Destinations

Six places to start, and what each one is really like

We only write about places we operate in ourselves. Below is an honest read on how long each city deserves, what to prioritise, and which ones combine well in a single trip.

The Great Wall at Mutianyu winding over forested mountains

Beijing

Imperial palaces, hutong lanes and the Wall — China’s capital does not do small.

Explore Beijing

Xi’an

The ancient capital of thirteen dynasties, and the Terracotta Army on its doorstep.

Explore Xi’an

Shanghai

Art deco riverfront on one bank, 600-metre towers on the other.

Explore Shanghai

Karst peaks along the Li River near Guilin

Guilin & Yangshuo

Karst peaks, rice terraces and the Li River — China’s most photographed landscape.

Explore Guilin & Yangshuo

Zhangjiajie

The sandstone pillars that inspired Avatar, plus a glass bridge over a 300-metre gorge.

Explore Zhangjiajie

Chengdu

Giant pandas, Sichuan hotpot and a city that has perfected the art of doing less.

Explore Chengdu