China FAQs

What is the best time to visit China?

The best time to visit China is generally during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer comfortable temperatures, stunning scenery and ideal conditions for sightseeing.

China is enormous, so the weather can vary significantly by region. Beijing and Shanghai enjoy pleasant spring and autumn weather, while southern destinations are warmer year-round. Autumn is often considered the best season for exploring China's major cities, natural wonders and cultural attractions.

How long should I spend in China?

Most New Zealand travellers spend 10 to 14 days in China to experience the country's major highlights.

This usually allows enough time to visit destinations such as Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an and Guilin. If you're interested in exploring more regions or combining city experiences with natural landscapes, a 2 to 3-week itinerary is ideal.

Where should I go on holiday in China?

China offers an extraordinary mix of ancient history, modern cities, natural wonders and cultural experiences. Visit Beijing for the Great Wall, Forbidden City and rich history, Shanghai for modern architecture, shopping and dining, Xi'an for the Terracotta Warriors, Guilin and Yangshuo for spectacular karst mountain scenery, Chengdu for giant pandas and Sichuan cuisine, Zhangjiajie for dramatic landscapes that inspired Avatar and Hong Kong for a vibrant city break and stopover experience.

Many first-time visitors combine Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai.

Is China a good holiday destination for New Zealanders?

Absolutely. China offers incredible diversity, from ancient temples and UNESCO World Heritage sites to futuristic cities and stunning natural landscapes.

Whether you're interested in history, food, culture, shopping, nature or family adventures, China provides experiences unlike anywhere else in the world.

Is China a good stopover destination?

Yes. Major cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou can make fascinating stopover destinations between New Zealand and Europe or other parts of Asia.

A stopover allows you to experience China's unique blend of ancient culture and modern innovation while breaking up a longhaul journey.

Do I need a visa for China from New Zealand?

Visa and entry requirements can change, so it's important to check the latest official requirements before booking and travelling.

Depending on current policies, visa-free transit and short-stay arrangements may be available in some circumstances, but we recommend always staying up to date with the latest information before departure, on Safe Travel.

How do I find the best China holiday package?

The best China holidays often combine flights, accommodation, internal transport and guided sightseeing.

Because China is so large, planning a well-paced itinerary is important. Many travellers choose escorted tours or tailor-made holidays that combine major cities with cultural and scenic highlights.

Is China expensive to visit?

China can suit a wide range of budgets.

You'll find everything from luxury hotels and premium dining experiences to affordable accommodation, efficient public transport and excellent value local cuisine. Your overall spend will depend on the destinations you visit and your travel style.

How much does a China holiday cost from NZ?

China offers options for almost every budget.

Many travellers find accommodation, local transport and dining are good value, particularly outside the major international hotel chains. Costs will vary depending on the cities visited, accommodation standard and sightseeing included in your itinerary.

Where should I stay in China?

The best place to stay depends on your itinerary. Beijing is ideal for history and iconic landmarks, Shanghai is perfect for shopping, dining and modern city life, Xi'an is popular for cultural and historical attractions, Chengdu is known for pandas and food experiences and Guilin and Yangshuo are ideal for scenery and outdoor exploration.

China offers accommodation options ranging from international hotel brands to boutique hotels and traditional guesthouses.

What should I pack for China?

Packing will depend on the season and where you're travelling.

We recommend bringing:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Lightweight layers
• Power bank or portable charger
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Any prescription medications
• Travel adapter
• A light rain jacket or umbrella

If travelling during winter, especially to northern China, pack warm clothing as temperatures can drop below freezing.

Do I need travel insurance for China?

Yes, travel insurance is strongly recommended.

A comprehensive policy can help cover medical expenses, travel disruptions, cancellations and lost luggage. Given the size of the country and the amount of travel many visitors do, insurance provides valuable peace of mind.

What currency is used in China?

China uses the Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY), often referred to as RMB.

Digital payments are extremely common in China, but it's still a good idea to carry some cash and ensure your cards will work internationally.

Can I use New Zealand dollars in China?

No, New Zealand dollars are not accepted for everyday purchases.

You'll need to exchange NZD into Chinese Yuan or access local currency through ATMs and approved payment methods.

Is China safe for travellers?

China is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, with millions of international visitors travelling throughout the country each year.

As with any destination, it's important to remain aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure and follow local laws and regulations.

Can you drink tap water in China?

It's generally recommended that visitors avoid drinking tap water in China.

Stick to bottled, filtered or boiled water throughout your trip. Most hotels provide drinking water options for guests.

How do I get around China?

China has one of the world's most extensive transport networks.

Take a high-speed train, domestic flight, use the subways, taxi services, ride-share services or private transfers.

China's high-speed rail network is one of the fastest and most efficient ways to travel between major cities.

Do I need to hire a car in China?

Most visitors do not need a rental car.

Public transport is efficient, affordable and well connected in major cities. High-speed trains and domestic flights make travelling between destinations easy, and most travellers find these options far more convenient than driving themselves.

What are the best things to do in China?

China is packed with world-famous attractions and unique cultural experiences.

Some must-do experiences include:

• Walking the Great Wall of China
• Exploring the Forbidden City in Beijing
• Visiting the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an
• Cruising the Li River in Guilin
• Seeing giant pandas in Chengdu
• Exploring Shanghai's Bund waterfront
• Visiting Zhangjiajie's dramatic mountain landscapes
• Experiencing traditional Chinese cuisine across different regions

Is China family-friendly?

Yes. China offers a range of family-friendly experiences, from interactive museums and cultural attractions to theme parks, wildlife parks and historical sites.

Children often love visiting the Great Wall, seeing pandas in Chengdu, riding high-speed trains and discovering the country's rich history and culture.

What cultural etiquette should I know before visiting China?

China is welcoming to visitors, and a little cultural awareness goes a long way.

Be respectful when visiting temples and cultural sites, use both hands when giving or receiving important items, learn a few simple Mandarin greetings, if possible, be patient in busy public areas and transport hubs.

Showing respect for local customs is always appreciated.

Do I need cash or can I use cards in China?

Digital payments are widely used throughout China and many businesses prefer electronic payment methods.

However, it's still wise to carry some local currency, especially when visiting smaller towns, markets or local businesses. Check that your cards and payment methods will work before departure.

What apps should I download before travelling to China?

These apps can make travelling around China much easier:

• Google Translate (download offline language packs before departure)
• WeChat
• Alipay
• Baidu Maps or Apple Maps
• Metro apps for major cities
• XE Currency Converter

It's also worth researching connectivity options before you travel, as some international apps and services may not be readily available.