· James and Keli
MUST Visit Places in China in 2024/2025 (Add these to your CHINA BUCKET LIST!)
China Travel Guide: Must-Visit Cities & Landscapes
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James And Keli
James And Keli China travel videos: explore real journeys, destination experiences and practical advice from travelers.
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11 min2024-05MUST Visit Places in China in 2024/2025 (Add these to your CHINA BUCKET LIST!)China Travel Guide: Must-Visit Cities & LandscapesWhen visiting the Terracotta Warriors, consider doing prior research, as English translations may be limited in some areas. This will help you understand the hiFor historical and cultural sites, prior research is recommended due to potential language barriers. Understanding the context enhances the experience.Spring, Huangshan / Anhui
17 min2023-1010 Travel Tips for Traveling in China in 2023/2024 (That will actually help you)China Travel Tips: Mastering Trains & Avoiding CrowdsDownload a VPN like Astral or ExpressVPN to access blocked social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram.Download WeChat and Alipay for communication and payments. Alipay accepts international bank cards.Autumn, various
13 min2023-03Walk through Shanghai's French Concessions with us | Shanghai, ChinaShanghai French Concession Walking Tour: History & ArchitectureTake a self-guided audio walking tour through Shanghai's French Concession, starting at Jiaotong University and visiting Ferguson Lake. The flexible route lets Use an audio guide with GPS tracking to navigate the French Concession. It connects the route with stories about the surrounding architecture, making it easier Spring, Shanghai
12 min2023-02The Worlds Largest Buddha - The Leshan Giant Buddha | Chengdu, ChinaLeshan Giant Buddha: Exploring Chengdu's Ancient WondersConsider visiting the Leshan Giant Buddha on a weekday or outside national holidays if you want to avoid the busiest periods. James and Keli found manageable crAfter seeing the main statue, leave time to explore the surrounding area. James and Keli found a pavilion and cliffside grottos while walking around the Leshan Winter, ChengduLeshan / Sichuan
14 min2023-01Seeing pandas for the FIRST TIME in Chengdu, ChinaChengdu Pandas: Unforgettable Giant Panda EncounterConsider using the park's bus system to navigate efficiently, especially if you are short on time or prefer not to walk long distances. The park is quite large,Plan your visit between 7:30 am and 10:00 am for optimal panda viewing. This is when the pandas are most active due to feeding time, and there are typically fewWinter, Chengdu / Sichuan
10 min2022-04Our Scariest Hike EVER on the Tiger Leaping Gorge 虎跳峡 | Yunnan, ChinaTiger Leaping Gorge Hike: Yunnan, China AdventureStart the hike with a filling breakfast. The suggested meal is rice porridge with spices, corn and egg, which gives you something to eat before the climb througAllow about two and a half hours to reach the halfway point, though the time depends on your walking pace. Leave room for breaks as the trail changes from flattSpring, Yunnan
15 min2022-03The Best Hike in China! Tiger Leaping Gorge 虎跳峡 | Yunnan, ChinaTiger Leaping Gorge Hike: Yunnan, China AdventurePlan your transportation in advance, especially if traveling during peak season. Missing the first bus added unexpected stress to the trip. Consider booking ticConsider hiring a porter or using a donkey to carry your luggage, especially if you're not used to hiking with heavy backpacks. This will make the hike much morSpring, Yunnan
15 min2022-03Jade Dragon Snow Mountain 玉龙雪山 | Lijiang, ChinaJade Dragon Snow Mountain: Lijiang Cable Car & Blue Moon ValleyExplore Lijiang Old Town, an appealing area with plenty of character for wandering through its streets. James and Keli also try a local eatery there, and visitoIf you plan to visit Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, prepare for changing weather. Pack layers, warm outerwear and sturdy footwear suitable for hiking so you can adjSpring, Lijiang / Yunnan
14 min2021-09Laozhai Mountain and Nine Horses | Xingping, Guilin, ChinaLaozhai Mountain & Nine Horses: Exploring Xingping, ChinaRenting an e-bike is a fun and efficient way to explore Xingping's scenic locations, including the 20 RMB viewpoint and Nine Horses mural. Be ready for unexpectDo not be afraid to get a little lost. Some of James and Keli's discoveries happen as they let go of a strict itinerary and explore. A map can help when needed,Autumn, XingpingGuilinYangshuo / Guangxi
8 min2021-08We didn't expect to bike over 65km in Yangshuo | Biking through Yangshuo, ChinaYangshuo Countryside Biking Adventure: 65km Cycling JourneyA guided bike tour can take you beyond the main tourist routes around Yangshuo. Bike Asia is one option mentioned in the source.Start early to avoid some of the midday heat. James and Keli’s tour began at 8:30 AM and continued for about seven hours.Summer, Yangshuo / Guangxi
14 min2021-08Why you should go to Yangshuo! | Biking and bamboo raft | Guangxi, ChinaYangshuo Travel Guide: Biking, Bamboo Rafting & HikingFor a summer visit to Yangshuo, pack water and a towel, particularly if hiking Moon Hill. James and Keli describe the heat during their August visit as intense.The summer heat made biking difficult for James and Keli. They suggest considering an e-bike instead, since it can be easy to overheat while cycling in the sun.Summer, YangshuoGuilin / Guangxi
15 min2021-08The INCREDIBLE Longsheng (Longji) Rice Terraces | A Day Trip From Guilin, ChinaLongsheng Rice Terraces: A Guilin Day TripTake the public bus from Guilin's main bus station to Longji Rice Terraces for a cheaper option than a private car or tour bus. Buses depart every 30 minutes.Many homestays near the terraces work on a first-come, first-served basis. James and Keli walk around and ask about room availability.Summer, Guilin / Guangxi
11 min2021-07Drinking Tsingtao and Eating Seafood in Qingdao, ChinaQingdao Exploration: Seafood, Tsingtao Beer & Coastal CharmExplore Qingdao’s beaches and coastal scenery on foot. James and Keli enjoy the sea air and see cleaning crews removing green algae from the shoreline during thSt. Michael’s Cathedral is a German architectural landmark in Qingdao. Take time to look at its details and surrounding buildings, and note that the area is alsSummer, Qingdao / Shandong
9 min2021-07We walked to the end of the Great Wall... between China and North Korea | Dandong, ChinaDandong Great Wall: China's Easternmost FrontierVisit the China Aids Korea War Museum in Dandong for a unique perspective on the Korean War. It's free to enter, but be aware that the narrative is strongly proHike the easternmost part of the Great Wall in Dandong, China. It offers scenic views and a unique historical experience. The entrance fee is 65 RMB per person.Summer, Dandong / Liaoning
11 min2021-07The North Korean Broken Bridge - Dandong, ChinaDandong, China: North Korean Border & Broken BridgeExplore local restaurants in Dandong by looking for places with high recommendations online or through local suggestions. Don't be afraid to try something new aTry Dandong's Korean cold noodles for a distinctive local meal. You can experiment with different toppings and sauces to find the combination you enjoy.Summer, Dandong / Liaoning
12 min2021-07We went to the battlefield of the Russo-Japanese War | Lvshun, ChinaLushun's Russo-Japanese War Battlefield: A China History JourneyTry local food in Lushun and Dalian, and use online resources to identify well-rated restaurants if you want guidance while exploring.Fisherman's Wharf offers a waterfront area with architecture modeled on the American East Coast. The source notes that it can be quiet outside peak season.Summer, LvshunDalian / Liaoning
14 min2021-06Tianmen Mountain | A Day in the Clouds | Zhangjiajie, ChinaTianmen Mountain, Zhangjiajie: A Day Above the CloudsPurchase tickets in advance to save time and potentially money. The ticket includes the cable car, escalator, and bus rides, making it a convenient option.Consider the weather conditions when planning your visit. While fog can add to the atmosphere, it may also obstruct views. Check forecasts before you go.Summer, Zhangjiajie / Hunan
10 min2021-06We tried *traditional* Chinese Zongzi | Dragon Boat FestivalDragon Boat Festival in China: A Zongzi Culinary JourneyConsider staying in one place during holidays to experience local culture and food deeply, rather than rushing through travel.If you work in China, you might receive gift boxes with local snacks during festivals – a great opportunity to explore local cuisine.Summer, Suzhou / Jiangsu
14 min2021-06Zhangjiajie Mountains / The Avatar Mountains / A UNESCO World Heritage SiteZhangjiajie's Avatar Mountains: Hiking & UNESCO HeritageTo reach Huangshi Village, James And Keli used a combination of buses and a cable car, showcasing a common mode of transportation in the area. This highlights tThe kindness of a local lady who guided them to the cable car and helped them buy tickets demonstrates the welcoming nature of the locals and the potential for Summer, Zhangjiajie / Hunan
10 min2021-06Hiking the Avatar Mountains / Zhangjiajie, China / This NEEDS to be on your China Bucket List!Zhangjiajie Hiking: Avatar Mountains China AdventureA mini-inn near the park entrance can be a cozy and convenient base for exploring Zhangjiajie. James and Keli stay near Yangjiajie and find the small room has tStart with breakfast at one of the restaurants near the park entrance. James and Keli find local food nearby before beginning their day on the trail.Summer, Zhangjiajie / Hunan
12 min2021-05Beautiful Spring Cherry Blossoms - Wuxi, ChinaWuxi Cherry Blossoms: Springtime in ChinaIn Wuxi, try the unique all-you-can-eat restaurants near the park entrances. They offer a variety of dishes and provide a fun, local dining experience. Be prepaLearn some basic Chinese dining etiquette. At fancier restaurants, you'll often be given two pairs of chopsticks; one for serving yourself and one for eating.Spring, Wuxi / Jiangsu
13 min2021-05Famous Tulou Villages - Home to Hakka People (and Mulan) - UNESCO World Heritage SiteFujian Tulou Villages: Hakka Homes & UNESCO HeritageXiamen is located in Fujian province, which is renowned for its unique Tulou villages. These villages are special because they're built in these circular structThe Hakka people, who built these tulous, migrated here from the north almost 600 years ago. They built these structures for defense against the local mountain Spring, Yongding / Fujian
11 min2021-05We Stayed in a 140 Year Old Chinese Home - Fujian Tulou HomestayFujian Tulou Homestay: Exploring a 140-Year-Old Chinese HomeA private driver can make transportation easier when visiting several rural sites. Stephen arranges rides for James and Keli from the airport and between TulousTalk with local people about their history and traditions. Staying at a homestay gives James and Keli a chance to share meals, learn about the family and experiSpring, Xiamen / Fujian
6 min2021-04Fragrant Hills Park - Beijing, ChinaFragrant Hills Park Autumn Colors: Beijing Day TripUtilize Beijing's extensive subway system for efficient travel between destinations. Plan your route carefully, as some lines may require longer travel times duConsider the cable car option for scenic views, but be aware of the cost. It's a unique experience, being China's first cable car, but walking is a free alternaSpring, Beijing
12 min2021-04Forbidden City and the Hutongs - Beijing, ChinaBeijing Hutongs & Temple of Heaven: A China ExplorationAlways carry your ID in Beijing, as ID checkpoints are frequent and thorough, even on the street.Book Forbidden City tickets well in advance, especially during peak season; tickets sell out quickly.Spring, Beijing
8 min2021-04Temple of Heaven and Delicious BBQ - Beijing, ChinaBeijing Temple of Heaven: Architecture & BBQVisit the Temple of Heaven to see an important historic and architectural site and learn about its role in Chinese culture. and its history.The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest is a large round wooden building and a notable architectural achievement in China.Spring, Beijing
9 min2021-03Final Day on the Silk Road - Shazhou Night Market - Dunhuang, ChinaDunhuang Night Market: A Silk Road Culinary AdventureTry the unique yellow noodles in Dunhuang, served with donkey meat in a flavorful brown sauce. It's a local specialty you won't find anywhere else.Sample apricot tea, a famous drink in Dunhuang. It's refreshing and makes a great morning beverage.Spring, Dunhuang / Gansu
12 min2021-03Mogao Grottoes and the Singing Sand Dunes - Dunhuang, ChinaMogao Grottoes & Singing Sand Dunes: Dunhuang, ChinaTo visit the Mogao Grottoes, you must purchase tickets in advance through your hotel or a designated address. Tickets cost approximately 240 kuai and include a Before entering the Mogao Grottoes, visit the tourist center to watch an introductory movie. English translations are available via headsets.Spring, Dunhuang / Gansu
5 min2021-03Great Wall of China - Jiayuguan, ChinaJiayuguan Great Wall: Silk Road ExplorationPurchasing tickets to the Jiayuguan fortress is relatively easy, though you'll need your passport at the entrance. The ticket price includes access to the main If you're visiting in October, bring a jacket as it can be chilly. Plan accordingly for the weather conditions.Spring, Jiayuguan / Gansu
11 min2021-03The Rainbow Mountains and MatiSi - Zhangye, ChinaZhangye Danxia: Rainbow Mountains & MatiSi One-Day TripThe bus is included with your ticket and is the only way to travel between scenic points within the Danxia area. Walking outside designated areas is not permittConsider a hot air balloon ride for a unique perspective of the Danxia Mountains. Helicopter rides are also available, but significantly more expensive.Spring, Zhangye / Gansu
8 min2021-02Highlights of Xining - Chaka Salt Lake & Qinghai LakeXining Day Trip: Chaka & Qinghai LakesA private driver can make a multi-stop day trip more flexible, especially when Chaka Salt Lake and Qinghai Lake are far apart. James and Keli travel between theAsk about entrance fees before visiting scenic places and confirm what the tour price includes. James and Keli encounter an unexpected payment dispute, so checkWinter, Xining / Qinghai
10 min2021-01Second Day in Huangshan黄山 - China's Most Incredible MountainHuangshan Hiking Adventure: Sunrise Views & Scenic DescentBe prepared for cold weather, even if the sun is out. Dress warmly and bring extra layers to stay comfortable during your hike.Take advantage of scenic viewpoints for rest and snacks. Pack light, easy-to-eat food and plenty of water to keep your energy levels up.Winter, Huangshan / Anhui
13 min2021-01Yellow Mountains - The Loveliest Mountain in China - Huangshan, AnhuiHuangshan: Exploring the Yellow Mountains, Anhui, ChinaTo reach the transportation hub from the Huangshan train station, take an immediate right and walk down. Avoid local city buses and opt for the transportation hBring snacks and water for the mountaintop as prices at the hotel are high. It's advisable to buy them before heading up.Winter, Huangshan / Anhui
10 min2021-01The Best Views in Xiahe - Day Seven on the Silk RoadXiahe, Gansu: Breathtaking Silk Road ViewsYou can reach Sangka grasslands by renting a bicycle from Snowy Mountain Cafe or taking a taxi, which cost James and Keli 30 kuai.On the wooden bridge at Sangka Grasslands, keep walking beyond the crowded entrance; the path becomes less busy farther along.Winter, Xiahe / Gansu
10 min2020-12Exploring the Labarang Monastary - Day Six on the Silk RoadLabrang Monastery: A Tibetan Buddhist Journey in Xiahe, GansuDue to Covid-19, the Labrang Monastery was closed to the public, so we walked around the outside.Spinning prayer wheels is a common practice in Tibetan Buddhism, each rotation is believed to have the same effect as reciting a prayer.Winter, Lhasa / Tibet
8 min2020-12First Long Distance Bus in China - Day Five on the Silk RoadLanzhou to Xiahe Bus Ride: Exploring Gansu's Silk RoadPlanning a long-distance bus trip in China requires purchasing tickets in person; online booking isn't always available. Allow ample time to buy your tickets anBus tickets from Lanzhou to Xiahe cost approximately 150 kuai. Prices may vary depending on the season and demand.Winter, Lhasa / Tibet
10 min2020-12Maijishan Grottoes - Tianshui, ChinaMaijishan Grottoes: A Silk Road Cliffside Journey in Tianshui, ChinaVisit the Muslim street market in Xi’an to try local foods and learn about the area’s history and culture. James and Keli begin their Silk Road journey there beTo reach Maijishan from Tianshui train station, walk left until you find the stop for bus 34, called sanshisi in Chinese. The bus is a convenient and affordableWinter, TianshuiXiAn / Gansu
8 min2020-11Xi'An, China - Day Two on the Silk RoadXi'An Silk Road: Drum Tower, Bell Tower & Great MosqueJames And Keli start with pulled noodles for lunch, describing them as an enjoyable local meal. Trying a noodle dish gives visitors a chance to experience Xi'AnThe Drum and Bell Towers sit conveniently next to the Muslim Quarter, making it possible to visit historic sites and then explore the area's food and shops. PlaAutumn, XiAn / Shaanxi
8 min2020-07Picking Loquat in Dongshan, ChinaDongshan Loquat Picking: A Taihu Lake Day TripStart your day with a hike offering impressive views of Taihu Lake. The scenery is dramatic, especially from the top of the mountain where a Buddhist temple resVisit one of the 72 peaks overlooking Taihu Lake, the second tallest mountain in the area. Enjoy the beautiful view from the top.Summer, Suzhou / Jiangsu
7 min2020-06Xishan Island - Suzhou, ChinaXishan Island: Exploring Suzhou's Taihu LakeThe trip from Suzhou to Xishan Island takes about two hours by metro and Didi. Plan transportation ahead to make the journey smoother.Linwu Caves, also called the Dragon Cave, have unusual rock formations and a history as a sacred Taoist site. The source recommends exploring the formations andSummer, Suzhou / Jiangsu
4 min2020-04Humble Administrator's Garden - Suzhou, ChinaHumble Administrator's Garden: A Suzhou, China JewelWhen you come to the park try to go early in the morning that way it's cool and you can bring a picnic so you can sit and relax it's a beautiful spot to just kiIf there's pictures we find the picture that looks the best and the one that we are eating hand I think we got this one but we could have gotten another one theSpring, Suzhou / Jiangsu
15 min2020-04Two Months of Quarantine - Foreigners Share What it Was Like During Covid-19Suzhou Covid-19 Quarantine: Foreigners' ExperiencesStay home as much as possible to reduce exposure. If you must go out, wear a mask and keep distance from others; focus on hobbies or learning to stay productiveTry to find enjoyment in time at home by starting a hobby or continuing a familiar one. A steady routine can help during isolation and changing restrictions.Spring, Suzhou / Jiangsu
9 min2020-02Snow and Ice Festival - Harbin, ChinaHarbin Sun Island Snow World: A Breathtaking Winter JourneyHave coffee before setting out to Harbin's winter attractions; it can give you some energy before a day of walking and sightseeing.A cable car ride offers views over Harbin and the Songhua River, giving you a different perspective on the city's winter landscape.Winter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
10 min2020-02Snow and Ice World - Harbin, ChinaHarbin Ice and Snow Festival: A Magical Winter JourneyA local breakfast gives visitors energy for exploring Harbin. Trying regional dishes is one way to experience the city’s food culture.Central Street is a pedestrian area in Harbin with shops and, during the festival, ice sculptures. It is a place to take in the winter atmosphere.Winter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
4 min2020-01A Day Tour of Changshu, ChinaChangshu Day Tour: Golden Scissors, Yushan Mountain & Guili TownVisit the Golden Scissors factory to witness the intricate process of hand-making bespoke dresses and suits. It is a chance to see traditional craftsmanship in Explore a local scholar's house to learn about Changshu's history and architecture. These houses offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives and work of past schWinter, Changshu / Jiangsu
10 min2019-12A Primitive Village in ChinaGongyu Village: Hiking Adventure in Rural ChinaPrepare for the challenging hike to Gongyu Village. The walk takes about two hours and requires fitness, so bring plenty of water and snacks.Talk with local residents respectfully. James and Keli describe them as welcoming, and basic Mandarin phrases can help make conversations easier. The couple enjWinter, Shanghai
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