Where to Go in China in December
As the year wraps up, don’t miss the opportunity to embark on an unforgettable adventure in the captivating land of China. With its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and bustling cities, China offers a diverse range of destinations perfect for a December getaway.
1. Beijing
- Highlights: Forbidden City, Great Wall, Temple of Heaven
- Why Visit: Witness the grandeur of imperial China and immerse yourself in its rich history.
2. Shanghai
- Highlights: The Bund, Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Museum
- Why Visit: Explore the vibrant metropolis, towering skyscrapers, and iconic waterfront views.
3. Xi’an
- Highlights: Terracotta Warriors, Muslim Quarter, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
- Why Visit: Discover the ancient wonders of the Tang Dynasty and indulge in the bustling city’s culture.
4. Guilin
- Highlights: Li River Cruise, Yangshuo, Elephant Trunk Hill
- Why Visit: Escape to breathtaking karst mountains, tranquil waterways, and picturesque villages.
5. Hangzhou
- Highlights: West Lake, Leifeng Pagoda, Lingyin Temple
- Why Visit: Stroll through serene gardens, admire historical landmarks, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the city.
6. Chengdu
- Highlights: Giant Pandas, Jinsha Site Museum, Sichuan Cuisine
- Why Visit: Encounter the adorable giant pandas and savor the spicy delights of Sichuan cuisine.
7. Suzhou
- Highlights: Classical Gardens, Grand Canal, Humble Administrator’s Garden
- Why Visit: Admire the exquisite artistry of Chinese gardens and explore the ancient canals.
8. Zhangjiajie
- Highlights: Tianmen Mountain, Avatar Hallelujah Mountains, Grand Canyon Glass Bridge
- Why Visit: Marvel at the towering sandstone pillars, lush forests, and breathtaking cliffside views.
9. Yunnan Province
- Highlights: Stone Forest, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Lijiang Ancient Town
- Why Visit: Experience the stunning natural wonders, unique ethnic cultures, and ancient villages.
10. Hong Kong
- Highlights: Victoria Harbour, The Peak, Disneyland Hong Kong
- Why Visit: Explore the vibrant fusion of Chinese and Western cultures, enjoy world-class shopping, and visit the iconic theme park.
Tips and Tricks
- Weather: December in China can be cold in the north, mild in the south, and snowy in the mountainous areas.
- Accommodation: Book your accommodation in advance, especially in popular destinations.
- Transportation: Utilize China’s extensive high-speed rail network to travel efficiently between cities.
- Culture: Learn basic Chinese phrases and be respectful of local customs.
- Food: Enjoy the diverse culinary delights of China, from spicy Sichuan dishes to Cantonese dim sum.
Tables
Average Temperature in December
| City | Average Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|
| Beijing | -2 to 2 |
| Shanghai | 2 to 9 |
| Xi’an | 0 to 5 |
| Guilin | 8 to 15 |
| Hangzhou | 4 to 10 |
Visa Requirements
| Nationality | Visa Required |
|---|---|
| US | 10-year multiple-entry visa |
| UK | 6-month single-entry visa |
| Canada | Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) |
| Australia | 6-month tourist visa |
| India | 30-day visa-on-arrival |
Top Tourist Attractions in China
| Attraction | Location |
|---|---|
| Forbidden City | Beijing |
| Great Wall of China | Beijing |
| Terracotta Warriors | Xi’an |
| Li River Cruise | Guilin |
| West Lake | Hangzhou |
| Giant Pandas | Chengdu |
| Classical Gardens | Suzhou |
| Tianmen Mountain | Zhangjiajie |
| Stone Forest | Yunnan |
| Victoria Harbour | Hong Kong |
Cost of Travel
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $30-$100 per night |
| Transportation | $20-$50 per day |
| Food | $5-$20 per meal |
| Activities | $10-$50 per activity |
| Visa | $10-$50 |
