveled with have hated this. And I don’t blame them – they’ve even been filmed.

I’ve written a whole article on what to not to wear in China if you’re keen to learn more.

Spoiler alert: There aren’t too many things I recommend against wearing. China is fairly relaxed when it comes to clothing.

27. Have your hotel address handy

Multi-lingual directions are the best. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

I strongly recommend having your accommodation address on your phone in Chinese characters.

I always have it written down too, just in case my phone dies or I can’t bring up the information.

Without it, your taxi or Didi (China’s Uber) driver won’t know where to go. The name of the hotel won’t be enough, as Chinese cities are huge and there are countless places to stay.

28. Bring masks

Even though you don’t need to wear masks in China for COVID-19 anymore, it’s worth bringing a few in case you’re traveling around China and there’s a bad season of flu.

As I mentioned earlier, China is a crowded place and many people don’t cover their mouth when they cough and sneeze.

You could also invest in a proper anti-pollution mask if you’re headed for China’s smaller cities where the pollution can be nasty .

29. Travel in your preferred season

Most so-called China travel experts will tell you to come in spring or fall, regardless.

My advice is to travel in the season that you prefer. I personally prefer cold weather over hot weather, so I’d never aim to arrive in China in the middle of July.

Equally, tourist attractions aren’t as busy in the winter season (except during Lunar New Year), which is definitely an advantage to travel in this season.

Of course though, the best time to come in terms of pleasant or moderate weather is early spring or autumn .

But it’s ultimately your choice – the Chinese will welcome you (and your fat wallet) in any season.

30. Catch the train

China’s high-speed train network is insanely good. It’s clean, modern, and trains run perfectly on time.

Usually, it’s cheaper to take the train than fly domestically if your cities are relatively close. Plus, some of the high-speed train stations are connected to the city’s underground subway network.

So, it makes getting to your final destination easier and cheaper.

There are both first- and second-class carriages on the bullet trains. The difference is first-class passengers have more room – both legroom and chair width.

I’ve traveled on both first and second. If you have the money, I say go first-class (but I’m tall and I appreciate the extra room, so I’m probably a bit biased).

You can buy high-speed train tickets for China here .

31. Take extra care on the roads

A shared path in Nanjing spells danger. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

I touched on this point earlier.

Chinese drivers are a law unto themselves and zebra crossings are not necessarily safe. Try to cross the road in a large group, or tailgate someone.

And it sounds silly to say, but look in every direction when you cross the road. Vehicles don’t follow the rules you’re used to like, like obeying one-road streets.

But even if you play it super safe, you’ll have to watch for the electric scooters which are allowed to speed down the sidewalk.

32. Try to let things go

You’ll experience people cutting the queue right in front of you, and you may think people aren’t respecting your personal space.

This is China, and personal space doesn’t really exist.

If you can, try to let it go. It’s definitely not personal.

This is easier said than done (but if you’re living in China , you might get used to it).

33. Master chopsticks

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dW0Js2QpTPc Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: How to use chopsticks – 3 tips you should know (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dW0Js2QpTPc)

Well, not really master them, but at least try and get used to them before you arrive.

You won’t find knives and forks at restaurants in China, unless you happen to stumble upon a steak restaurant.

You can buy cute little travel cutlery sets if the thought of using chopsticks gives you nightmares.

34. Choose your restaurant wisely

Lots of restaurants in China have photos of the food, either on the board or in the printed menu.

This makes it so easy for foreign travelers. You simply point at the dish you want.

If you’re a fussy eater, or you really want to make sure you’re not eating something gross , then pull out your translation app.

35. Prepare for spice

My friend struggling with all that spicy food! Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

Chinese food is God damn spicy!

While big cities like Chongqing and Chengdu in Sichuan province are known for their spicy dishes , I’ve found that restaurants in so many other places love serving up food that burns your mouth.

Tell the waiter “Bù yào là” (不要辣) and the chef will go easy on the chili. If you’re not confident saying that, just show them on your translation app.

Just note they won’t always follow your instructions. Sometimes the chef will insist that at least a bit of chili is included. I’ve been served bright red broth even though I said no chili.

36. Get your jabs

The only mandatory vaccination for China is yellow fever. But this only applies if you’re arriving from a country known for the disease.

This means there are no mandatory vaccinations for most people, including those flying directly to China from the USA , UK, Europe and Australia.

However, there are some recommended vaccinations for all travelers, as outlined here .

I also suggest staying away from animals, even stray dogs and cats. I’ve been scratched by a feral cat in China. The last thing you want is rabies!

37. Bring multiple cards, and tell your bank

It’s a big risk if you only bring one ATM card to China. You could lose it, or a machine could swallow it up.

I always bring multiple cards when I’m traveling to China. Even when I’m flying there, I put one card in my locked suitcase, while the others are in my wallet.

This is just in case I lose my wallet. It’s happened before.

I’ve traveled with friends in China – some of whom have only come with one card – and they’ve had to rely on me when they left their card in the ATM!

Also, tell your bank you’re visiting China, because they could put a block on your card if they see all the Chinese transactions (and yep, that’s happened to me before too).

38. Consider your SIM card

If you need or want to make phone calls from China back to your country, do a little research before you arrive.

Here are some options:

• Use your phone like you normally would – by far the most expensive option
• See if your phone company has an option to make cheaper calls while you travel
• Buy a travel SIM before you go, and put it in your phone (your phone must be unlocked)
• Buy a local SIM in China (your phone must be unlocked) – a good option if you’re in China for a while.

I recommend using a messaging app like WhatsApp , which you can use for free by using your hotel’s Wi-Fi.

Just remember to get your VPN before you arrive, as there are issues using messaging apps in China without a VPN.

39. Haggle at markets

Always bargain at markets like these. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

Chinese people are born hagglers, and never accept the first price they’re given in places like markets.

If you’re not happy with the price, simply walk away and the merchant will usually come chasing.

Don’t worry if you can’t speak a word of Mandarin, the merchant will show you the price on their phone’s calculator.

40. Travel respectfully

It goes without saying, but don’t be an idiot when you travel.

Be respectful of the local Chinese culture , and don’t say anything controversial about the Chinese government.

And, just like you would in other countries, be respectful if you’re entering holy places. So, keep quiet and don’t take photos of monks.

If you’re headed somewhere like Xinjiang and want to step into a mosque, you’ll need to take your shoes off.

They’re my China travel tips, all wrapped up for 2024

Wow, that was quite the list, wasn’t it? I hope it didn’t overwhelm you.

At the end of the day, as long as you’ve got your passport, wallet and phone, then you’ll be able to do anything you want.

And whatever you do, don’t forget your VPN. See your options here or tap on the button below.

Let me know in the comments if you have any helpful suggestions of your own.

You’re going to have a great time!

I hope you learned a thing or two from my list of China travel tips. Now check out the best China travel apps so you’re digitally ready to go.

Main image credit: Supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

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Faq about my traveling to china tips, do i need a china travel vaccine.

The only mandatory vaccination for China is yellow fever, but it only applies if you’re arriving from a country known for the disease. This means there are no mandatory vaccinations for most people who visit China. However, some vaccines (e.g. typhoid, malaria) are recommended depending on where you’re going in China, as well as the kind of activities you plan on doing there.

How do I get a China travel visa?

Many countries now have a China Visa Service Center they can attend in person, or by applying through the post. For countries that don’t have a service center (e.g. USA), you need to apply at your nearest Chinese embassy in person or via a visa agent.

China travel: is it safe?

Yes, China is very safe for foreign tourists, especially when compared to other countries. China has a really low crime rate, and crimes against foreigners are practically unheard of. There’s an insane amount of surveillance cameras in China, too.

Can you travel China without a guide?

Yes, you can. The only exception is Tibet in Western China, where you need to be on a group tour. This is due to the historic sensitivities regarding Tibet.

Commercial relationship disclosure: The Helpful Panda has commercial arrangements with organizations that may appear on this page, such as affiliate links. See our terms for more info.

Mike Cairnduff

Mike has lived and worked in China, and has traveled extensively across the country. He loves Chinese food and has a keen interest in Chinese culture. You can follow him on X and LinkedIn .

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How Beijing Influences the Influencers

By Paul Mozur ,  Raymond Zhong ,  Aaron Krolik ,  Aliza Aufrichtig and Nailah Morgan Dec. 13, 2021

• Share full article

INSIDE A CHINESE PROPAGANDA CAMPAIGN

We are on the outskirts of Shanghai today at the most incredible hotel we’ve ever stayed at.

It’s the first in the world built inside a quarry.

Stick around when we show you around.

Catch you later.

Millions have watched Lee and Oli Barrett’s YouTube dispatches from China. The father and son duo visit hotels in exotic locales, tour out-of-the-way villages, sample delicacies in bustling markets and undergo traditional ear cleanings.

The Barretts are part of a crop of new social media personalities who paint cheery portraits of life as foreigners in China — and also hit back at criticisms of Beijing’s authoritarian governance, its policies toward ethnic minorities and its handling of the coronavirus.

“All the West are hoping to do is to destabilize the area of Xinjiang to stop the rise of China.”

Xinjiang Genocide - The Campaign to Take Down CHINA Barrett

“Maybe it was America first to infect the world with coronavirus.”

COVID Started in America First?! The JaYoe Nation

“No one in the West could possibly imagine that China would be this successful. And this is the big reason why Western media is always attacking China.”

The Real Reason Western Media Lies about China Cyrus Janssen

“A genocide, they say. A genocide. There’s no proof of genocide. There is no proof of atrocity. All this has been debunked many times.”

Everything you should know about Xinjiang Uyghur Genocide Allegation HybridWar on China in 9 minutes Best China Info

The videos have a casual, homespun feel. But on the other side of the camera often stands a large apparatus of government organizers, state-controlled news media and other official amplifiers — all part of the Chinese government’s widening attempts to spread pro-Beijing messages around the planet.

State-run news outlets and local governments have organized and funded pro-Beijing influencers’ travel, according to government documents and the creators themselves. They have paid or offered to pay the creators. They have generated lucrative traffic for the influencers by sharing videos with millions of followers on YouTube, Twitter and Facebook.

With official media outlets’ backing, the creators can visit and film in parts of China where the authorities have obstructed foreign journalists’ reporting .

Most of the YouTubers have lived in China for years and say their aim is to counter the West’s increasingly negative perceptions of the country. They decide what goes into their videos, they say, not the Communist Party.

But even if the creators do not see themselves as propaganda tools, Beijing is using them that way. Chinese diplomats and representatives have shown their videos at news conferences and promoted their creations on social media. Together, six of the most popular of these influencers have garnered more than 130 million views on YouTube and more than 1.1 million subscribers.

Sympathetic foreign voices are part of Beijing’s increasingly ambitious efforts to shape the world conversation about China. The Communist Party has marshaled diplomats and state news outlets to carry its narratives and drown out criticism, often with the help of armies of shadowy accounts that amplify their posts.

In effect, Beijing is using platforms like Twitter and YouTube, which the government blocks inside China to prevent the uncontrolled spread of information, as propaganda megaphones for the wider world.

“China is the new super-abuser that has arrived in global social media,” said Eric Liu, a former content moderator for Chinese social media. “The goal is not to win, but to cause chaos and suspicion until there is no real truth.”

The State Behind the Camera

Raz Gal-Or started making funny videos when he was a college student in Beijing. Now, the young Israeli brings his millions of subscribers along as he interviews both ordinary people and fellow expatriates about their lives in China.

In a video this spring , Mr. Gal-Or visits cotton fields in Xinjiang to counter allegations of forced labor in the region.

“It’s totally normal here,” he declares after enjoying kebabs with some workers. “People are nice, doing their job, living their life.”

His videos do not mention the internal government documents, firsthand testimonials and visits by journalists that indicate that the Chinese authorities have held hundreds of thousands of Xinjiang’s Muslims in re-education camps.

They also do not mention his and his family’s business ties to the Chinese state.

The chairman of Mr. Gal-Or’s video company, YChina, is his father, Amir, an investor whose fund is backed by the government-run China Development Bank , according to the fund’s website.

YChina has had two state-owned news outlets as clients, according to the website of Innonation , a company founded by Amir Gal-Or. Innonation manages shared-office spaces and hosts YChina’s office in Beijing.

In emails with The New York Times, Raz Gal-Or said that YChina had no “business contracts” with state news agencies and that Innonation’s website was “inaccurate.” He said no official entities paid or guided him in Xinjiang.

He said his Xinjiang video series was about “people’s lives, well-beings and dreams.”

“Those who perceive it as political I am sure have their own agenda,” he added.

‘Doing a Job’

Other creators acknowledge that they have accepted financial support from state entities, though they say this does not make them mouthpieces for Beijing.

Kirk Apesland, a Canadian living in China, calls his channel Gweilo 60. (“Gweilo” is Cantonese slang for foreigner.) He rejects news of repression in Xinjiang and cites his own happy experiences to contest the idea that China’s people are oppressed.

“China’s locking up people in re-education camps. They’re trying to educate these people so that they have jobs and skills and stuff into the future. It’s a big difference from Guantanamo Bay, where you get locked up.”

Accusing CHINA of Genocide, Forced Labor and Sterilization Gweilo 60

After The Times contacted Mr. Apesland, he posted a video titled “New York Times vs Gweilo 60.” In it, he acknowledges that he accepts free hotels and payment from city and provincial authorities. He compares it to being a pitchman for local tourism.

“Are there fees for what I do? Of course,” he says. “I’m doing a job. I’m putting the videos out to hundreds of thousands of people.”

Lee Barrett makes a similar acknowledgment in one of his videos . “They pay for travel, they pay for accommodation, they pay for food,” he says. “However, they don’t tell us what we have to say by any means.”

Oli Barrett did not respond to a request for comment.

According to a document featured in a new report by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, China’s internet regulator paid about $30,000 to a media company as part of a campaign called “A Date With China,” which used “foreign internet celebrities” to promote the government’s success in alleviating poverty.

The research institute, which is called ASPI and is funded by the Australian and American governments and companies including military contractors, has published several reports on China’s coercive policies in Xinjiang.

When the YouTubers travel on the state dime, official organizers shape what they see and do. Not long ago, Lee Barrett, an influencer named Matt Galat and two creators from Mexico held a livestreamed discussion about a trip they took to Xi’an with the state broadcaster China Radio International.

The organizers asked Mr. Galat to deliver a speech praising a place he had yet to see, he said during the discussion. He refused.

During another part of the trip, Mr. Galat was frustrated that a visit to a sacred mountain was cut from the schedule.

“They had to fit in more propaganda visits,” he said.

–They had to fit in more propaganda visits. –They didn’t say that, did they, but that’s what happened.

The JaYoe Nation

Mr. Galat later removed the stream of the discussion from his channel. He declined to say why.

How to Win Likes and Influence People

It is unclear how much income the creators may be generating from this work. But apart from money, Chinese government entities have also provided something that can be just as valuable for a social media personality: digital traffic.

YouTube uses advertising revenue to pay influencers based on how many people are watching. Those eyeballs can also help influencers land sponsorship deals with big brands, as several of the pro-China YouTubers have done.

Mr. Gal-Or posted his video about Xinjiang’s cotton farms on YouTube on April 8, shortly after Nike, H&M and other brands came under fire in China for expressing concern about reports of forced labor.

What I saw in Xinjiang working as a Cotton Farmer

8 months ago

Within days, his video was reposted with Italian subtitles by the Facebook page of China’s embassy in Italy, which has nearly 180,000 followers.

In the weeks that followed, the video, along with other clips of Mr. Gal-Or in Xinjiang, were shared on Facebook and Twitter by at least 35 accounts run by Chinese embassies and official news outlets, according to data collected by ASPI and verified by the Times. In total, the accounts have roughly 400 million followers.

Ĉina Radio Internacia April 10

Israela blogisto Raz Galor lastatempe vizitis gubernio Shaya, regiono Aksu, Xinjiang kaj persone spertis maŝinan kultivadon de loka kotono. Li diris, ke post tiu ĉi vizito, li profunde sentis belecon de la regiono, solidarecon de ĉiuj etnoj, feliĉon de la popolo kaj progreson de la ekonomio.

Çin Büyükelçiliği Ankara/Chinese Embassy in Turkey April 9

Pamuk yetiştiriciliğini deneyimlemek için Xinjiang’a giden bir yabancı: Yabancı medya gerçek #Xinjiang’ı görmek istemiyor. Xinjiang’da pamuk ekimi cep telefonu aracılığıyla gerçekleştirilebilir.

Ambassade de Chine en France April 9

Quand un étranger apprend la culture du coton au Xinjiang

Ambassade de Chine au Sénégal @ChineAmbassade · Apr 30 L'avril, c'est la bonne saison pour l'ensemencement du coton. En #Chine, un jeune garçon britannique a filmé son expérience en tant que paysan de coton au #Xinjiang. Découvrons avec lui la scène vivante de récolte de #cotton du Xinjiang.

China Embassy in Malaysia April 14

What’s the daily live of the local people in Xinjiang? Let’s follow youtuber Ychina to visit #Aksu Prefecture in #Xinjiang and check out the stories of the locals. Enjoy the video.

Ambassade de Chine en France @AmbassadeChine · Apr 9 RT @Yo_fr1: @hari_yass @AmbassadeChine

中華人民共和国駐日本国大使館 @ChnEmbassy_jp · Apr 9 新疆での綿花収穫作業に密着しよう。地元の綿花農家によると、収穫時一日の報酬は150元から200元で、自動走行できる大型農機の運用で、作業が以前よりだいぶ楽になった。What I saw in Xinjiang working as a Cotton Farmer

中国驻斯洛伐克使馆 Čínske veľvyslanectvo na Slovensku June 22

Curious about Xinjiang cotton farmers' working condition and salary? Let's pay a visit to them with a foreign vlogger. #ChinaStory #Xinjiang

Chinese Embassy in Prague （Velvyslanectví Čínské lidové republiky） April 15

Raz vyzpovídal deset náhodně vybraných obyvatel Sin-ťiangu a získal tak jedinečnou možnost nahlédnout do každodenního života místních obyvatel.

Embajada China en CR April 14

QUÉ OPINAN LOS EXTRANJEROS SOBRE CHINA | Ep6 Raz Galor: ¡Mire lo que he visto trabajando como un agricultor de algodón en Xinjiang! (Vlog completo) Basado en su propia experiencia en Xinjiang, el bloguero Raz Galor comentó que estaba muy impresionado por la tecnología avanzada de la industria del algodón de Xinjiang y señaló que el pueblo local disfruta de un salario alto, nada que ver con las infundadas acusasiones de "trabajo forzoso". ¡Vean el vídeo y la verdad en el siguiente enlace y no se olviden de suscribirse a su canal en Youtube!

CRI German April 17

Der israelische Video-Influencer Raz Galor interviewte drei verschiedene Familien in Xinjiang. Sie haben ihre eigenen Lebensweisen und erzählen die Änderungen in #Xinjiang aus ihren Erfahrungen. (via bilibili)

中国驻斯洛伐克使馆 Čínske veľvyslanectvo na Slovensku @ChinaEmbSVK · Jun 22 RT @XichengBeijing: 歪果仁研究协会 Ychina

Ambasciata della Repubblica Popolare Cinese in Italia April 9

NOTIZIE DELL' ULTIM'ORA! Abbiamo scoperto che il lavoro forzato nei campi di cotone nello Xinjiang esiste davvero! I contadini stanno costringendo i trattori e i droni a lavorare da soli！ Non perdere il video di Ychina!

Chinese Embassy in Kenya @ChineseEmbKenya · Apr 13 Raz Galor from Israel visited Xinjiang days ago. Let’s check his Vlog to see what he found in Xinjiang. Episode I : What I saw in Xinjiang working as a Cotton Farmer

Romanian Service, China Radio International April 19

Xinjiang: Experiența unui străin de a planta bumbac cu uigurii În videoclipul realizat de YChina și vloggerul israelian, Raza Galor se arată experiența unui străin de 28 de ani, absolvent al Universității Peking, care a plantat bumbac împreună uigurii din prefectura Aksu din Xinjiang. Din ianuarie 2017, YChina a început să publice vloguri și documentare despre China pe diferite aplicații video, câștigând sprijinul urmăritorilor chinezi.

CRI HAUSA April 9

Kwanan nan ne na kalli wani shirin bidiyo da wani dan kasar Isra’ila mai suna Raz Galor, ko kuma Gao Yousi a yaren Sin ya dauka, game da ziyarar gani da ido da ya yi a birnin Aksu na jihar Xinjiang. Dalilin zuwansa Xinjiang shi ne, amsa tambayar da abokanansa dake kasashen waje suka yi masa, dangane da ainihin halin da ake ciki a Xinjiang. Kamar shin da gaske ne ana tilastawa ‘yan kwadago su yi aikin noman auduga a wajen? Shin da gaske ne ana muzgunawa ma’aikata ‘yan kananan kabilun wajen? Ga sharhin da Murtala Zhang ya rubuta

Chinese Embassy in Ireland @ChinaEmbIreland · Apr 14 Israeli blogger Raz Galor working as a cotton farmer in Xinjiang.

YouTube’s and Google’s algorithms favor videos that are shared widely on social media.

“Dictatorial countries can centralize their understanding of the algorithm and use it to boost all their channels,” said Guillaume Chaslot, a former Google engineer who helped develop YouTube’s recommendation engine.

On Twitter, Mr. Gal-Or’s video was shared by many accounts with suspiciously bare digital personas, according to Darren Linvill, who studies social media disinformation at Clemson University. This, he said, is a characteristic sign of a coordinated operation.

Of the 534 accounts that tweeted the video from April through the end of June, two-fifths had 10 or fewer followers, Professor Linvill found. One in nine had zero followers. For nine accounts, Mr. Gal-Or’s video was their first tweet.

Such activity has added to Mr. Gal-Or’s and other creators’ digital footprints.

Joshua Lam and Libby Lange, graduate student researchers at Yale University, analyzed a sample of nearly 290,000 tweets that mentioned Xinjiang in the first half of 2021. They found that six of the 10 most commonly shared YouTube videos in the tweets were from the pro-China influencers.

Transparency for Influencers

YouTube told The Times that it hadn’t found evidence that these creators were “linked to coordinated influence operations.” The site, which is part of Google, regularly takes down channels that it finds to be promoting messages in a repetitive or coordinated way.

But YouTube also requires channels to disclose sponsorships or other commercial relationships so viewers can be made aware. After The Times asked about the payments and free travel from Chinese state media, YouTube said it would remind the creators of their obligations.

YouTube also tries to promote transparency by labeling channels run by government-funded news organizations. But the platform does not label the personal channels of their employees, it said.

This allows some YouTubers to obscure the fact that they work for Chinese state media.

Li Jingjing takes her subscribers into the coral reefs of the South China Sea and discusses the West’s efforts to contain China. Her channel does not mention that she works for China Global Television Network .

Stuart Wiggin’s channel, The China Traveler , does not indicate that he works for People’s Daily. Yet that was how Mr. Wiggin, who is British, was identified by another state newspaper, China Daily, in its coverage of the “Date With China” campaign.

In his videos from Xinjiang, Mr. Wiggin raves about the cuisine and interviews locals about how their lives have improved. Topics like re-education camps do not come up.

Ms. Li and Mr. Wiggin did not respond to requests for comment.

Mr. Galat was among the most popular pro-Beijing YouTubers by the time he left China this year to bring his channel to new places. He is now documenting his travels across the United States.

In an interview, Mr. Galat said he had no regrets about his videos from China.

Before the pandemic, Mr. Galat, a Detroit native living in Ningbo, had built a YouTube following with his happy-go-lucky travel videos.

Nobody asked these people to dance.

They just enjoy dancing and their parents are proud of them, that they’re carrying on this cultural idea of them dancing.

As China emerged from the worst of the outbreak, he began receiving travel invitations from local governments and state news outlets.

At the time, China was trying to deflect Western criticism of its pandemic response. Mr. Galat said he was bothered by those criticisms, too.

His YouTube videos started getting political. He mused about whether the virus might have come from the United States. He hosted a discussion about the Western campaign against Huawei, the Chinese tech giant.

“People like to have dramatic and aggressive feelings toward things, and a lot of that content was more popular than, say, my normal travel videos,” he said.

By this year, Mr. Galat’s channel had more than 100,000 subscribers. He acknowledged that the Chinese state media’s support helped his channel grow. As his trips with state media grew longer, the outlets paid him for his time, he said. He declined to say how much.

This summer, he went to Xinjiang on a trip planned by CGTN, the state broadcaster.

“Just a thought for those that want to compare China to Nazi Germany,” he says in one video at a museum on the culture of the Uyghurs, one of Xinjiang’s minority groups. “Do you think that there was maybe museums in Germany before the war that were embracing Jewish culture?”

The views on Mr. Galat’s YouTube videos have fallen since he left China. That doesn’t bother him, he said. In the future, his channel probably won’t be so political.

“I am not completely comfortable,” he said, “being a political talking post for big issues.”

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Travel China Cheaper

Travel China the smart way! Expert tips and travel advice for China tourists and expats.

PLANNING A TRIP TO CHINA? Start Here

How to Watch YouTube in China 2024 (even though it’s blocked)

February 17, 2024 By Josh Summers

YouTube is blocked in China – that’s been the reality for more than a decade. Whether you just want to stream your favorite YouTube videos or you need to upload videos while you’re in China, your biggest challenge is internet censorship. Thankfully, there are ways around this censorship and we’re going to cover a couple of those options here.

Recommended Resource – NordVPN

If you’re looking for the fastest, easiest way to bypass internet censorship to view YouTube in China, look no further than NordVPN. Get connected in less than 5 minutes at lightning-fast speeds.

When it comes to being censored within China, YouTube is in good company. There are plenty of other apps and website such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and even WhatsApp in China that have been axed by the powers-that-be in Beijing.

China has taken a particular dislike to anything having to do with Google.

YouTube (which is owned by Google) is just one of many Google-related services blocked in China . In China you can’t access the Google homepage, use Google Docs or check your Gmail.

Accessing YouTube in China is slightly different than most of these other websites for one reason: watching or uploading a video on YouTube takes a lot of bandwidth and high internet speeds.

In this guide, we’re going to answer the following questions:

• Is YouTube Blocked in China?
• How to Watch YouTube in China?
• How to Upload YouTube Videos in China?
• Tips for Watching YouTube in China

Use the navigation links above to jump to the answer to your specific question or continue scrolling to read more.

Note : This article contains affiliate links, which means that at no extra cost to you, I will be compensated if you use some of these services I recommend.

Is YouTube Blocked in China in 2024?

YouTube is blocked in China and has been blocked since March 24, 2009. At the time, China did not officially acknowledge that they had blocked this Google service, but it was abundantly clear that the company was not welcome in the country.

It took another year (June 2010) before Google made a formal exit from China because all of its services had been censored.

If you were to type in “YouTube.com” into your internet browser while in China, your computer would spend about 30 seconds trying to make a connection and then serve you with the following message:

This site can’t be reached.

Now, 14+ years after YouTube in China was first censored, there’s no reason to believe that it will ever be unblocked.

How to Watch YouTube in China (tutorial)

Time needed:  10 minutes

Because YouTube is blocked in China, you’re going to need to rely on a technology known as a virtual private network (“VPN” for short) to help you bypass censorship. Below I’ll show you step-by-step how to connect to a VPN to watch YouTube in China.

Don’t worry: you won’t get in trouble for using a VPN in China and as you saw above, it’s incredibly easy to set up.

Again, I’ve already covered a number of recommended VPNs for China , but for the purpose of watching YouTube in China, I have used and recommend:

• NordVPN : Historically the most reliable VPN for China (I’ve used it for over 7 years now). It’s a premium app but is reasonably priced.
• Surfshark : Although considerably younger than ExpressVPN, I’ve had great success using YouTube in China while on Surfshark. They offer a great value for the service.

You’ll want to make sure that you download the apps on your devices before you enter China. It’s terribly hard to do so once you’ve already landed here!

Can I Use SmartDNS to Stream YouTube?

I’ve have some people ask me if using something like SmartDNS will allow them access YouTube in China.

Sadly, it won’t.

SmartDNS works for geo-restricted content such as Netflix, Pandora or even to watch Hulu in China . It spoofs your location in order to bypass restrictions on the provider end (because of licensing agreements).

However, since YouTube is actively blocked in China, SmartDNS won’t help. You’ll have to use a VPN.

How to Upload Videos to YouTube in China

For a while, I used to upload incredible travel videos to YouTube on my FarWestChina YouTube Travel Channel (check it out…they’re awesome videos!).

At times, the uploading has been really,  really slow. As in, I had to leave the computer overnight to upload.

Other times, uploading has taken only a few minutes.

VPNs naturally slow down your internet connection. Since you have to use a VPN or proxy to access YouTube in China, it’s not surprising that it takes so long to upload here.

Here are a few tips that I’ve learned as I’ve uploaded videos to YouTube:

• It’s best to upload at off-peak times . In other words, avoid late afternoon and evening when everybody is getting on the internet after work.
• Try different networks/servers. Sometimes you’ll get a faster upload on your home network, sometimes you can get blazing speeds at your local coffee shop. You can also connect to different servers and protocols with your VPN to increase speeds.
• Be patient. It can be frustrating…I know. As long as you know what you’re getting into and you’re patient, you’ll be fine.

But don’t worry – you  can upload videos to YouTube in China!

Tips for Streaming Video in China

Your primary concern when wanting to stream video from services like YouTube or even Netflix in China is internet speed.

Regardless of what method you eventually use to circumvent the blocking of YouTube, your number one priority is speed.

There are a couple of things you can do to make sure that you’re accessing the internet in China at the highest possible speed. This includes:

• Check Your Current Speed : Visit a website like SpeedTest.net to determine your internet speed. According to Google’s YouTube support page , you will need at least 1+ Mbps (Megabits per second) in download speeds, although you’ll want more like 3-5 Mbps if you want high quality videos for YouTube in China. If you test your internet speed and it isn’t fast enough, you need to either find a different network or find a way to upgrade your network.
• Close Other Apps : Once you’ve determined that your internet is fast enough, you’ll probably want to close other browser tabs which might be silently using up your internet bandwidth in the background. Every little bit helps!
• Stay Updated : Make sure that your browser and operating system are as up-to-date as they can be. Each new update not only includes security patches, it’s also usually faster.

In the end, you need to make sure you set up a VPN that has both high enough speeds and can bypass the internet censorship in China. I usually recommend that people download and install two VPNs prior to arriving in China since they don’t always work the same in every city in China.

If you decide to get two, choose ones that offer a 30 day money back guarantee in case they don’t work as well as you had hoped in China.

Final Thoughts on Using YouTube in China

It’s quite possible to use YouTube in China – as well as the hundreds of other websites and apps that are blocked in China .

Make sure you’ve done your research and get setup with a VPN before   you travel to China. I recommend both NordVPN and Surfshark , although there are plenty of others that work as well.

It takes a little bit of creativity and a little bit of patience, but being able to share your videos on YouTube can be worth the effort.

Further Reading & Resources

Traveling or Moving to China Soon?

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About Josh Summers

Josh is the founder of TravelChinaCheaper.com who has been living in China with his family since 2006. Over that period of time he has traveled by plane, train, car, motorcycle and even camel to explore almost every corner of the country.

Reader Interactions

November 18, 2018 at 10:07 pm

Yes, you will. Skyroam will allow you to access Wifi via Chinese networks, so your access to the internet will be censored. Great question, though!

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Chinese Tourists Agency

How to Use Live Streaming in China to Attract Tourists to a Destination?

China has the world’s largest pool of tourists and in the past decade, Chinese tourism has seen outstanding growth . Now more than ever, Chinese people are traveling and spending more on travel and their destination, as they couldn’t do it for more than 3 years.

But since a few years ago, many things changed and the ways Chinese people look for information or find travel inspiration differ from before. Today, it’s important to adapt your marketing strategy to a new type of Chinese tourist and one of the good tools to do so is live streams.

In this blog post, we will tell you how the live-streaming industry works in China , what are the most popular live-streaming services and how to leverage live-streaming platforms in the tourism industry. Let’s delve in!

What’s Chinese Live-Streaming All About?

The live-streaming industry in China has seen meteoric growth in the last few years, becoming an influential pillar in the country’s digital landscape. As of the last count, China’s live-streaming audience surpassed the 660 million mark , with 53% year-on-year growth , with live-streaming e-commerce generating more than 4.9 trillion RMB ($720 billion) in 2023 .

This boom has significantly impacted various industries, with tourism being one of the most notable beneficiaries.

The industry has been growing at a staggering rate, with projections suggesting that by the end of 2023, over 60% of China’s internet users will be engaged in live-streaming activities.

When it comes to the impact on tourism, in 2021, it was reported that about 10% of the total live-streaming audience (around 56 million users) engaged primarily with travel and destination-related content.

Surveys indicate that nearly 45% of Chinese tourists consider live-streaming content as a significant influencer in their travel decisions . They rely on these streams for real-world insights into destinations, hotels, activities, and local culture. Many tourism boards, hotels, and tour operators have integrated direct booking features into their live streams. In 2020, direct sales and bookings from travel-related live streams accounted for an estimated RMB 5.8 billion (around 900 million USD).

The Shift Towards Authentic Travel Experiences

The rise of live-streaming in tourism can be attributed to the Chinese audience’s growing desire for genuine, unfiltered experiences. Unlike polished advertisements, live streams provide a raw, real-time glimpse into destinations , allowing potential tourists to feel, albeit virtually, the essence of a place.

This trend has particularly benefited lesser-known or off-the-beaten-path destinations, which can showcase their unique offerings to millions through influential streamers or their own broadcasts.

Key Benefits of Live Streaming for Tourism Promotion

Live streaming has become an indispensable tool in tourism marketing, and here’s why:

Real-Time Engagement

Live streaming offers an immediate connection between destinations and viewers . This direct interaction, through Q&As or polls, fosters a strong bond and provides instant insights into audience preferences and questions.

Authenticity and Trust-Building

Offering an unfiltered view, live streams present the genuine side of a destination . This raw and authentic portrayal resonates with viewers, building trust and showcasing the true essence of a location.

Showcasing Real-Life Experiences

More than just visuals, live streams convey the emotions and ambiance of a place . From tasting local food to participating in cultural activities, it provides a virtual taste of actual experiences, enticing viewers to consider the destination for their next trip.

Who Are The New Chinese Tourists?

After the COVID-19 pandemic, Chinese tourists have changed their travel habits. They now value health and safety more than ever , choosing places known for cleanliness and good health practices. Many are exploring closer to home , favoring local spots over crowded tourist areas.

Nature trips and relaxing breaks are becoming more popular, as people look for ways to de-stress and connect with nature. Plus, they’re using the internet more to plan trips, find information, and use digital services. For those in the travel business, it’s crucial to recognize these changes and adapt to meet the new needs of Chinese travelers.

The Key Platforms For Video and Live-Streaming

The outbreak of the coronavirus has pushed the tourism industry to pause, but live streaming has brought more possibilities for tourism businesses and platforms.

In 2012, Youku merged with Tudou to form the giant online video platform Youku Tudou. The platform is one that reported its user base at 500 million unique monthly visitors and successfully bid for ownership of streaming rights for the FIFA World Cup.

Three years before that, it was acquired for $4.8 billion USD by China’s most important and dominant tech and e-commerce company: Alibaba.

Youku Tudou is often referred to as the YouTube of China . One visit to its homepage and it is obvious why. But while YouTube is the mecca of user-generated content, Youku functions analogously closer to Hulu or Netflix. The phrase “ online video platform ” may be an appropriate catch-all term, but Youku is more precisely an internet television company. It pays for and produces content and earns money through a monthly subscription service.

Owned by Chinese tech giant Baidu, iQiyi is another important video platform that claims nearly half-a-billion users and over 5.5 billion hours of content streamed each month . Much like how JD and Alibaba compete at the top of China’s e-commerce landscape, iQiyi is in a battle against its top rival, Youku- on top of other popular services offered by Tencent and Sohu.

iQiyi makes its distinct mark in a few high-profile ways. First, it partnered with Netflix in 2016 to stream exclusive Netflix content in China (though that agreement has since expired). Second, it also acquired the popular South Korean show My Love From the Star. That show is such a hit that it has been streamed on iQiyi over 14.5 billion times since December 2013.

Taobao Live

Alibaba, like other major Chinese companies, understands the massive commercial and e-commerce opportunities associated with live-streaming and has made Taobao Live a focal point of its strategy for years.

As a result, the platform is Alibaba’s live-streaming arm that has not only helped with the rise of Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) and Key Opinion Consumers (KOCs) — many of whom earn millions of dollars by partnering with companies to highlight their products in videos— but it also expects the Taobao Live to generate over 500 billion sales transactions over the next three years.

Taobao Live is by far the most popular platform for live streaming: 79 percent of all e-commerce live-streaming transactions in China occurred on its platform.

Though paling in comparison to Taobao Live when it comes to e-commerce live-streaming transactions, Douyin is a platform that any business looking to make inroads in China must be cognizant of. The short-video streaming platform is China’s counterpart to TikTok , of which pop-culture-inclined Westerners are becoming steadily more aware.

While TikTok and Douyin are the same in some fundamental respects, the commercial facet of the latter app is much more developed.

Douyin daily users—numbering in hundreds of millions—can do much more than view short videos. Purchasing a featured product, booking a hotel, and becoming a KOL are all possible through Douyin’s platform. Though, as a percentage of overall e-commerce live-streaming transactions, Douyin is a distant second to Taobao Live, brands would be wise to take note, lest they miss out on perhaps the next biggest thing in Chinese e-commerce.

Kuaishou tends to target users from lower-tier cities and small towns . This should excite businesses looking to capitalize on this user base, given that lesser-known provinces like Shaanxi, Hubei, Fujian, and Yunnan saw 10 percent growth in consumer goods sales, as opposed to 7.9 percent in Shanghai and just 2.7 percent in Beijing.

Many Chinese e-commerce experts predict that it’s in these regions and cities where consumer growth will continue to be strong.

Strategies to Optimize Live Streaming for Tourist Attraction

Live streaming has become a game-changer for promoting tourist destinations. To ensure you capture the attention and interest of potential travelers, live-streaming hosts should consider these expanded strategies:

Dive Deep into Authentic Local Experiences

Engaging local guides who can narrate personal tales, share legends, and delve into history can make a big difference. It’s also beneficial to display the vitality of traditional events and local festivals , not forgetting the simple charm of everyday life. Featuring regional delicacies and hosting on-the-spot cooking sessions can further enrich the viewer’s experience.

Boost Interaction and Engagement

Boosting interaction is the key to keeping viewers engaged . Regular Q&A sessions where they can inquire about various aspects of the destination, from attractions to accommodations, can be invaluable.

Additionally, offering real-time recommendations and virtual gifts based on viewer feedback and preferences or even holding interactive polls and contests during the live stream can significantly enhance engagement levels.

Leverage Collaborations for Greater Reach

Collaborations also play a pivotal role in expanding your reach. Teaming up with travel bloggers, influencers, or local celebrities can amplify the broadcast’s visibility and lend a touch of credibility to the showcased attractions.

An innovative approach could involve dual streams , where two hosts from different backgrounds, perhaps a local expert and a popular travel influencer, combine their perspectives for a richer narrative.

Offer a Behind-the-Curtain View

Offering viewers a unique behind-the-curtain view can further pique their interest. Exclusive tours of places that are usually off-limits to the public, or showcasing the behind-the-scenes preparations of major events , can provide a fresh, intriguing perspective.

Stay Ahead with Advanced Features

Lastly, to stay ahead in the digital game, it’s crucial to integrate advanced tech features. Incorporating Augmented Reality can overlay fascinating facts onto real-world scenes, while Virtual Reality tours can offer a completely immersive experience. Additionally, providing 360-degree views ensures that viewers capture the full essence of a location, allowing them to virtually explore every nook and cranny.

Effective Promotion of Live Streams

Promoting live streams effectively demands a multi-faceted approach. Here’s a deeper dive into key strategies to ensure your live streams draw significant attention:

Pre-Streaming Hype

Building anticipation is pivotal for the success of any live stream. One effective way to stir up excitement is through the use of compelling teasers and trailers . These short videos can provide a glimpse into the content of the upcoming stream, making viewers eager for the full experience.

Alongside these visual appetizers, regular announcements play a crucial role . By continuously updating your audience about the date, time, and unique highlights of the forthcoming live stream, you keep the event top-of-mind and allow potential viewers to schedule their time accordingly. Pair these announcements with visually appealing graphics, countdowns, or even short interviews with hosts or special guests to further enhance the hype.

Platform Collaboration

Establishing a strong presence on the streaming platform itself is equally vital. A strategic partnership with the platform can lead to premium placements , ensuring your stream captures the attention of those browsing. Being featured on the platform’s homepage or within top-viewed sections can draw in a substantial number of new viewers.

Furthermore, some platforms extend special streaming capabilities to their partners . By tapping into these features, you can provide unique viewing experiences. For instance, integrating interactive elements like polls or Q&A sessions can make the stream more engaging and enhance viewer retention.

We are a Certified Douyin Partner, and can help you get those specific placements!

Social Media and Community Engagement

The vast expanse of social media platforms offers numerous avenues to amplify the reach of your live stream. Regular promotional posts across all your social channels, adorned with popular hashtags and captivating visuals , can capture widespread attention.

Engaging directly with online communities, especially those populated by travel enthusiasts, is another potent strategy. Sharing stream details, addressing queries, and even collaborating with community admins and other live streamers can significantly bolster your promotional efforts.

Furthermore, encouraging user-generated content can create a buzz among tens of thousands of viewers. By prompting followers to share their excitement or expectations and then reposting their content, you not only widen the promotional net but also foster a sense of community and loyalty among viewers.

Case Study: Moganshan District in Deqing County Promotion

To help accelerate the recovery of business and production following the COVID-19 epidemic, before the Labor Day holidays, the Moganshan district in Deqing County provided a series of special offers for family stays through the Livestream to attract tourists who were captured in seconds.

It was a successful attempt by Shen Chanying and his companions, who recently have done live streaming on Taobao Live, the Livestream unit of the Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba. Their efforts were to show the cozy family houses and local specialties in Moganshan, a city known for its mountain tourist site of the same name. They also expected to introduce Moganshan’s green and slow-paced lifestyle to urban people via live streaming.

The tourism industry, a pillar of Moganshan’s economic structure, has suffered hefty losses as a result of the outbreak, while local agricultural products, such as tea, aquatic products, and fruit, have been hard to sell.

Livestreaming has succeeded in boosting online sales, and also increase the influence of the town. Thanks to these efforts, Moganshan’s tourism industry is recovering steadily.

Choose Gentlemen Marketing Agency for Your Live Streaming Success

If there’s one thing we understand at Gentlemen Marketing Agency , it’s the ever-evolving landscape of Chinese digital marketing, especially in the realm of live streaming. With a vast majority of Chinese consumers tuning into live streams for information, entertainment, and purchase decisions, the medium has emerged as a critical channel for brands, especially in the tourism sector.

Why should you trust us with your live-streaming promotions?

• Expertise in the Chinese Market : Our in-depth understanding of Chinese consumer behavior ensures your live streams resonate with the intended audience. We know what the Chinese traveler is looking for and how to showcase it in real-time.
• Holistic Approach : We don’t just focus on the streaming itself. Our comprehensive promotional strategies include pre-streaming hype, platform collaborations, and effective social media engagement, ensuring your live events get the viewership they deserve.
• Cutting-edge Tools : We stay updated with the latest in technology, from AR to VR, ensuring your content is not just viewed but experienced.
• Network of Influencers : With connections to a broad network of influencers, bloggers, and local celebrities, we can enhance your reach and credibility manifold.
• End-to-End Support : From conceptualization to execution and post-stream analysis, our dedicated team offers support at every step. Our goal is to ensure that each live stream surpasses the last in terms of engagement and conversion.

Let Gentlemen Marketing Agency be your beacon in the bustling world of Chinese live streaming. With our expertise, resources, and dedication, we promise to transform your streams into powerful tools of engagement and conversion.

Reach out today and let’s set the digital stage for your destination’s success!

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US travel sector faces long wait for China tourism to hit 2019 highs

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Tourists are still not returning to China and that's not good for anybody

• International tourism to China is still well below pre-pandemic levels.
• Flights from the US are expensive and hard to find.
• Tourism is one of several economic woes in China that could spill over into the global economy.

Economists have been predicting for years that China would surpass the US as the top global economic superpower , but the country has hit some recent bumps in the road, putting that ascension into doubt. Some of China's problems include:

Chinese stocks have fallen this year and investors are pulling billions out .

The yuan has plunged 5% this year over economic concerns.

China is now in a deflationary cycle.

Youth unemployment has reached a record high of over 20% .

China's real-estate market is in shambles .

Things are so bad that some market experts are predicting the Chinese economy is heading toward a financial crash .

Now add another problem — China's tourism industry is struggling to recover from the pandemic.

Several factors have played a role in the shortage of international tourists, including challenges associated with using cash or credit cards in China and the detainment of foreigners in perceived retaliation against rival countries. However, for Americans, one of the biggest deterrents is that flights are expensive and hard to find.

There are currently just 18 round-trip flights a week between the US and China, with the two countries recently agreeing to increase that to 24 in October . While that's double the number from earlier this year, Time reports that there were 340 weekly flights between the countries before the pandemic.

On top of that, The Wall Street Journal reported that round-trip, economy-class tickets to China were going for about $4,500 this summer. Prices are up in part because US airlines stopped using Russian airspace following the invasion of Ukraine, which has increased flight times, and longer flights require more fuel.

The Wall Street Journal reported that just 52,000 people visited China from other countries with the help of a travel agency in the first quarter of this year. That was down from 3.7 million in the same period in 2019. WSJ spoke with one US agency that used to send as many as 1,500 tourists a year to China but has not had a single request since the start of the pandemic.

The China Tourism Association noted in May that "the number of visitors from Europe, America, Japan and Korea are all dropping, substantially," The Japan Times reported .

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This is in sharp contrast to travel to Europe, where the volume of foreign visitors is already back to 80% of its pre-pandemic levels .

Another factor playing a role in the lack of tourism could be fear. Not only are tensions high between the US and China, but the US government has warned Americans about the risk of traveling to there. In June, the US State Department wrote: "Reconsider travel to Mainland China due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including in relation to exit bans, and the risk of wrongful detentions."

In 2021, CNN spoke with more than a dozen academics, NGO workers, and media professionals who traveled to China regularly before the pandemic. They said they were no longer willing to go, citing personal safety and the detainment of several foreign nationals.

The local boost in tourism will likely end

Earlier this year, the lack of foreign tourists was being offset by an increase in domestic tourism. Chinese travelers opted to stay closer to home, with Fan Lei, the chief financial officer of Tongcheng Travel, telling the South China Morning Post that people in China were buying fewer big-ticket items like real estate and cars and instead were spending more on experiences.

That was also the case in the US this past summer, where people spent more money on things like concerts and movies .

But China's situation could take a turn for worse soon and some fear the country's economy is heading for a "hard landing," with a substantial downturn following strong growth. This will likely lead to people in China tightening their grip on the money they do have and spending less.

China's problems could spill over into the global economy

Trouble for China's economy could mean more bad news for the rest of the world. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and President Joe Biden have warned of spillover risks for the global economy , with the latter calling it a "ticking time bomb."

Several experts previously told Insider that a downturn in China's economy could cause international trade to collapse, leading to too much inventory for companies, dwindling profits, and job losses for businesses in the US and other markets. They also noted there's a risk of China exporting deflation, which could hurt corporate profits in the US.

Before the pandemic, 10.4% of global GDP — about $10 trillion — was tied to travel and tourism, and international visitors spent $1.9 trillion in 2019. Tourism hasn't returned to those levels, but they're on the rise, with travel-related GDP jumping 22% in 2022 to 7.6% and international spending up 81.9% in 2022.

People are visiting other countries again and spending money. They're just not going to China — in the end, that could hurt us all.

Watch: An investment chief at HSBC sees huge trading opportunities outside the US

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9 Popular Video Platforms in China | Chinese Version Of Youtube

Nowadays some Chinese video websites are not only trying to become the YouTube alternative but also trying to become the Netflix alternative in China, so you can see some websites are doing very complicated content businesses.

Related Topic:   How to watch YouTube in China?

However, there are some video websites developed by Chinese companies which are kind of looked like, or once trying to become, the Chinese version of YouTube and some of them play a crucial role, greatly affecting the daily lives of many Chinese.

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2. Bilibili

4. 56 video, 6. tencent video, 7. sohu video, 9. baidu video, faq: about the chinese version of youtube.

I think YouKu once was the closest one to becoming the Chinese version of YouTube. From its name, we can tell that YouKu was initially targeting to become a video platform like YouTube and I have to admit that YOUKU once was so close to it.

However, as more and more big companies started to get involved in the video platform market, the dominant status of YOUKU was greatly challenged, from the top one to nowadays around the third to fourth position.

Still, YouKu is one of the most powerful video platforms in China. Their video content is solid and rich. If this is your first time visiting China and having trouble accessing YouTube, you should take a look at the YouKu which can give you a basic picture of what types of content are Chinese favorites, gaining more insight into the daily life of modern Chinese.

YouKu provides some quality original entertainment shows, the most popular ones like “Street Dance of China”, and “Dunk of China”. Also, possessing numerous copyrights of film and TV series is another strength of YOUKU, you can watch almost all kinds of domestic TV shows, series, and movies on YOUKU.

Just like YouTube, YOUKU values and encourages users to create more and more personal channels and produce creative video content, so you also can find various interesting Chinese-style entertainment content, which could remind you a bit shadow of YouTube.  

Nowadays, Bilibili is certainly the Chinese version of Youtube in my opinion. This is a video website that is truly impressing me, not only because the user engagement is super well, but also because there are ZERO ads during the video watching, there are literally ZERO ads. Even on YouTube, you sometimes have to suffer some tedious ads for a few seconds, but in Bilibili, you don’t.

In my opinion, the main reason that Bilibili can be so successful is that Bilibili always sticks with its own style. Part of the reason that the “Second Dimension” culture is so hot in China is because of the content production from Bilibili.

Every day numerous Chinese younger generations are consistently creating various anime-culture-related content which is the main area in which Bilibili got involved from the very beginning. After years of development, Bilibili has truly built up a tide bond with its users and made a quality reputation in the industry, making lots of users with different preferences and hobbies more willing to come to this platform.

Bilibili nowadays has become one of the most diversified video platforms in China, attracting numerous young people to spend tons of time on it, including generation Z in China.

(If you want to know about Generation Z in China, feel free to check my article:  https://letschinese.com/chinese-generation-z/  )

Still, anime-related contents are the main strength of Bilibili. If you’re looking for anime videos in China, you definitely should go visit Bilibili because you can find almost every mainstream anime contents from all over the world.

Except for the YouKu, TuDou was another promising website that could become the Chinese version of Youtube.

Ten years ago, three main platforms are fighting for the champion of the Chinese video market, which includes YOUKU, 56, and TUDOU. I remember that almost all video content were offered by those three platforms at the time and TUDOU, in my opinion, was once the No.1, being listed on NASDAQ in 2011 and valuing more than 8 hundred million dollars.

However, as its competitor, YouKu, became stronger and stronger, Tudou chose to not face the competition but seek for cooperation. In 2013, TUDOU and YOUKU officially announced the enterprise merger, naming YouTudou video company. The two video platforms were still operated independently, but the power of YOUKU kept spreading to TUDOU and eventually destroyed it.

In 2017, TuDou was officially transformed into a short video platform, which means you can’t find creative and helpful solid content but some tedious lame entertainment short videos. If you visit TuDou nowadays, you still can find some interesting videos, but the quality is extremely affected.

My very memorable video website and I can surely tell you that it did have the potential to become the Chinese version of Youtube. Under the furious competition between YOUKU and TUDOU, 56 were always keeping low and playing their role in the industry.

56 Video platform, at the time, was using the theme color of YouTube, which reminded a lot of YouTube, and people loved to upload videos to 56 Video platform because of its friendly user experience, creating their own channels. When I was a high school student, I fell in love with street dance and I could find tons of excellent street dance videos on 56, which was so benefiting me.

What is funny is that 56 Video didn’t well manage its rich video contents at the time, which is gradually causing lots of negative content appearances. Until one day, the MIIT (Ministry of Industry and Information Technology) asked them to immediately rectify and started serious punishments, causing 56 to lose most users and greatly affecting the reputation of 56 Video.

Nowadays, People seldom talk about 56 Video platforms. There are no many things to watch but some video contents are highly duplicated, lacking creative and original content.

In my opinion, AcFun is supposed to be another, except for Bilibili, a Chinese video website that can be called the Chinese version of YouTube nowadays. However, things are greatly different.

Likewise, AcFun is not putting any advertisements in their video content, which is also the main reason that AcFun once was so popular in China. Just like the story between YouKu and TuDou, AcFun is defeated by its main powerful opponent, Bilibili.

The strategy that AcFun was using for the website development was quite similar to the Bilibili one, focusing on providing an excellent user experience and choosing anime-related content as its main area.

However, one of the biggest mistakes that AcFun was committed to be that it’s too focusing on pushing users to create content and ignoring the importance of copyright fighting for various TV series, anime series, and cinematic resources from third-party companies.

Later on, users soon figured out that there were fewer and less popular series and show in AcFun so they transferred to another platform called Bilibili, which possesses more copyrights and more resources. AcFun is no longer a powerful opponent to Bilibili. Once I’ve heard AcFun was struggling with its serious financial issue but luckily it survives now.

Last month (August 2019), AcFun just announce a 5 hundred million RMB investment in the original content production, encouraging people to work with the AcFun platform and hoping can regain some of the markets in China.

I know when talking about Tencent Video, it will remind you of Netflix, not Youtube. But you know what, Tencent Video has also been putting lots of resources on developing and looking for talented content creators. Except for those contents generated and brought by Tencent, there are also many different personal channels you can follow.

We all know Tencent is big in China. Many years ago, Tencent didn’t invest a lot in the video platform business, but as the mobile devices and the mobile network became more and more mature, Tencent realized the opportunity and started to get involved in the video platform building.

With crazy investment and its powerful social network platforms like WeChat and QQ, Tencent video soon grew to be one of the most popular video platforms. Nowadays, Tencent video is the top 3 video platform in China.

You can find many quality TV shows produced by TENCENT and imported from overseas and creative user-generated content. Although its user experience level is still far away from YouTube, I’m sure you will find things that make you feel worthy to visit. 

Just like Tencent Video, SoHu Video also will make people think it’s not the Chinese version of Youtube but the Chinese version of Netflix. However, what you might not know is that SoHu Video actually is possessing many different personal channels and has been consistently encouraging people to become content creators, which is pretty similar to Tencent Video.

SoHu once mainly focused on providing various US TV shows and series, attracting many young Chinese users who are big fans of “Big Bang Theory”, “House of Cards”, “Breaking Bad”, and so on. The road to success seemed very clear to SoHu video at the time until China decided to limit content from overseas and help develop the domestic film & TV industry.

SoHu was hit so hard and immediately changed to invest in more original content creators, trying to stop the losing market share. I can’t say that the above accidence is the cause for SoHu never re-gaining its prime ever again, but it’s definitely one of the main reasons.

Although nowadays we can watch US TV shows in SoHu again, the experience is never the same regarding the quantity and quality. Other platforms like iQiYi and Tencent Video are offering a lot more versatile content as well.

Once targeting to replace YouKu by mainly producing entertainment content, KU6 did make a buzz in the market. I remember there were lots of unique resources that only could be found in KU6.

Established in 2006, KU6 video platform, just like other ones, was targeting to become the Chinese version of YouTube, offering Chinese users a broad range of contents including news, entertainment sports, user-generated content, and so on.

In 2007, KU6 reached a business cooperation deal with Baidu and receiving 10 million US dollars from Draper Fisher Jurvetson and DT Capital Partners. At the time, most of the videos posted on the KU6 are short-form videos submitted via users and were doing very well.

However, as KU6 was received the license issued by SARFT and then founded the “KU6 Media Theater” in 2010, KU6’s YouTube dream was gradually distracting, becoming a Netflix and Hulu-liked the website.

I’m not sure this transformation is a successful one. At least today, I don’t see KU6 have any competitiveness in the market. If you go visit the KU6 website now, you will just see another short video platform, nothing impressive.

Possessing the most powerful search engine in China, Baidu always wants to have a website like Youtube, just like Google. Unfortunately, Baidu never gets even close to having one.

Baidu has been invested a lot in content generation whether it is written content or video content, but it seems Baidu never got the talent, or luck, to be successful in the content business even though it’s possessing a powerful search engine.

For now, Baidu does have a video website called Baidu video, but it’s really an unpopular one. Its original purpose is to integrate all video content from different platforms, making Baidu video the ultimate video platform for Chinese users.

However, none of the video platforms is stupid enough to join this kind of agreement to help Baidu become “too big to fall”, which causes Baidu not only to have no way to access those quality original content but also haven’t generated a lot of contents from its own platform.

Regarding the user experience or content quality, Baidu has almost no threat to those successful ones like Bilibili, Youku, Tencent Video, etc.

It’s not illegal watching YouTube in China. It’s just because Youtube is blocked in China, you need to find a way to access YouTube. Using a VPN to unblock YouTube is certainly the best way and it’s legal in China.

TikTok is not available in China but users in China can download a twin app called Douyin, which has totally the same function and is also developed by Bytedancee.

According to the Netflix help center, Netflix is not available in China , Crimea, North Korea, Russia, and Syria. But Netflix is available for streaming in over 190 countries and its library of TV shows and movies varies based on the country and will change from time to time.

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