China, the world's most populous country and second-largest economy, offers an unparalleled diversity of landscapes, history, and culture spanning 5,000 years of continuous civilization. From the futuristic skyline of Shanghai to the Great Wall's ancient stones, China juxtaposes tradition and modernity like no other destination. The country encompasses tropical Hainan's beaches, the Tibetan Plateau's majestic heights, the Yangtze River's gorges, and the Gobi Desert's expanses. China's 56 recognized ethnic groups contribute to vibrant regional cultures, cuisines, and festivals, while its rapid development has created some of the planet's most dynamic cities. Visitors discover both UNESCO World Heritage Sites and cutting-edge infrastructure throughout this vast nation.

**Beijing:** Imperial capital with Forbidden City, Great Wall access. **Shanghai:** Ultra-modern financial hub with historic Bund. **Xi'an:** Terracotta Warriors and ancient city walls. **Guilin/Yangshuo:** Iconic karst mountain landscapes. **Tibet:** Lhasa's Potala Palace and Himalayan vistas. **Yunnan:** Diverse minority cultures and Tiger Leaping Gorge. **Hainan:** Tropical beaches and resorts. **Sichuan:** Panda bases and spicy cuisine. **Xinjiang:** Silk Road history and desert scenery.

Extremely diverse due to vast size: **North (Beijing):** Hot summers (30°C+), cold winters (below 0°C). **Central (Shanghai):** Humid subtropical with four seasons. **South (Guangzhou):** Tropical with monsoon rains. **West (Tibet):** Alpine conditions year-round. Best general travel seasons are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October).

Visas required for most nationalities (apply before travel). 72/144-hour transit visas available at major ports. Strict customs regulations on drugs, publications, and religious materials. Currency over $5,000 must be declared. Tibet requires special permits arranged through tours.

**Major international airports:** Beijing (PEK), Shanghai (PVG), Guangzhou (CAN), Hong Kong (HKG). **Overland routes:** From Russia, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal. **Cruises:** Yangtze River and coastal port calls. High-speed rail connects with Hong Kong.

**Domestic flights:** Extensive network between 200+ airports. **High-speed rail:** World's largest network (up to 350km/h). **Subways:** In 40+ cities, excellent in major metros. **Taxis:** Abundant and inexpensive. **Buses:** Comprehensive but challenging for non-Mandarin speakers. **Didis:** Chinese ride-hailing app (English version available).

Foreign licenses generally not valid (need Chinese license or international permit with official translation). Traffic chaotic in cities. Toll highways extensive. Parking difficult in urban centers. Self-driving rare for tourists - recommend drivers or public transport.

Great mobile coverage in populated areas. VPN needed for Google/Facebook/WhatsApp. WeChat essential for payments/communication. Local SIMs available (China Mobile/Unicom) with passport. Free WiFi in hotels/restaurants (often requires Chinese number for verification).

**Luxury:** International chains and local brands (Aman, Banyan Tree). **Business hotels:** Ctrip/Hotel groups nationwide. **Boutique:** Traditional courtyard houses in Beijing, Shanghai. **Hostels:** Good quality with English-speaking staff. **Homestays:** Rural minority areas. Booking requires passport details.

**Currency:** Renminbi/Yuan (CNY). **Cash:** Still important, especially outside cities. **Mobile pay:** WeChat Pay/Alipay dominate (need Chinese bank account). **ATMs:** Widely available (check card compatibility). **Tipping:** Not customary but becoming more common.

**Police:** 110. **Ambulance:** 120. **Fire:** 119. **Tourist Hotline:** 12301. **US Embassy Beijing:** (86-10) 8531-3000. **Weather:** 12121.

**Hainan:** Sanya's Yalong Bay, Dadonghai. **Mainland:** Beidaihe, Xiamen's Gulangyu. **Hong Kong:** Repulse Bay, Shek O. Best season May-October. Water quality varies - check local reports. Few private beach resorts.

Limited options: **Hainan:** Coral reefs near Wuzhizhou Island. **Hong Kong:** Sharp Island, Port Island. Visibility often poor (5-15m). Best season April-September. Equipment rental standards variable.

**Markets:** Silk, pearls, tea (bargain hard). **Malls:** Luxury goods in major cities. **Antiques:** Require export certificates. **Fakes:** Common but illegal. VAT refunds for non-residents (look for tax-free shops). Electronics often cheaper than abroad.

**Regional specialties:** Peking duck, Sichuan hotpot, Cantonese dim sum, Xi'an dumplings. **Street food:** Night markets everywhere. **Fine dining:** Michelin-starred options in Shanghai/Beijing. **Etiquette:** Chopstick skills helpful. Tea culture important. Food safety generally good at busy establishments.