China Family Holidays
China
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From deep basins to the peak of Mount Everest, World Heritage Sites and natural wonders abound in China, and the opportunities for outdoor adventure are huge. China has the world’s fastest growing economy but its ancient, imperial civilisation can still be experienced, alongside the relics of an authoritarian Communist past.
Divided into 32 administrative areas, each has a unique character, dialect and its distinct cuisine. Throughout these regions, climates vary from sub-arctic deserts in the north to tropical rainforests in the south. The northwest is one of the driest areas on the planet, whereas the south receives summer soakings from... (Read more...)
Divided into 32 administrative areas, each has a unique character, dialect and its distinct cuisine. Throughout these regions, climates vary from sub-arctic deserts in the north to tropical rainforests in the south. The northwest is one of the driest areas on the planet, whereas the south receives summer soakings from... (Read more...)
monsoon rains.
Mountains and rough terrain dominate the western regions, where China shares the world’s highest peaks, Everest (8,850m) and K2 (8,611m), with neighbouring Nepal and Pakistan. The majority of its 1.3 billion population occupy the hills and plains of the eastern coast, which stretches over 14,000km along the Pacific Ocean.
Of China’s 50,000 rivers, The Yellow and Yangtze are its lifelines, connecting east to west. Coniferous forests are found in the north, while tropical forests in central and southern areas are home to the endangered Giant Panda and South Asian Tiger.
Mountains and rough terrain dominate the western regions, where China shares the world’s highest peaks, Everest (8,850m) and K2 (8,611m), with neighbouring Nepal and Pakistan. The majority of its 1.3 billion population occupy the hills and plains of the eastern coast, which stretches over 14,000km along the Pacific Ocean.
Of China’s 50,000 rivers, The Yellow and Yangtze are its lifelines, connecting east to west. Coniferous forests are found in the north, while tropical forests in central and southern areas are home to the endangered Giant Panda and South Asian Tiger.
Cultural
One of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World,’ The Great Wall is an iconic feature of China’s fascinating history; the most popular section, Badaling, is little more than an hour’s drive from the capital, Beijing.
From November to March, expect ice and temperatures below -10°C. June to August are the hottest months (up to 30C), and as there’s little opportunity for shade, sun hats are a must.
The Forbidden City lies in the heart of Beijing. Home to 24 emperors from 1368 to 1912, it’s an incredible example of Chinese architecture and imperial culture. Half a day is needed to take it all in.
Just 900 km west of Beijing is the ancient walled city of Xian, home to the Terracotta Army: a collection of over 8000 soldiers, dating back to 210BC. In this region you should expect hot, humid summers and cold winters.
To experience Chinese treasures along an ancient trading route, follow the infamous ‘Silk Road,’ a path that connected eastern China to the Mediterranean Sea. Winding through the vast Taklamakan Desert, this is a fascinating way to discover China’s varying landscapes, exotic architecture and diverse cultures, exploring towns and villages rarely visited by tourists.
If natural wonders are your thing, head south to Guangxi province to discover the surreal limestone peaks of Guilin and authentic farming culture in Yangshou.
For the anthropologist in you, Yunnan province in the southwest is the place to go. Home to 25 ethnic groups, the vibrant cultures here are astounding. The ancient streets and temples of Dali and Lijang are tourist magnets, and Kunming, Yunnan’s capital, is known as ‘The City of Eternal Spring,’ due to its pleasant year-round climate.
Cycling
The level rice fields and farmlands of the Sichuan Basin, in western China, offer 'easy-going' cycling. A subtropical climate keeps year-round temperatures between 9C and 29C. To avoid the hottest months and monsoon rains, steer clear of July and August.
For a greater challenge, head further west towards the Tibetan Plateau, where icing sugar mountains tower above stunning river valleys and expansive grasslands. The quiet roads are ideal for relaxed cycling, while high mountain passes provide an added test for both heart and lungs. From March to October bike fans will find the climate most favourable.
Mountain Biking
Touring the peaceful rice paddies and iconic limestone peaks is a popular activity in Yangshou (Guangxi province), where the quieter pace of life leaves country roads relatively car-free.
In the southwest, Yunnan offers paved roads for those who want to take it easy, with dense forests and off-road trails available for more experienced riders, and snowy peaks creating even tougher climbs. Temperatures average around 14C at sea level, but higher altitudes are significantly cooler.
Multi-Activity
China’s efficient rail network and abundant domestic flights make it possible to experience many natural and man-made treasures in one trip, from ritzy Hong Kong and imperial Beijing, to glaciated mountains and rural splendours.
Yunnan is particularly popular for visitors looking to combine culture and outdoor adventure. Fascinating ethnic minorities, one of the world’s deepest river canyons (Tiger Leaping Gorge), towering mountains and Tibetan monasteries can all be found in the temperate climes of this southwest region.
Overland Tours
With over 3,500,000km of highways, the third largest rail network in the world and 5,600 navigable rivers, China was made for overland travel.
Navigate China’s longest river, The Yangtze, and see the world’s largest hydropower project – the Three Gorges Dam. Peak seasons are spring and autumn, when the climate is most comfortable. Few cruises operate from November through to February, when temperatures drop below zero.
To discover more of central China, Zhongzhou in Henan province, which enjoys a pleasant climate all-year-round, is a great visit. The famous Shaolin Temple stands amidst bonsai-like trees, beneath the sacred Songshan Mountain (the birthplace of Chan Buddhism and the heart of Chinese martial arts).
If snowy mountains and pristine forests are your thing, head west into Tibet. Famed for its alluring Buddhist culture, this massive region harbours the world’s highest mountain ranges (Himalayas and Charlatan). To avoid the summer monsoons and winter freeze, travel from March through October.
Bordering 14 countries in total, China is the gateway to the rest of Asia, and provides a great opportunity to continue your travel into Vietnam, Nepal and beyond.
Trekking
The Great Wall of China stretches for over 6000km, from the east coast to the Gobi Desert, snaking through dramatic canyons, green mountains, barren deserts and ancient villages.
Popular treks lead east from Beijing towards Huanghua and, while some sections are in good condition, ruined areas require demanding scrambling; walkers should be fit and energetic, if they are planning a multi-day trek.
Spring and autumn are good trekking seasons, with May, September and early October being the most comfortable. From November through to April the biting winds and bitter cold make the Wall inhospitable and icy.
To experience rural China, head south to the rice terraces and cone-shaped mountains of temperate Guangxi province, and for lush rainforests and alpine mountain ranges, Yunnan is the place. Top destinations include Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest in the world, and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (almost 6000m). Temperatures are pleasant for trekking all year, but vary with increasing altitude. May to October brings monsoon rains but don’t seem to put off many hikers.
Classic Itineraries
Beijing is a classic starting point and a top destination for taking in China’s historical highlights. From the capital, travel west to the Terracotta Warriors in Xian, before heading south to pick up a Yangtze River cruise from Chongqing to Wuhan. Stop off at Yangshou (Guangxi province) to trek or cycle among limestone peaks, and then continue east to soak up Shanghai’s nightlife or head south for the bright lights of Hong Kong.
In the far southwest, Yunnan province rates highly with cultural and outdoors junkies alike; soak up the customs of 25 different ethnic groups or bike in towering snowy peaks and dense jungle depths - the long journey will be well worth it!
Other Activities
China is forever adding to its repertoire of outdoor pursuits: hiking, bungee jumping, cliff climbing and even skiing are now on the adventure sports menu - or for something more traditional you could enrol in a course of Kung Fu.
