Hangzhou: A Paradise on Earth, A Poetic Haven

Hangzhou, a city blessed by the gods, where mountains and waters intertwine, creating a landscape of poetic beauty. She resembles an ink-wash painting, elegant and fresh; she is like a Jiangnan melody, melodious and enchanting. Whether you’re strolling by the West Lake, marveling at the breathtaking scenery that is “charming in both light and heavy makeup,” or exploring the Lingyin Temple, listening to the ancient chants and bell tolls of a thousand-year-old monastery, Hangzhou will captivate you, leaving you reluctant to leave.


West Lake: The Pearl of Heaven on Earth

The West Lake is the soul of Hangzhou and one of China’s most iconic cultural landscapes. The Ten Scenes, such as “Spring Dawn on Su Causeway,” “Remnant Snow on Broken Bridge,” and “Leifeng Pagoda in the Sunset,” have been celebrated for centuries. Glide across the lake on a boat, with distant hills like ink paintings and nearby waters veiled in mist, as if you’ve stepped into a flowing landscape scroll. Wander along Su Causeway, where willow branches sway gently in the breeze, and feel the tender charm of Jiangnan’s water towns. As night falls, the lake dons a mysterious veil, with musical fountains dancing to melodies, blending modernity and tradition in perfect harmony.

Travel Tips for International Visitors:

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn (March-May, September-November) offer pleasant weather and the most beautiful scenery.
  • Transportation: Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) has numerous international flights, making it easily accessible. The city boasts a well-developed public transport system, including metro, buses, and taxis.
  • Accommodation Recommendations: The West Lake area is home to many luxury hotels and unique homestays, catering to various budgets and preferences.
  • Culinary Experiences: Hangzhou cuisine is known for its light and fresh flavors. Don’t miss local specialties like West Lake Vinegar Fish, Longjing Shrimp, and Dongpo Pork.

Lingyin Temple: The Zen of a Thousand-Year-Old Monastery

Lingyin Temple, one of China’s earliest Buddhist temples and the place where the legendary monk Ji Gong became a monk, is a sanctuary of tranquility. Towering ancient trees, thriving incense, and the lingering sounds of Buddhist chants bring a sense of peace. Step into the Great Hall, gaze upon the solemn Buddha statues, and immerse yourself in the profound depth of Buddhist culture. Behind the temple lies Feilai Peak, with its rugged rocks and vivid cliff carvings, whispering tales of history’s passage.

Travel Tips for International Visitors:

  • Ticket Information: The Lingyin Temple scenic area ticket costs 45 RMB, and the Feilai Peak scenic area ticket is also 45 RMB. A combined ticket is recommended.
  • Suggested Route: Visit Feilai Peak first, then enter Lingyin Temple to fully appreciate the depth of Buddhist culture.
  • 礼仪:保持寺庙内的安静并尊重佛教习俗。

Longjing Tea: Savoring the Fragrance of Jiangnan

Hangzhou is the birthplace of Longjing tea, with West Lake Longjing being the finest of its kind. A trip to Hangzhou wouldn’t be complete without a cup of this fragrant tea. Stroll through Longjing Village, where tea plantations blanket the hills in lush green, and the air is filled with the subtle aroma of tea. Visit a local tea farmer’s home, pick tea leaves, experience the art of tea roasting, and delve into the charm of traditional Chinese tea culture.

Travel Tips for International Visitors:

  • Experiential Activities: Many tea plantations offer tea-picking, roasting, and tasting experiences. Advance booking is recommended.
  • Purchasing Tea: Buy from reputable tea shops and be cautious of counterfeit products.
  • Tea Culture Experience: Hangzhou has numerous tea houses where you can experience traditional Chinese tea ceremonies.

Southern Song Imperial Street: A Journey Through Time

Southern Song Imperial Street, once the most bustling commercial street in Hangzhou’s history and the central axis of the Southern Song imperial city, retains its ancient charm. Cobblestone paths, carved wooden doors, and upturned eaves transport you back to the grandeur of the Southern Song capital. Wander along the street, savor Hangzhou’s local snacks, shop for exquisite handicrafts, and experience the unique blend of past and present.

Travel Tips for International Visitors:

  • Local Snacks: Try Hangzhou specialties like Dingsheng Cake, Scallion Pancakes, and Wushan Crispy Pastry.
  • Shopping Recommendations: The street is lined with shops selling silk, tea, and handicrafts, perfect for souvenirs.
  • Cultural Experiences: The street often hosts cultural events, offering a glimpse into Hangzhou’s folk traditions.

Hangzhou, a City You’ll Never Want to Leave

Hangzhou embodies the gentle charm of Jiangnan’s water towns and the vibrant energy of a modern metropolis. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of history or embracing the gifts of nature, Hangzhou will fulfill your every expectation. Come, let us explore Hangzhou together and experience the poetic haven of heaven on earth!

Additional Travel Tips for International Visitors:

  • Visa Information: Check China’s visa policies in advance and prepare the required documents.
  • Currency Exchange: The official currency is the Renminbi (RMB), which can be exchanged at airports, banks, and other locations.
  • Language: Mandarin is the official language, but some tourist spots offer English services.
  • Internet and Communication: Most airports and hotels in China provide Wi-Fi, and local SIM cards are available for purchase.

We hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Hangzhou!

Beijing: A Timeless Journey Through the Imperial City

Beijing, a city with three millennia of history, is a shining gem of Chinese civilization and a vibrant metropolis of modern China. Here, the ancient and the modern intertwine, tradition and innovation collide, offering you a timeless journey through the imperial city.

Stroll Through History, Feel the Imperial Majesty

  • The Forbidden City: Step into the world’s largest palace complex and experience the grandeur and opulence of the Ming and Qing emperors. The golden-roofed palaces and intricately crafted artifacts seem to whisper tales of a glorious past. Wander through the Hall of Supreme Harmony, imagining the grand coronation ceremonies, and linger in the Imperial Garden, savoring the elegance of royal landscaping.
  • The Temple of Heaven: Wander through this imperial altar where ancient emperors prayed for good harvests. The grandeur of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests and the ingenious design of the Circular Mound Altar showcase the brilliance of ancient Chinese architecture. Stand at the center of the altar, gaze at the sky, and feel a connection to the heavens.
  • The Great Wall: Ascend one of the “Seven Wonders of the World” and marvel at the resilience and ingenuity of the Chinese people. The imposing Badaling section and the rugged Mutianyu section each carry the weight of history in every stone. Stand atop the wall, gaze at the rolling mountains, and embrace the spirit of “He who has not climbed the Great Wall is not a true hero.”

Savor Beijing’s Culture, Experience Local Life

  • Hutong Tour: Meander through the labyrinth of hutongs and soak in the authentic atmosphere of old Beijing. The quaint courtyards and unique shops offer a genuine taste of Beijing’s culture. Cycle through the narrow alleys, enjoying the leisurely pace of life, or step into a siheyuan (courtyard home) to chat with locals and hear their stories.
  • Peking Opera: Witness the grandeur of China’s “national treasure” and immerse yourself in the charm of traditional Chinese art. The elaborate costumes, vivid makeup, and melodic tunes will transport you into the heart of Chinese culture. Visit the Mei Lanfang Grand Theatre to enjoy a captivating performance and experience the allure of this ancient art form.
  • Culinary Delights: Indulge in Beijing’s iconic dishes like Peking duck, zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste), and douzhi (fermented mung bean juice). From imperial feasts to street snacks, every bite tells a story of Beijing’s rich culinary heritage. Savor the crispy skin and tender meat of Peking duck at Quanjude, or try the traditional breakfast of douzhi and jiaoquan at Huguo Temple Snacks.

Embrace Modernity, Discover Urban Charm

  • The Bird’s Nest and Water Cube: Visit the iconic landmarks of the 2008 Beijing Olympics and marvel at the creativity of modern architecture. Stand before the Bird’s Nest to feel its grandeur, or step into the Water Cube to experience its dreamlike ambiance.
  • Sanlitun and 798 Art District: Dive into Beijing’s trendy side and explore its contemporary art scene. Experience the vibrant nightlife at Sanlitun’s bar street, or wander through the 798 Art District to admire cutting-edge artworks and feel inspired.
  • National Centre for the Performing Arts: Enjoy a world-class performance and immerse yourself in the arts. Attend an opera, ballet, or concert at this architectural masterpiece, and let the magic of the stage captivate you.

Travel Tips:

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather for sightseeing.
  • Transportation: Beijing boasts an efficient public transport system, including subways, buses, and taxis, making it easy to get around.
  • Language: Mandarin is the official language, but English is spoken at major tourist sites and by some service staff.
  • Visa: Check China’s visa policies in advance and complete the necessary procedures.

Beijing welcomes you with open arms!

Discover Lijiang: A Millennia-Old Symphony of Culture and Nature

Nestled in the mountains of southwestern China, Lijiang is a city where time seems to stand still. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a place where nature and culture intertwine, offering a unique experience for history buffs, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike.

1. Wandering the Ancient Town: Tracing the Pulse of History

Lijiang Old Town (Dayan) is a living museum of Naxi culture. With over 800 years of history, every cobblestone and wooden house whispers tales of the past.

  • Cultural Courtyards: Explore over 30 cultural courtyards, such as the Fang Guoyu Former Residence and Hengyu Folk Museum, where you can try writing Dongba script or listen to ancient Naxi music.
  • Three-Eyed Wells: These ingeniously designed wells, used for drinking, washing vegetables, and laundry, reflect the Naxi philosophy of harmony with nature.

2. Natural Wonders: Odes to Snow Mountains and Lakes

Lijiang’s beauty extends far beyond its ancient town.

  • Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: The sacred mountain of the Naxi people, it is accessible via the world’s first panoramic mountain train (¥50 one-way, ¥80 round trip). The 35-minute ride offers stunning views of glaciers, gorges, and alpine lakes.
  • Lugu Lake & Tiger Leaping Gorge: Lugu Lake, home to the matrilineal Mosuo culture, contrasts with Tiger Leaping Gorge’s roaring rapids – a hiker’s paradise.

3. Cultural Immersion: Decoding the Naxi Legacy

Lijiang is the heartland of the Naxi people, whose culture is as ancient as it is vibrant.

  • Dongba Script Workshop: Decipher the world’s only living hieroglyphs and try writing these ancient symbols yourself.
  • Bonfire Dancing: Join the “Da Tiao” dance around bonfires – where everyone is a dancer, never just a spectator.

4. Sustainable Travel: Balancing Tradition and Modernity

Lijiang seamlessly blends preservation with innovation.

  • Smart Heritage Conservation: Blockchain technology authenticates cultural experiences, while smart apps guide low-carbon itineraries.
  • Eco-Promise: Historic structures are restored using traditional techniques, preserving Lijiang’s timeless charm.

5. Travel Tips: Planning Your Lijiang Adventure

  • Best Seasons: March for cherry blossoms; October for golden autumn hues.
  • Festivals: Don’t miss the Sanduo Festival (February) or the Folk Music Festival (summer).
  • Where to Stay: Traditional guesthouses in the old town, like Nandu Inn, offer a blend of Naxi style and modern comfort.
  • Must-Try Food: Savor Naxi grilled fish with local craft beer, or try fresh Black Dragon Pool trout sashimi.

Lijiang, Where Every Encounter Becomes Eternal

Here, history breathes, nature speaks, and culture dances. Whether it’s the quiet dawn in the ancient town or the panoramic train ride to the snow-capped mountains, Lijiang has a way of speaking to every traveler. Pack your bags and come write your own story in this timeless city – where every step is a journey through history and nature.

The top seven cities in China that are popular with travel enthusiasts

TOP 1 : Lijiang
Lijiang, located in Yunnan Province, is an ancient city full of ethnic flavors. The ancient city of Lijiang attracts a large number of foreign tourists with its unique Naxi architectural style and ancient appearance. The streets in the ancient city are built along the mountains and the water, paved with red conglomerate rock, which will not be muddy in the rainy season and will not be dusty in the dry season, and the pattern on the rock is natural and elegant, which complements the whole environment of the ancient city.
Sifang Street is the center of Lijiang Ancient City, which used to be an important trading place on the Tea Horse Road, and now it is a place for tourists to gather. At night, there will be a Naxi bonfire party in Sifang Street, in which people hold hands and dance around the bonfire, and foreign tourists can also take part in it to feel the warmth and joy of the Naxi people.

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is the iconic natural landscape of Lijiang, whose peaks are covered in snow all year round and glitter with silver under the sunlight. Foreign tourists can take the cable car up the snowy mountain to enjoy the magnificent snow scenery, and also experience skiing and other winter sports programs. Lijiang’s Dongba culture is also one of its specialties. The Dongba script is the only living hieroglyphic script in the world, and foreign tourists can learn about this ancient and mysterious culture at the Dongba Culture Museum.
Lijiang’s specialties include preserved pork ribs, Naxi grilled fish, etc. These cuisines have strong ethnic characteristics, and you can learn about Lijiang’s local culture while tasting the delicious food!

TOP 2 : Guangzhou
Guangzhou is known as the “Thousand-Year-Old Commercial Capital”. Guangzhou’s cityscape is unique. Canton Tower, the first tallest tourist observation tower in China and the third tallest in the world, is uniquely shaped and becomes the brightest pearl by the Pearl River at night with the light show.
Guangzhou Morning Tea is one of the specialties of Guangzhou. In the teahouses, a wide variety of dim sums are served. Dim sums such as shrimp dumplings, barbecued pork buns and egg tarts allow foreigners to savor exquisite Cantonese cuisine. Guangzhou is also an important foreign trade port in China. The Beijing Road Pedestrian Street and the Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street gather all kinds of commodities, ranging from traditional handicrafts to modern fashionable clothes.
Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is one of Guangzhou’s cultural calling cards. Its architectural decorations are exquisite, focusing on the mastery of Lingnan folk architectural decorative arts, famous for its “three carvings, three plastics, and one cast iron”, where foreigners can enjoy the traditional Chinese art of architectural carvings.

TOP 3 : Chengdu
Chengdu’s laid-back lifestyle and rich culinary culture attract many domestic and international travelers. The Wuhou Ancestral Hall is a shrine commemorating Zhu Geliang, the prime minister of Shu Han during the Three Kingdoms period, and the red walls and sandwiched pathways have become a Netflix hotspot. It also preserves a large number of cultural relics of the Three Kingdoms, making it a must-visit place for foreigners who love Chinese history and culture, especially the Three Kingdoms culture.
The Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is one of the iconic attractions in Chengdu. The cute giant pandas are China’s national treasures, and foreigners who come here are adorable when they see the naive pandas eating bamboo, playing and sleeping. Chengdu’s food is even more unforgettable, hot pot is the representative food of Chengdu, spicy and fragrant pot base with a variety of ingredients, so that foreigners can experience the hot and spicy passion of Chinese food.
There are also the Broad and Narrow Alleys, the Broad Alley represents the idle life of Chengdu, the Narrow Alley represents the slow life of Chengdu, and the Well Alley represents the new life of Chengdu, where you can taste a variety of Chengdu specialties, such as rabbit head and sugar-oil fruit, etc., and enjoy the traditional architecture of the western Sichuan houses.

TOP 4 : Hangzhou
Hangzhou is known as “Paradise on Earth”, of which the West Lake is one of the most famous scenic spots in China. West Lake is surrounded by mountains on three sides, and the lake is separated by Lonely Mountain, White Causeway, Su Causeway and Yang Gong Causeway, and according to the size of the area, there are five pieces of water surface, such as Outer West Lake, Xili Lake, Beili Lake, Xiaonan Lake and Yuehu Lake, etc. The Ten Scenic Spots of West Lake such as Spring Dawn of Su Causeway, Wind Lotus of Qu Yuan, Autumn Moon of Pinghu Lake, Broken Bridge and other scenic spots of the West Lake are well known.
Visitors can stroll around the West Lake and enjoy the scenery, or take a boat tour to feel the unique flavor of the Jiangnan water town. Hangzhou’s tea culture also has a long history. Longjing Tea from Longjing Village is one of the famous teas in China, and foreign tourists can experience the fun of picking and tasting tea and learn about Chinese tea culture in Longjing Village.
Lingyin Temple is a famous temple in Hangzhou, with magnificent architecture, solemn statues of Buddha and incense, which is visited by a large number of Buddhist believers and foreign tourists every year. Hangzhou also has a well-developed silk industry. The Du Jinsheng Silk Museum showcases the craftsmanship and history of Chinese silk production, and silk products such as silk scarves and pajamas are popular among foreigners.

TOP 5 : Xi’an
Xi’an is one of the four great ancient capitals of China, known as the “Ancient Capital of the Thirteen Dynasties”. The Ancient City Wall is the landmark of Xi’an, which is the largest and best-preserved ancient city wall in China. You can ride bicycles on the wall to feel the vicissitudes and heaviness of this ancient city.
The Terracotta Warriors and Horses of the Mausoleum of Qin Shihuang are known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”. Thousands of terracotta warriors are in different shapes and forms, which are so vivid that they seem to bring people back to the battlefield of the Qin Dynasty. Each Terracotta Warriors and Horses contains the superior skills of ancient craftsmen and is a treasure of ancient Chinese sculpture art, which makes foreign visitors marvel at the strong military power and exquisite craftsmanship of ancient China.
The Big Wild Goose Pagoda in Xi’an is a Buddhist holy place, which is not only a masterpiece of architectural art, but also preserves a large number of Buddhist classics. Xi’an is also famous for its culinary culture, such as meat sandwiches, mutton buns and other specialties, whose unique flavors make foreigners rave about them.

TOP 6 : Shanghai
Shanghai is a cosmopolitan city with great modernization and charm, and is known as the “Paris of the East”. The Bund is Shanghai’s landmark attraction, where a cluster of buildings in various styles such as Gothic, Romanesque, Baroque, etc., are brought together and look especially charming at night when they are illuminated. Across the river in Lujiazui stands numerous skyscrapers, such as the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, whose unique shape has become one of the symbols of Shanghai.
Shanghai also has a rich sea culture. Yuyuan Garden is a classical garden in the south of the Yangtze River, which is characterized by jagged pavilions, lofty mountains and rocks, and glistening lakes, and is renowned as “the most marvelous and beautiful garden in Southeast China”, which allows foreign tourists to experience the sophistication of traditional Chinese gardens. Shanghai’s lane life is unique, the Shikumen building carries the life of the old Shanghai people, Tianzifang is a creative neighborhood transformed on the basis of the Shikumen building, where you can find a variety of unique and creative small stores.
Shanghai’s food is also very attractive, with specialties such as pan-fried dumplings and xiaolongbao being popular among foreigners. Shanghai is also the fashion capital of China. Every year, Shanghai Fashion Week gathers the world’s fashionable eyes, with all kinds of fashion shows and trendy brands for foreign fashion lovers to linger on!

TOP 7 : Beijing
As the capital of China, Beijing has a deep historical and cultural heritage. It is home to the world’s largest city square – Tiananmen Square, where the daily flag-raising ceremony attracts many domestic and foreign tourists. The magnificent Forbidden City, the royal palace of China during the Ming and Qing dynasties, is a magnificent building with red walls, yellow tiles, gold and blue splendor, and halls and towers, high and low, spectacular and majestic, carrying hundreds of years of historical stories.
The Badaling Great Wall winds through the lofty mountains and ridges, and every year a large number of foreigners come here to experience the fun of climbing the Great Wall and feel the wisdom of ancient Chinese military defense. Beijing’s hutongs are a reflection of old Beijing’s city life. In the winding and deep hutongs, you can see traditional courtyard houses and feel the slow pace of old Beijing’s life.
Beijing is also the cultural center of China, with many top museums, such as the National Museum of China, which houses all kinds of cultural relics from ancient times to modern society, making it a good place to learn about China’s historical development. Beijing’s Peking Opera is also a national treasure of China, which fascinates foreigners with its unique singing, exquisite costumes and wonderful performances.