
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 Travel Guides
HONG KONG
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?
Lamma Island Day Trip From Hong Kong: 7 Top Things To Do
Hong Kong Disneyland: Is It Worth The Money In 2025?
Disneyland Hong Kong Vs. Ocean Park: Which Is Better?
How To Get From Hong Kong Airport To City Center: 4 Easy Ways
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
Mainland China Travel Guides
GENERAL CHINA TIPS (Start here!)
Preparing For China: 30 Essential Things To Know Before Your Trip
7 Must-Have Apps To Help You Survive In China (+ What eSIM To Get)
XI’AN, CHINA
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
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
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