China Travel Guides -

Wenshu Monastery - How To Spend 3 Days In Chengdu

CHINA BEYOND THE GUIDEBOOKS

DISCOVER CHINA WITH ME

As an ABC (American-born Chinese), it wasn’t until my 30s that I visited China (beyond Hong Kong), and the experience was transformative. I discovered so much about my own culture and realized just how different life in China is from the negative media portrayals. It’s a fascinating country with endless things to see and do.

Here are all my China travel itineraries to help you discover this wonderful country for yourself. Browse through all my guides or use the links below to jump to a specific section.

Hong Kong / Shenzhen
Mainland China

Hong Kong / Shenzhen Travel Guides

HONG KONG

A dynamic blend of East and West, Hong Kong dazzles with its skyline, shopping, and buzzing culture. Food is a big draw: you’ll find everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to freshly baked egg tarts to street-side egg waffles and curry fishballs.

With easy day trips to places like Lantau Island (for the Big Buddha) or Lamma Island for nature. The city moves fast, but its harbor views and neon-lit streets make it an unforgettable destination.

2 Days In Hong Kong Itinerary: What To See, Do, and Eat

3 Perfect Days In Hong Kong: What To See, Do, and Eat

Shopping In Hong Kong: 6 Best Neighborhoods For Retail Therapy

Go City Hong Kong vs. Klook Pass Hong Kong: Which Is Right For You?

Your Lantau Island Day Trip Itinerary: 6 Stops You Can’t Miss

Lamma Island Day Trip From Hong Kong: 7 Top Things To Do

Hong Kong Disneyland: Is It Worth The Money These Days?

Disneyland Hong Kong Vs. Ocean Park: Which Is Better?

How To Get From Hong Kong Airport To City Center: 4 Easy Ways

HK: WHERE TO STAY

Where To Stay In Hong Kong: 4 Best Areas For Travelers

SHENZHEN (GUANGDONG, CHINA)

Shenzhen pairs perfectly with a trip to Hong Kong, thanks to their close proximity. Locals from Hong Kong often hop over to Shenzhen for a weekend filled with incredible dim sum, world-class shopping, and ultimate relaxation. The seamless border connection makes exploring both cities a breeze!

3-Day Shenzhen Itinerary: Dim Sum, Culture, and Shopping

How To Spend 4 Fun Days In Shenzhen, China

Splendid China Folk Village Is Shenzhen’s Cultural Hidden Gem

Guangdong Romance Park: Where Cantonese History Comes to Life

SHENZHEN: WHERE TO STAY

Where To Stay In Shenzhen, China: 3 Top Areas For Travelers

Mainland China Travel Guides

GENERAL CHINA TIPS (Start here!)

Unlike many other destinations around the world, you can’t simply arrive and start enjoying your trip. There’s a learning curve when it comes to traveling in China. Here are a few guides to introduce you to Mainland China.

Preparing For China: 30 Essential Things To Know Before Your Trip

7 Big Mistakes I Made in China (And How You Can Avoid Them)

7 Must-Have Apps To Help You Survive In China (+ What eSIM To Get)

2 Weeks In China: Xi’an, Chengdu, Chongqing, Shenzhen, and HK – perfect for the colder seasons!

XI’AN, CHINA

Xi’an is a city where dynastic China meets everyday local life. Best known for the Terracotta Army, Xi’an is a must-visit for history lovers. From time to time, it’ll feel like Paris (in China). Walk or bike along its ancient city wall, explore the Muslim Quarter for lamb skewers and roujiamo, and take a day trip to Mount Hua if you’re up for a challenge.

How To Spend 3 Days In Xi’An (Beyond The Boring Guidebooks)

15 Things To Do In Xian, China (Other Than Historical Landmarks)

How To Visit Terracotta Warriors In Xi’An: Tips For First-Timers

Xi’an Silk Road: Legend of Camel Bell Show (Must-Do!)

CHENGDU, CHINA

Chengdu is the laid-back capital of spicy food and pandas. Visit the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, eat your way through spicy hot pot and mapo tofu, and enjoy tea at a traditional teahouse. It’s also the gateway to Leshan (home of the Giant Buddha) and Mount Emei for scenic hiking.

How To Spend 4 Days In Chengdu, China: Beyond Pandas + Temples!

15 Actually Fun Things To Do In Chengdu: Beyond Pandas And Temples

Shuyanfu Dinner Show: A Must-Do In Chengdu, China!

Chengdu’s Coolest Neighborhood: Eastern Suburb Memory

CHONGQING, CHINA

Built into hills and wrapped by rivers, Chongqing feels chaotic in the best way. Ride the monorail through apartment buildings, explore Hongyadong’s surreal architecture, and prepare for some of the spiciest food in China. The Yangtze River cruises and Wulong Karst National Geopark make excellent extensions to your visit.

15 Quintessential Things To Do In Chongqing, China

Where To Stay In Chongqing: 3 Central Areas For First-Timers

Shibati (18 Steps): A Walk Through Chongqing’s Past

An Afternoon In Ciqikou Ancient Town (Chongqing, China)