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First Time China

First Time China travel advice: explore real journeys, destination experiences and practical advice from travelers.

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32 videos
  1. China is NOT What I Expected FIRST Impressions of Shanghai
    46 min
    2026-06
    China is NOT What I Expected FIRST Impressions of ShanghaiShanghai First Impressions: Hot Pot, The Bund & PhoneUse a physical SIM or eSIM with a Chinese number to access Alipay and WeChat Pay; without internet, maps and payments can become unavailable.For camera gear in Shanghai, go to the DJI store in the camera complex near Nanjing Road, as Robert says this saved him time searching.Summer, Shanghai
  2. Her Honest Experience After 5 Weeks in China
    28 min
    2026-04
    Her Honest Experience After 5 Weeks in ChinaFive Weeks in China: Honest Reflections from a First TimerTimi says some cultural differences surprised her, including spitting and loud shouting. She also noticed the scale of Chinese malls, which can have seven, eighAt Dianchi Lake, Timi sees people shouting at seagulls to make them fly for photos. She warns that white bread can kill birds and recommends using seeds or cornSpring, Kunming / Yunnan
  3. I Visited Beijing for the FIRST Time
    17 min
    2026-02
    I Visited Beijing for the FIRST TimeBeijing travel: Mutianyu Great Wall by cable car, toboggan,Arrive at Mutianyu with a plan, dress warmly, and bring gloves. Always Away rides the cable car up and toboggan down, and suggests being aware of crowds while nA watchtower visit can involve steep, uneven stairs. Keep your balance and take time on the steps; Always Away also recommends bringing a camera and being consiWinter, BeijingWuhan / Hubei
  4. Surviving CHINA’S Coldest City | Harbin (Part 2)
    26 min
    2026-01
    Surviving CHINA’S Coldest City | Harbin (Part 2)Harbin in December: Sun Island and Ice and Snow World Cold-ТThe metro is a modern, affordable way to make short trips between Harbin sights. Always Away use it as they move around during their winter visit.Wear gloves, a coat, and boots before going outdoors in Harbin’s cold. The travelers find winter gear affordable and rely on it during their December visit.Winter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
  5. They told us to AVOID this city in CHINA (We Ignored Them)
    15 min
    2026-01
    They told us to AVOID this city in CHINA (We Ignored Them)Harbin Winter Travel: Ice Festival & Quirky Delights Despite ColdIn very cold weather, plan indoor stops and warming breaks between outdoor sights. Always Away visited food stops and shops while exploring Harbin in around -25Harbin’s Russian-influenced architecture is part of the city experience. The travelers explored buildings and tried European-style dishes alongside local winterWinter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
  6. Trying Street Food at a Night Market in China
    7 min
    2025-05
    Trying Street Food at a Night Market in ChinaHangzhou Street Food Adventure: West Lake & Wulin Night MarketGreen tea ice cream is one of the snacks Always Away try, and it comes in a bamboo tub. The container is a distinctive part of the treat and can make a small soA pleasure boat on West Lake can be crowded, as the travelers find, but it still offers views of the lake, mountains and sunset. Consider the boat for a differeSpring, Shanghai
  7. What’s China REALLY like?! | First time in HANGZHOU travel vlog
    17 min
    2025-05
    What’s China REALLY like?! | First time in HANGZHOU travel vlogHangzhou Travel Vlog: Lingyin Temple & Leifeng Pagoda ViewsAt Lingyin Temple, statues holding bowls are used to catch and imprison dragons, a motif found in the caves. A guide can explain the figures and how they fit inThe guide says rubbing the foot of the Tibetan Buddha of Wealth is believed to bring good luck with finances. The figure is shown with a crown and accessories aSpring, Hangzhou / Zhejiang
  8. Insanely Delicious Food in HANGZHOU, CHINA | Travel Vlog
    10 min
    2025-04
    Insanely Delicious Food in HANGZHOU, CHINA | Travel VlogHangzhou Food & Nightlife: Spicy Grilled Fish & Bar CrawlStart with a traditional Chinese breakfast of dumplings, eggs, rice porridge, and steamed buns. The travelers have this meal before leaving Wuzhen for Hangzhou.Cow Master is a popular chain known for Sichuan-style spicy grilled fish. The travelers recommend trying it for its distinctive flavors and accompanying dishes.Spring, Hangzhou / Zhejiang
  9. SHOCKED by Local FOOD in CHINA | First Time in China Travel Vlog
    20 min
    2025-04
    SHOCKED by Local FOOD in CHINA | First Time in China Travel VlogChina Food Adventure: Suzhou & Wuzhen Water Town ExplorationBusy local restaurants with queues can offer an authentic meal. The Suzhou restaurant the group visits has shared tables and local dishes.Sharing a large table with local diners is common in busy restaurants and lets travelers experience how meals are served.Spring, Shanghai
  10. FIRST TIME in CHINA | Blown Away by Suzhou! Travel Vlog
    19 min
    2025-04
    FIRST TIME in CHINA | Blown Away by Suzhou! Travel VlogFirst Time in Suzhou China: A Traveler's Unforgettable First ImpressionsTry the local specialty crab roe noodles for a delicious regional lunch experience.Visit the Humble Administrator's Garden, a UNESCO site, for an unparalleled display of classical Chinese garden design.Spring, Suzhou / Jiangsu
  11. Unforgettable First Day in Nanning, China
    22 min
    2025-03
    Unforgettable First Day in Nanning, ChinaNanning, China: A Captivating First Day ExplorationTo get to the chrysanthemum park in Nanning, take one of the electric trains mentioned in the source. The ride is described as convenient and scenic, making it Two Mad Explorers describe people in Nanning as kind and welcoming. They encourage visitors to interact with residents, whose help and friendliness added to theSpring, Nanning / Guangxi
  12. We were NOT prepared for this hotpot dinner in Chongqing China (OMG?!)
    20 min
    2025-03
    We were NOT prepared for this hotpot dinner in Chongqing China (OMG?!)Chongqing Hotpot Adventure: A Spicy China Food ExperienceApproach unfamiliar foods with curiosity and consider trying a small amount. New tastes and textures can be part of learning about local food traditions.Take opportunities to speak with people you meet while traveling. Conversations can create lasting memories and give you a better understanding of local cultureSpring, Chongqing
  13. This 5-Star Hotel in Chongqing is INSANE Watch this!
    15 min
    2025-03
    This 5-Star Hotel in Chongqing is INSANE Watch this!Glenview ITC Plaza: Luxury Hotel in Chongqing, ChinaOliver notes that the Glenview ITC Plaza has international outlets. He contrasts this with his Beijing experience, where he found only American type A outlets, The Glenview ITC Plaza is centrally located in Chongqing, with metro access and the famous light building nearby. Oliver uses the hotel as a base for seeing theSpring, Chongqing
  14. The MOST HATED Country in the World is Actually AMAZING!
    24 min
    2025-03
    The MOST HATED Country in the World is Actually AMAZING!Chongqing: Exploring China's Unexpected CharmChongqing and Chengdu are known for their hot pot, but there's a friendly rivalry between the two cities about its origin. Be sure to try both and decide for yoMany older buildings in Chongqing have bars on the windows, a leftover security measure from the past. It's a reminder of how much the city has changed.Spring, Chongqing
  15. We Took a Yellow Taxi in CHONGQING and Almost DIED...
    16 min
    2025-02
    We Took a Yellow Taxi in CHONGQING and Almost DIED...Chongqing Taxi Adventure: A Thrilling First Day in ChinaTraffic in Chongqing can be intense, and the taxi driver in Oliver's video drives quickly through dense streets. Consider using a ride-hailing app such as Didi Chongqing has many street-food stalls and night-market snacks, including affordable choices. Oliver and Charlie find food at several prices as they explore afteWinter, Chongqing
  16. We Tried PIG BRAINS in Chongqing! China Culture Decoding Vlog
    21 min
    2025-02
    We Tried PIG BRAINS in Chongqing! China Culture Decoding VlogChongqing Culinary Adventure: Pig Brains & City ExplorationFor sunset views in Chongqing, reach a viewpoint overlooking the city before the sun goes down. Buildings and bridges light up after dark and create a striking Carry a portable charger when traveling in China. You may use your phone for several tasks, including navigation and making payments, and charging it on the go Winter, Chongqing
  17. They Made Me DANCE In A Chinese STRIP CLUB in Chongqing!
    17 min
    2025-02
    They Made Me DANCE In A Chinese STRIP CLUB in Chongqing!Chongqing Nightlife: Unexpected Dance ExperienceOliver shares his free travel tips document, including advice on booking cheap flights, finding the best travel insurance, and getting the cheapest eSIM cards fThe document also includes access to all of Oliver's Google Maps pins, taking viewers to the best places in many countries. This bonus feature adds another layeWinter, Chongqing
  18. Chongqing: a 34 Million MEGA City You NEVER Heard Of!
    33 min
    2025-02
    Chongqing: a 34 Million MEGA City You NEVER Heard Of!Chongqing: Exploring a Hidden Mega City in ChinaOliver describes WeChat as essential for accessing services in China. It helps simplify daily tasks and provides access to platforms and registration processes QR codes are used for access, information, and transactions, so make sure your phone has enough battery while traveling. Oliver uses the phone throughout the daWinter, Chongqing
  19. Goodbye UK! Flying to China for the First Time!
    16 min
    2025-01
    Goodbye UK! Flying to China for the First Time!First Impressions: Exploring Shanghai, ChinaAirport lounges can improve comfort and convenience during a long layover. Some credit cards or subscription services offer free lounge access, giving travelersAt a busy airport such as Shanghai Pudong, pay attention to other people as you leave the arrivals area. Follow the instructions provided, use escalators appropWinter, Shanghai
  20. German Husband's CULTURE SHOCKS in China!
    25 min
    2024-11
    German Husband's CULTURE SHOCKS in China!Shanghai Exploration: Culture Shock & Culinary DelightsBe prepared for limited access to common Western apps and payment methods in China. Download Alipay or WeChat Pay before your trip for convenient transactions.Explore the unique food offerings at McDonald's in Shanghai. You might find surprising items not available in Western locations.Autumn, Shanghai
  21. They WARNED Us NOT to Hike Up the Great Wall of CHINA (but we did)
    29 min
    2024-11
    They WARNED Us NOT to Hike Up the Great Wall of CHINA (but we did)Hiking the Great Wall of China: Beijing AdventureHe creates videos about China and other destinations.Oliver shares a link to a free document with 50 travel tips, including advice on booking cheap flights, travel insurance, and e-SIM cards.Autumn, Beijing
  22. German Husband's FIRST IMPRESSIONS of CHINA! (Shanghai Food & Culture)
    18 min
    2024-10
    German Husband's FIRST IMPRESSIONS of CHINA! (Shanghai Food & Culture)Shanghai Exploration: A German Traveler's First ImpressionsIn Germany, we always get twin beds so we can have two blankets, because trying to explain to other countries that we need two blankets never works.Expect quiet electric vehicle traffic in Shanghai, a stark contrast to many other major cities. It's a unique and surprisingly pleasant experience.Autumn, Shanghai
  23. Foreigners FIRST time in OLD China | Guangxi, China Travel Vlog 2024
    20 min
    2024-10
    Foreigners FIRST time in OLD China | Guangxi, China Travel Vlog 2024Old China Charm: Daxu & Guilin ExplorationIn Daxu, Pat and Giulia see houses with open doors. They connect this with the lack of air conditioning in some homes and say the view offers a glimpse of dailyPat and Giulia find that speaking Mandarin becomes more important as they travel farther into China. They say language helps them understand local life beyond aAutumn, Guilin / Guangxi
  24. This is Why We Love China
    35 min
    2024-10
    This is Why We Love ChinaHangzhou Exploration: Unveiling China's Surprising CityA local guide can show you parts of Hangzhou you might miss on your own and share local context. Two Mad Explorers used a guide while visiting West Lake and theTake time to notice Hangzhou’s architecture and historic details. The visit includes West Lake, Leifeng Pagoda, Chinsu Temple, and the Six Harmonies Pagoda, eacAutumn, Hangzhou / Zhejiang
  25. Our FIRST DAY In China People Warned Us Not To Visit China…
    33 min
    2024-09
    Our FIRST DAY In China People Warned Us Not To Visit China…Beijing First Impressions: Forbidden City & Hutong ExplorationThe source advises booking Forbidden City tickets directly through its website seven days before visiting, at 8 p.m. Beijing time. Jay and Karolina use this timAlipay is useful for payments during a China trip. Jay and Karolina use it for purchases, and describe the app as a wallet on the phone that also includes transAutumn, Beijing
  26. FIRST TIME In China China is NOT What We Expected…
    37 min
    2024-09
    FIRST TIME In China China is NOT What We Expected…First-Time Beijing: Airport, Subway, and Hot PotUse an eSIM from Holafly for unlimited data in China. It's easy to activate and offers convenience for staying connected.Download Alipay and WeChat for cashless payments. These apps are essential for transactions and accessing various services in China.Autumn, Beijing
  27. MY FIRST TIME IN CHINA! (I AM SHOCKED)
    9 min
    2024-07
    MY FIRST TIME IN CHINA! (I AM SHOCKED)Chengdu Exploration: First Impressions of ChinaDownload Alipay and connect your credit card before coming to China, as cash is rarely used.Be cautious when walking as scooters and bicycles often use the sidewalks.Summer, Chengdu / Sichuan
  28. FIRST TIME Visiting Macau in China Trying Typical Food | Climbing the Guia Fortress | Vlog
    22 min
    2024-07
    FIRST TIME Visiting Macau in China Trying Typical Food | Climbing the Guia Fortress | VlogMacau Exploration: Guia Fortress & Local FoodPlan travel time between the places you want to see in Macau, and leave enough room for ferry schedules if arriving or departing by ferry. Oliver planned four sMacau has both quiet streets and busier areas. Oliver finds the streets around his walk calmer than Hong Kong, giving him room to explore at a slower pace.Summer, Macau
  29. I'm SHOCKED By Macau Taking the Ferry From Hong Kong to Macau China
    16 min
    2024-07
    I'm SHOCKED By Macau Taking the Ferry From Hong Kong to Macau ChinaMacau Day Trip: Hong Kong Ferry & Cultural ExplorationCheck which bridge to use to reach the ferry terminal. Oliver says choosing the right bridge can help avoid delays when traveling from Hong Kong.Oliver's customs and boarding process took about 10 minutes because there were no lines. Leave enough time for the terminal steps while enjoying a quick journeySummer, Macau
  30. What's REALLY Happening in China RIGHT NOW?
    19 min
    2024-06
    What's REALLY Happening in China RIGHT NOW?Shenzhen Exploration: A First-Timer's Vibrant City WalkBefore coming to China, set up Alipay for easy mobile payments. It will save you time and potential frustration.Finding phone chargers and cables can be challenging, so consider bringing your own, or be prepared to search for local shops.Summer, Shenzhen / Guangdong
  31. I CANNOT Believe This Is CHINA First Impressions of Shenzhen
    21 min
    2024-06
    I CANNOT Believe This Is CHINA First Impressions of ShenzhenShenzhen Luxury: Manxin Hotel VlogOliver shares his 50 travel tips document, which includes advice on booking cheap flights, travel insurance, and more. He emphasizes that this free resource wilThe Manxin Hotel in Shenzhen offers free laundry facilities for its guests. This includes washing machines and dryers, along with detergent and other amenities,Summer, Shenzhen / Guangdong
  32. First Time in Taiwan Is This Actually CHINA?!
    27 min
    2024-05
    First Time in Taiwan Is This Actually CHINA?!Taipei Exploration: Hiking Elephant Mountain & Stunning City ViewsUse the EasyCard for convenient and fast travel throughout Taipei. It's easily purchased at the airport and allows for seamless travel on public transport.The Amba hotels offer a free shuttle bus service to many Taipei highlights, including the Taipei 101 area and the airport, making sightseeing easier.Spring, Taipei / Taiwan
There are 32 China travel vlogs/videos about First Time China. Get travel tips, rules and advice for "First Time China". China Travel Guide: First Time China