
A first-time China travel basics guide covering payment, passport hotel check-in, domestic flights, trains, luggage, food restrictions, phone setup and daily backups.
Travel topic
Start here when food is part of the trip, not just a meal stop. These guides collect local restaurants, snack streets, ordering context, and city-specific dining advice.
49 related articles

A first-time China travel basics guide covering payment, passport hotel check-in, domestic flights, trains, luggage, food restrictions, phone setup and daily backups.

A practical China ordering card for vegetarian, vegan and food-restriction travelers, with Chinese phrases, what hidden ingredients to watch for and safer restaurant choices.

A first-time visitor guide to Chengdu food, covering hotpot, chuanchuan, noodles, street snacks, teahouses, spice levels, and how to build an easy food route without overpacking the day.

A practical 3-day Chongqing itinerary for first-time visitors, balancing Jiefangbei, Hongya Cave, Liziba, old streets, hotpot, river views, and realistic buffer time.

A Zhangjiajie local food guide for first-time visitors, covering sanxiaguo, cured meat, sour soup fish, spice levels, Wulingyuan meals and what to eat after mountain days.

In China, strict vegetarians should not rely on “no meat” alone. Check broth, oil, seasonings and small toppings, prepare a short Chinese vegetarian card, save restaurants before arrival and keep backup food for arrival and transfer days.

A compact Chengdu day trip to Pengzhou by train: about 23 minutes from Xipu, Longxing Temple, Longxing Water Street, local food and evening lights in one easy day.

At the popular Sandi Cup restaurant in Shanghai, I delighted in a tasting of twelve signature dishes featuring both hit and miss flavors, creating a remarkable sensory experience.

This article introduces stylish bistros in Shanghai, inviting you to indulge in exquisite French toast and perfectly grilled Wagyu beef throughout the city.

Savor homestyle dishes at hidden eateries in Beijing's Chaonei, leaving you with unforgettable aftertastes.

A practical Shanghai local pot rice and budget restaurant guide under 80 RMB, with what to order, metro access, queue timing, seasonal notes and a quick choice table.

After living in Shanghai for a decade, I share my favorite hidden culinary treasures, from unique late-night barbecues to authentic Taiwanese dishes, inviting you to experience the city's rich and diverse food culture.

Embark on a culinary adventure in Shanghai and discover 10 must-visit hidden gem restaurants with your friends, featuring delights like Lao Taigong and Hongxing Dumplings for a feast full of flavor and joy.

Discover five local favorites near Jiangsu Road in Shanghai, recommended by locals. These hidden gems offer authentic regional flavors, providing a diverse dining experience.

Five Shanghai date-night restaurants with atmosphere notes, booking checks, who each place suits and how to avoid choosing a romantic spot that feels inconvenient.

A practical Speak Low Shanghai guide covering reservations, hidden-door access, opening-time caveats, photo expectations, menu budget and who this cocktail stop suits.

This guide is all you need for a Citywalk in Shanghai during May Day, featuring four must-visit routes that cater to diverse interests, offering experiences in fashion, food, history, and art.

This year, I visited one of the least explored destinations, and I'm a bit worried it might become popular. Join me as we uncover the stunning sights of Jiande, Hangzhou, experience the breathtaking views at Maling Tian观, and embark on an exhilarating adventure in nature!

Instead of the crowded spots, I prefer these 7 lesser-known autumn views in Hangzhou 🍂 Explore peaceful autumn scenery and enjoy the tranquility of the city.

A historical snapshot of the 2025 Shanghai Michelin selection, with a few examples and a practical way to check restaurants before a current trip.

This comprehensive guide to Shanghai Film Park covers the best times to visit, ticket information, must-see attractions, hidden gems, photography tips, snack recommendations, and transportation advice, ensuring visitors fully immerse themselves in the allure of film production.

This article offers a comprehensive guide for travelers heading to Hangzhou, detailing transportation options, popular attractions, food recommendations, and photo spots. It ensures that visitors make the most of their two-day journey, soaking in the beauty of West Lake and the unique charm of Hangzhou.

Experience the mesmerizing performances at the Lao She Teahouse and witness the seamless blend of traditional arts and contemporary performances! From tea ceremonies to magic shows, enjoy the charm of China's folk art!

This article recommends the 12 best Peking duck restaurants in Beijing, featuring a variety of traditional and innovative styles to cater to different palates.

This article highlights 12 must-visit restaurants for Beijing roast duck, each offering its unique flavors and fusion styles, recommended for all duck enthusiasts.

This article presents a guide to the must-visit bars in Shanghai that have previously ranked among Asia's Top 50. Each bar boasts its own unique charm, whether it's Japanese mixology or an American country vibe—definitely worth experiencing!

Explore Zhengzhou in just half a day with this guide, featuring unique dishes from the Mixue Ice City headquarters, delightful dining and relaxation spots on Financial Island, a variety of goods at Yonghui Supermarket, and picturesque moments in the botanical garden, embracing the charm and flavors of Zhengzhou.

I thought West Lake was beautiful enough, but on a rainy day at Yunqi Bamboo Path, I entered a fairy tale world, immersed in the cultural beauty of bamboo forests and tea fields during Hangzhou's rainy season.

Get ready for an exciting two-day itinerary in Hangzhou! On the first day, explore the iconic sights of West Lake, bike through its scenic views, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and enjoy a captivating evening performance. The second day is dedicated to Lingyin Temple, where you can immerse yourself in Zen culture and tea traditions, adding depth and excitement to your journey.

Explore the enchanting blue hour in Hot Spring County, featuring breathtaking views of Lotus Pool hot springs, essential tips, local food recommendations, and accommodation insights.

This travel guide to Tekes Bagua City highlights must-see attractions, food recommendations, transportation tips, nearby sights, and essential precautions, helping you enjoy this unique city without traffic lights!

Next time, I’ll skip Sailimu Lake and head straight to Warm Spring County in Xinjiang. The county offers superior conditions for summer relaxation and wellness, with excellent tourism infrastructure, a wide variety of food options, and especially the free 24-hour public hot springs. In contrast, while Sailimu Lake has a free admission policy, its conditions are less flexible, making the scenery and cuisine of Warm Spring County truly unforgettable.

Zhengzhou, Henan is a city where delicious food comes at a friendly price, allowing you to indulge for just 50 Yuan. This article recommends the best budget-friendly eateries in Zhengzhou, showcasing local hidden gems that are not only tasty but also wallet-friendly, making them perfect for a weekend food adventure.

Ten older Shanghai dining notes with recorded CNY 31-212 spending per person. Check current menus, branches and any MICHELIN distinction before going.

Capture the stunning lights of the international architecture, savor delicious seafood stir-fried noodles and crispy pork cutlets, buy Hello Kitty postcards, explore Fuzhou Road and the Foreign Bookstore with friends, and immerse yourself in unique cultural creations and local delicacies.
Discover an essential 3-day itinerary for your first visit to Beijing, featuring key attractions, local delicacies, transportation tips, and common pitfalls to avoid, ensuring a smooth exploration of this city where history meets modernity.

This article unveils the most breathtaking Citywalk routes in Beijing, featuring areas like Dongjiaominxiang and Xixinglong Street, along with a selection of charming shops and food recommendations, perfect for weekend exploration and capturing memories.

This article provides a guide for exploring Jiefangbei in Chongqing at night, featuring food recommendations and popular local restaurants. It highlights the special snacks on Bayi Food Street and discusses the culinary delights of Xingshi Tiaopi Dougan, Li Ruotao, Gui Baozi, Tianbang Old Hot Pot, and Lao Qiuqiu, all while enjoying the stunning nighttime views.

This article presents 9 must-try traditional eateries at Liberation Monument, including Shancheng Restaurant, Sanyangzi, and Lianjie Hotpot, inviting you to savor authentic Chongqing flavors that will leave a lasting impression.

Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street is an essential stop in Chongqing, blending history and modernity. It's a perfect place for shopping, indulging in local delicacies, and enjoying breathtaking night views, making it an ideal spot for visitors to explore this mountainous city.

Explore the enchanting night views of Hongyadong, where romance and culinary delights await in the heart of Chongqing's unique charm.

This article offers a comprehensive guide for a day trip to the Dazu Rock Carvings in Chongqing, including transportation details, a suggested itinerary, food recommendations, and great photo spots, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the culture and cuisine of Dazu.

Discover eight authentic copper pot hotpot restaurants recommended by locals, offering genuine flavors and great value that will leave you craving more.

Explore Dujiangyan in just half a day! This guide takes you through the scenic spots of Dujiangyan, the ancient city of Guanxian, and the stunning blue tears, all while saving you time and energy to enjoy delicious food and beautiful sights!

Celebrate the Lantern Festival in Nanluoguxiang, where you can enjoy an authentic Beijing festive atmosphere along this cultural Citywalk! Don't miss the annual performance 'Black Eyes on the Plateau' at Nanluo Theater, which blends culture and artistry for a unique travel experience.

This article highlights the culinary delights of Nanluoguxiang, featuring traditional snacks and unique eateries, along with pricing and dish characteristics, to guide readers toward an authentic dining experience.

A practical 798 Art District food guide with seven restaurant picks, average prices, what to order, when each place works best, and how to plan food around a gallery visit.

A curated list of 22 cold noodle shops in Changsha · Part One (with locations). This guide explores various unique cold noodle establishments, evaluating their flavors, cleanliness, service, and more, offering recommendations for a delightful summer dining experience.

Explore Taiping Street's culinary delights in Changsha, where you can indulge in delicious snacks like stinky tofu, fried skewers, and milk tea for less than 20 yuan per person, satisfying your cravings.