China is an excellent travel destination for families, offering a diverse range of experiences that cater to all ages and interests. There are plenty of places to see and things to do for your China travel with kids. China is a great travel destination for families for several reasons:
- Rich cultural experiences: China has a long and fascinating history, which means there is a wealth of cultural experiences. From exploring the Great Wall of China, visiting the Forbidden City, and experiencing traditional Chinese performances, there are many opportunities to learn about Chinese culture and history.
- Delicious food: Chinese cuisine is renowned for its unique and varied flavors, making it a great destination for foodies. Families can enjoy exploring the local cuisine and trying new dishes together, from traditional Peking duck to the famous hotpot.
- Natural wonders: China is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world, from the rolling hills of Guilin to the majestic peaks of Huangshan. Families can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the great outdoors together.
- Kid-friendly attractions: China has plenty of attractions perfect for families with children. For example, there are several theme parks, such as Shanghai Disneyland and Chimelong Ocean Kingdom, that entertain visitors of all ages.
- Affordable prices: China can be a relatively affordable destination for families, with many options for budget-friendly accommodation and food.
Things to Do in Your China Travel With Kids
There are many things to do in China with kids that offer entertainment and education. Here are some of the top activities for your China travel with kids:
- Visit the Great Wall of China: A visit to the Great Wall is a must-do for families traveling to China. Kids will love exploring the massive wall, learning about its history, and taking in stunning views.
- Experience Chinese culture: From traditional dance and music performances to learning how to write Chinese characters, there are plenty of opportunities for families to immerse themselves in Chinese culture and traditions.
- Enjoy Chinese food: Chinese cuisine is famous worldwide for its unique flavors and diverse dishes. Encourage your kids to try new foods, such as dumplings and Peking duck, and learn more about Chinese culinary culture.
- Explore the Forbidden City: A visit to the Forbidden City is an excellent way to learn about China’s rich history and cultural heritage. The palace complex, once the home of emperors, is full of stunning architecture and intricate details.
- Visit theme parks: China has many theme parks that are perfect for families, such as Shanghai Disneyland and Happy Valley. These parks offer a range of rides and attractions that cater to all ages.
- See pandas: Giant pandas are a national symbol of China, and seeing these lovable creatures is a popular activity for families. There are several panda sanctuaries in China, including the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
- Take a boat ride: Many cities in China have rivers and lakes that can be explored by boat. A boat ride can be a fun and relaxing way to see the sights and take a break from walking.
- Learn Kung Fu: Kung Fu is a Chinese martial art that is popular with kids around the world. Many schools and studios offer Kung Fu classes for kids, allowing them to learn new skills and experience Chinese culture firsthand.
Check out more Things to Do in China With Kids
Where to Go for Your China Travel With Kids
China has many destinations that are perfect for families traveling with kids. Here are some of the top places to go:
- Beijing: As the capital city of China, Beijing is home to many iconic attractions perfect for families, such as the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. It’s a must-visit for your China travel with kids.
- Shanghai: Shanghai is a modern and cosmopolitan city with many kid-friendly attractions, including the Shanghai Disneyland theme park and the Ocean Aquarium.
- Hong Kong: Hong Kong is a bustling metropolis that combines Chinese and Western cultures and offers plenty of family-friendly attractions such as the Hong Kong Disneyland and the Peak Tram. Read more about what to do in Hong Kong with kids.
- Chengdu: Chengdu is the home of the giant panda, and the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a popular attraction for families.
- Guilin: Guilin is famous for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Li River and the karst mountains. Families can take boat rides, go hiking, and explore caves in the area.
- Xi’an: Xi’an is home to the famous Terracotta Warriors, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Families can explore the museum and learn about China’s history and culture.
Get more details with our guide to the Best Cities in China to Visit
Where to Stay in China With Kids
China is a vast country with a range of accommodation options that can suit different travel styles and budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay for your China travel with kids:
- Beijing: As the capital city of China, Beijing has many top-rated hotels catering to business and leisure travelers. The best areas to stay in Beijing include the Forbidden City, Wangfujing Street, and Sanlitun.
- Shanghai: Shanghai is a modern and cosmopolitan city with various accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. The Bund, Nanjing Road, and Jing’an are some of the best areas to stay in Shanghai.
- Hong Kong: Hong Kong is a bustling metropolis with many hotels and serviced apartments catering to business and leisure travelers. Tsim Sha Tsui, Causeway Bay, and Central are some of the best areas to stay in Hong Kong.
- Guilin: Guilin is famous for its stunning natural landscapes, and there are many hotels and resorts that offer scenic views of the Li River and karst mountains. Some of the best areas to stay in Guilin include Yangshuo and the Longji Rice Terraces.
- Xi’an: Xi’an is a popular destination for its ancient history and culture, and there are many hotels and guesthouses that cater to both budget and luxury travelers. The best areas to stay in Xi’an include the city center and near the Bell and Drum Towers.
- Chengdu: Chengdu is the home of the giant panda, and there are many hotels and guesthouses that offer easy access to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Some of the best areas to stay in Chengdu include the city center and the Jinli Ancient Street.
What to Eat in China With Kids
China has a rich culinary tradition, and there are many delicious and kid-friendly dishes to try while visiting. Here are some popular dishes and snacks to eat during your China travel with kids:
- Dumplings: Dumplings are a classic Chinese dish that kids love, and there are many varieties to try, including steamed, pan-fried, and boiled. They can be filled with pork, vegetables, seafood, or sweet fillings like red bean paste.
- Fried rice: Fried rice is a staple in Chinese cuisine, and it is a simple and tasty dish that kids enjoy. It can be made with different meat or vegetables or mixed with egg for added protein.
- Noodles: Noodles are another popular dish in China, and there are many types to try, from thin rice noodles to thick wheat noodles. Some kid-friendly noodle dishes include beef noodle soup, stir-fried noodles with vegetables, and cold sesame noodles.
- Baozi: Baozi are steamed buns filled with meat, vegetables, or sweet fillings, such as red bean paste. They are a popular breakfast or snack food in China and can be found at street vendors or restaurants.
- Fruit: China is famous for its fresh fruits, including lychees, mangoes, dragon fruit, and more. They are a healthy and refreshing snack for kids and can be found at local markets and supermarkets.
- Snacks: China has a variety of unique and tasty snacks that kids will love, such as steamed buns filled with sweet or savory fillings, crispy scallion pancakes, and sweet and crunchy rice cakes.
What to Wear in China
What to wear in China depends on the season, region, and activities you plan to do. Here are some general tips on what to wear for your China travel with kids:
- Dress modestly: China has a conservative culture, and it is recommended to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples, mosques, and other religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing or tight-fitting clothing.
- Comfortable footwear: China has many attractions that require a lot of walking, so it is essential to wear comfortable and sturdy footwear, especially if you plan to visit the Great Wall, hike in national parks, or explore traditional villages.
- Layers: China has a varied climate, and temperatures can vary widely depending on the season and region. It is recommended to dress in layers, especially during spring and autumn, when temperatures can change quickly throughout the day.
- Sun protection: China can be very sunny, and it is important to bring sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.
- Cultural sensitivity: When visiting religious sites, it is recommended to dress conservatively and remove shoes before entering, so it is best to wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off.
- Rain gear: In some parts of China, such as Shanghai and Guangzhou, it can rain heavily during the summer months, so it is recommended to bring rain gear such as an umbrella or a rain jacket.
When to Go for Your China Travel With Kids
The best time to go to China depends on the region you plan to visit and the activities you plan to do. Here are some general tips on the best months to visit China:
- Spring (March-May): Spring is a popular time to visit China, as the weather is mild and there are many festivals to enjoy, such as the Qingming Festival and the Dragon Boat Festival. This is a good time to visit cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xian.
- Summer (June-August): Summer is the peak tourist season in China, with warm weather and long daylight hours. This is a good time to visit popular destinations like the Great Wall and the Yangtze River but be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
- Autumn (September-November): Autumn is a great time to visit China, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. This is a good time to visit regions like Yunnan and Guilin and to attend festivals like the Mid-Autumn Festival.
- Winter (December-February): Winter is the low season in China, with colder temperatures and shorter daylight hours. However, this is a good time to visit ski resorts in northern China or to celebrate Chinese New Year.
How Long to Stay in China
The amount of time you should spend for your China travel with kids depends on your travel goals, budget, and itinerary. China is a large country with many different regions to explore, each with its own unique attractions and activities. Here are some factors to consider when deciding how long to stay in China:
- Your itinerary: The length of your stay in China will depend on where you plan to go and what you plan to see. If you plan to visit only one or two cities, you may need less time than if you plan to visit multiple regions.
- Your travel style: If you prefer a more relaxed pace of travel, you may need more time to explore each destination. If you prefer a fast-paced trip, you may be able to see more in a shorter amount of time.
- Seasonal factors: The time of year you plan to visit China may affect the amount of time you need. For example, if you plan to hike the Great Wall in the summer, you may need extra time to accommodate for hot weather and crowds.
- Your budget: The length of your stay in China will also depend on your budget. If you have a limited budget, you may need to prioritize certain attractions or regions to visit.
In general, to experience the highlights of China, it is recommended to spend at least 10-14 days. This will allow you to visit major destinations like Beijing, Xian, and Shanghai and perhaps add on a trip to natural attractions like Zhangjiajie or the Yangtze River. However, if you have more time and are interested in exploring more off-the-beaten-path regions, you could easily spend a month or more in China.
1-Week China Itinerary With Family
With only one week to explore China with your family, it is best to focus on one or two cities that offer a mix of cultural and family-friendly activities. Here is a suggested 1-week itinerary for China with family:
Day 1-3: Beijing
- Visit the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square
- Hike the Great Wall of China
- Explore the Temple of Heaven
- Watch a Kung Fu show at the Red Theatre
- Enjoy local street food at Wangfujing Snack Street
Day 4-6: Shanghai
- See the iconic Bund and the modern skyscrapers of Pudong
- Visit the Shanghai Museum and Yu Garden
- Explore the interactive exhibits at the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum
- Take a boat ride on the Huangpu River
- Enjoy a family-friendly show like the ERA Acrobats or Shanghai Circus World
Day 7: Departure
- Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time to explore Shanghai before heading to the airport.
Note that this itinerary can be customized depending on your family’s interests and preferences. If you have extra time, consider adding a day trip to the water town of Zhujiajiao or the ancient city of Xian.
2-Week China Itinerary With Family
With two weeks to explore China with your family, you can expand your itinerary to include additional cities and attractions. Here is a suggested 2-week itinerary for your China travel with kids:
Day 1-4: Beijing
- Visit the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square
- Hike the Great Wall of China
- Explore the Temple of Heaven
- Watch a Kung Fu show at the Red Theatre
- Enjoy local street food at Wangfujing Snack Street
Day 5-7: Xian
- See the Terracotta Warriors and Horses
- Explore the Ancient City Wall
- Visit the Muslim Quarter and Great Mosque
- Learn how to make Chinese dumplings in a local cooking class
Day 8-10: Chengdu
- Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
- Explore the ancient Jinli Street
- Visit the Wuhou Temple and Jinsha Site Museum
- Enjoy spicy Sichuan cuisine
Day 11-13: Guilin and Yangshuo
- Take a cruise on the Li River and see the stunning karst landscape
- Explore the Reed Flute Cave and Elephant Trunk Hill
- Take a bike ride through the countryside in Yangshuo
- Attend a local minority cultural show
Day 14: Shanghai
- See the iconic Bund and the modern skyscrapers of Pudong
- Visit the Shanghai Museum and Yu Garden
- Explore the interactive exhibits at the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum
- Take a boat ride on the Huangpu River
- Enjoy a family-friendly show like the ERA Acrobats or Shanghai Circus World
Day 15: Departure
- Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time to explore Shanghai before heading to the airport.
Have more time? Check out our China 3-Week Itinerary
How to Get Around China
China has a well-developed transportation system that includes options for getting around by air, train, bus, and taxi. Here are some common ways to getting around China:
- Air: China has a number of domestic airlines that offer flights between major cities, as well as smaller regional airports. This can be a good option for longer distances, especially if you are short on time.
- Train: China has an extensive railway network, with high-speed trains that can reach speeds of up to 300 km/h. This is a convenient and comfortable option for traveling between cities that are relatively close together.
- Bus: Buses are available in most cities and can be a budget-friendly option for getting around within a city or to nearby destinations. However, bus travel can be less comfortable and take longer than train or air travel.
- Taxi: Taxis are available in most cities and are a convenient way to get around within a city. However, be sure to choose a reputable taxi company, negotiate the fare in advance, and ensure that the driver is using the meter.
- Metro: Many of China’s larger cities have efficient metro systems that are clean, safe, and easy to use. This is a good option for getting around within a city, especially during rush hour when traffic can be heavy.
It’s important to note that English signage and communication can be limited in China, so it can be helpful to have a basic understanding of Mandarin Chinese or to carry a translation app or phrasebook with you. Additionally, always be sure to carry your passport and any necessary visas or travel permits with you when traveling in China.
