{"id":45999,"date":"2023-01-02T05:41:33","date_gmt":"2023-01-01T21:41:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/?p=45999"},"modified":"2026-04-22T11:36:40","modified_gmt":"2026-04-22T03:36:40","slug":"chinas-reopening-for-travel","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/blog\/chinas-reopening-for-travel\/","title":{"rendered":"China’s Reopening For Travel: Hot Spots To Visit"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The wait is finally over! With China reopening its borders and easing restrictions on 8 Jan 2023, we\u2019ve compiled an exciting list of hot spots to visit in the Middle Kingdom if you just can\u2019t make up your mind on where to start. <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Have you heard? China is reopening for travel and scrapping its quarantines for arrivals from 8 January 2023 onwards! However, even with the loosening of Covid\u201919 restrictions, mandatory testing, and lockdowns, do take note that you will<\/em> still have to take a PCR test 48 hours before your flight to China. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

We can\u2019t wait to head back to the Middle Kingdom for authentic Xiao Long Baos, numbingly spicy Si Chuan cuisine, and cuddly giant panda bears. There\u2019s just so much to see in this colourful land so full of culture. So read on for a breakdown of some of China\u2019s hot spots to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\ud83d\udc9c\u00a0Stay Up To Date:<\/strong>
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1. Shanghai<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Ancient culture. Idyllic gardens. Enchanting water towns. All encapsulated in one modern city (the World\u2019s largest city at that). This thriving city that never sleeps is full of bustling crowds and high fashion, making it a world finance and cultural centre. But if you ask me, having lived in Shanghai for three years, there\u2019s only one thing that comes back to mind when thinking of the Pearl of the Orient and that\u2019s\u2026drum roll, please<\/em>\u2026 Xiao Long Bao. These flavourful soup dumplings envelop a seasoned pork filling with hot savoury soup that bursts in your mouth and is paired with Chinese black vinegar and thin ginger slices for the ultimate balanced bite. And if you think the ones at Din Tai Fung are good? Just try the ones in Shanghai at Jia Jia Tang Bao<\/a>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hot spots include a visit to The Bund<\/a> to get the best view of the city and of Lujiazui \u2014 one of Shanghai\u2019s majestic modern skyscrapers. Take a walk along the Huangpu River embankment and soak in all the good architectural beauty. A definite treat for the eyes. Or take a trip down to the World\u2019s third tallest building \u2014 the iconic Oriental Pearl TV Tower<\/a> which stands at 468 meters tall! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Down for some exciting family fun? Shanghai Disney Resort<\/a> will certainly do the trick with its wide variety of attractions to explore in Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, and even Adventure Isles. A dream for both adults and children alike. And if you\u2019re an avid Starbucks fan, trust us when we say the Shanghai Roastery<\/a> needs to be on your list. The first Starbucks in the World to offer an augmented reality experience to customers, it\u2019s said to give theatrical Alice in Wonderland meets Willy Wonka vibes. Trippy<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tip:<\/strong> Suzhou and Hangzhou are just an hour away via Shanghai\u2019s high-speed rail<\/a>, making it convenient if you\u2019re planning on visiting more than one city! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

USP: <\/strong>For those who enjoy a blend of bustling modern metropolis and rich ancient Chinese culture  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

China’s Reopening For Travel<\/em>: Hot Spots To Visit \u2014 Stay tuned to our Shanghai Guide! <\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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2. Beijing<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The most popular tourist destination in China, Beijing is renowned for its opulent palaces, temples, parks, tombs, and most of all, The Great Wall of China<\/a>. This 21196.18km wall took over 2,000 years to build and has 15 strategic passages which snake across China from East to West, making it the largest man-made project in the world. The Great Wall is composed of four main sections: Head to Badaling<\/a> for the more famous and accessible route; Mutianyu<\/a> for the well-restored but less crowded route; Simatai<\/a> for a view of the crumbling and rugged side of the wall; and Jinshanling<\/a> for serious photographers and those who favour a good hike.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Must-visits also include the Forbidden City<\/a>, China\u2019s Imperial Palace that stretches back to the 13th century Yuan Dynasty to live out your C-Drama dreams. A tour of the world\u2019s largest inner-city square \u2014 Tiananmen Square<\/a>, a.k.a the Square of Heavenly Peace which marks the centre of communist China. And not forgetting Beijing National Stadium<\/a> where the famed Summer Olympics were held in 2008, and the National Aquatics Center<\/a> that\u2019s situated right beside it with its delightful magical Watercube Waterpark<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

USP: <\/strong>For history and culture buffs who love good scenery <\/p>\n\n\n\n

China’s Reopening For Travel<\/em>: Hot Spots To Visit \u2014 Find out more about Beijing here<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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3. Chengdu<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Widely known for being home to China\u2019s magnificent giant pandas, there are not one but four panda bases. For good ol\u2019 panda viewing, head to Chengdu Panda Base <\/a>which is located near the city. And for a more hands-on experience, head to Dujiangyan<\/a>, Wolong<\/a>, or Bifengxiacan<\/a>! You\u2019ll get to experience Chengdu\u2019s giant panda volunteer programs where participants will learn about giant pandas and work with experts in taking care of these cuddly creatures. You\u2019ll even receive a panda volunteer certificate at the end of the day!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A city famed for its leisure and entertainment, People\u2019s Park<\/a> is the place to leave your worries behind. Think dancing, loud music, caricature drawings, mahjong, small boats on lakes, tea houses, and fortune tellers. Ahh<\/em>, life\u2019s a breeze. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Explore Jinli Street<\/a> and Kuan Zhai Alley<\/a> for a taste of Chengdu food culture and the best street food. The city is famous for its spicy Hot Pots, Mapo Tofu, and Dan Dan Mian that\u2019ll leave your mouth numb and tingling with its beloved Sichuan peppercorns and chilli oil. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

USP:<\/strong> For those who with a soft spot for cuddly giant pandas and need a break from the hustle and bustle <\/p>\n\n\n\n

China’s Reopening For Travel<\/em>: Hot Spots To Visit \u2014 For more things to do in Chengdu click here<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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4. Guilin <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Image credits: China Discovery<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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So far, this guide has been all about cities so how about a taste of the countryside? This is your sign to head to Guilin! Translating to the Forest of Sweet Osmanthus, Guilin bares no limits when it comes to its share of natural beauty. This is a land of lavish rice terraces, unrivalled karst landscapes, flowing rivers, surreal caves, and peace galore. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit Ludiyan a.k.a Reed Flute Cave<\/a> to marvel at the city\u2019s largest and most spectacular multicoloured cavern. This geological wonder features a myriad of stalactites and stalagmites that are not only named based on appearance but by the legends that surround them such as Crystal Palace and Dragon Pagoda. What\u2019s more, one massive stalactite is said to have been the magical spear of the Dragon King that was used by the great Monkey King, Song Wu Kong, in Journey To The West<\/em>, giving this cave its ethereal and otherworldly aura. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If climbing\u2019s your thing, try your hand at hiking up karst hills such as Xianggong Hill<\/a> that\u2019s located just outside of Guilin and Elephant Trunk Hill<\/a> where you\u2019ll be rewarded with the most breathtaking views. You can even take a cruise or kayak on the Li River<\/a> \u2014 no doubt the biggest highlight of the city. Or tour the Longji Terraced Fields<\/a> and experience minority village culture on exhilarating ATVs. There\u2019s so much to do right here in this humble countryside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

USP: <\/strong>For those who desire a taste of the countryside<\/p>\n\n\n\n

China’s Reopening For Travel<\/em>: Hot Spots To Visit \u2014 For more things to do in Guilin click here<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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5.<\/strong> Huangshan<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Named after its most prominent attraction, Huangshan Mountain,<\/a> Huangshan literally translates to Yellow Mountain. A crowd favourite, these mountains are steeped in picturesque natural landscapes and rich history. Expect to see oddly shaped pines, rocks, hot springs, and a cloudy mist (Sea of Clouds) so thick it creates an enchanting imagery of a mountain island floating on clouds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other hot spots in Huangshan include exploring the ancient Xidi<\/a> and Hongcun villages<\/a> for their charming rural architecture and a taste of history and culture. Fun fact: If you\u2019re a fan of the Kung Fu movies, Crouching Tiger<\/em> and Hidden Dragon, <\/em>you just might be excited to find that they were filmed right here at Hongcun Village! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On your way out, don\u2019t forget to give Huangshan\u2019s most famous tea \u2014 Maofeng Tea, a try. Light with a floral aroma, this green tea has a sweet profile that tastes just like apricots and peaches. Delicate and just like summer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

USP: <\/strong>For a view of its magnificent Yellow Mountains <\/p>\n\n\n\n

China’s Reopening For Travel<\/em>: Hot Spots To Visit \u2014 For more things to do in Huangshan click here<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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6. Xi’an<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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A contemporary city, many flock to Xi\u2019an for its plethora of historical monuments, ancient ruins, and tombs. One of its biggest attractions? The Qin Tomb<\/a>, also known as the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor who began construction of the Great Wall of China \u2014 Shihuangdi. This secret 50-square-km funerary compound was only unearthed 2,100 years after the emperor\u2019s death. What they didn\u2019t expect to find was an army of around 8,000 life-sized detailed terracotta soldiers along with horses and richly adorned chariots of now disintegrated wood. Other treasures discovered include weapons which retained their sharpness and shine, objects made of silk, jade, linen, and bone, and more. Curiouser and curiouser\u2026<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What else can you do in Xi\u2019an? Cycle on Xi\u2019an\u2019s ancient City Wall<\/a> and enjoy the night view. Experience the days of Imperial China through traditional song and dance with the Tang Dynasty Show<\/a> while indulging in a dumping banquet. Visit Hukou Waterfall<\/a>, the world\u2019s only yellow waterfall in the world, and go rafting! For a taste of local cuisine, have a taste of some local favourites including Yellow River carp and Yan\u2019an wine. Expect huge rapids and splashes when at the Yellow River Basin. You\u2019ve been warned! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

USP: <\/strong>For a view of its symbolic Terracotta Warriors <\/p>\n\n\n\n

China’s Reopening For Travel: Hot Spots To Visit \u2014 For more things to do in Xi’an click here<\/a><\/strong><\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Pack Your Bags, It’s Time To Explore The Middle Kingdom!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Now that you\u2019ve got a list of sights to explore in China locked and loaded, you\u2019re ready for your next adventure! Amidst the excitement of China being reopened, don\u2019t forget to book your flight tickets and accommodations with your YouTrip card via YouTrip Perks<\/a> for extra cashback and discounts!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Singapore\u2019s favourite multi-currency wallet, we aim to get those pesky fees out of the way and help you save on your travels. With the best foreign exchange rates, no longer will you have to deal with those long queues at money changers! So if you’re looking for a go-to travel card, sign up for your complimentary YouTrip card today with <YTBLOG5><\/strong> and get FREE S$5<\/strong> in your account! For more great tips and articles like this, join our Telegram(@YouTripSG)<\/a> and subscribe to our free weekly newsletter here<\/a> or down below. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

And while you’re at it, why not join the conversation with thousands of #YouTroopers in our very own Community Telegram Group @YouTripSquad<\/a>? Get tips and tricks to everything YouTrip including exclusive invites to exciting events and experiences, & be part of the #YouTripSquad! \ud83d\udc9c<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stay safe and happy travelling! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Did someone say Xiao Long Bao? <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":75,"featured_media":46010,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[8119,623,624],"tags":[39582,39581,39583,39129,39132],"class_list":["post-45999","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-guides-tips","category-lifestyle","category-travel","tag-china","tag-china-hot-spots","tag-china-reopened","tag-travel","tag-trending"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/45999","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/75"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=45999"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/45999\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":85547,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/45999\/revisions\/85547"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/46010"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=45999"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=45999"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=45999"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}