With the 2018 Chinese New Year holiday just around the corner, many people are starting to plan their short trips. If you’re looking for some ideas, here are 7 great options that are perfect for a quick getaway.
1. Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with something to offer everyone. From world-class shopping and dining to stunning natural scenery, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic metropolis.
During Chinese New Year, Hong Kong comes alive with festive decorations and celebrations. The city’s streets are lined with colorful lanterns, and there are plenty of traditional lion dances and parades to enjoy.
Things to do in Hong Kong:
- Visit the Temple Street Night Market
- Take a ride on the Star Ferry
- Hike to the top of Victoria Peak
- Go shopping in Causeway Bay
- Enjoy a traditional Chinese meal in Chinatown
2. Macau
Macau is a former Portuguese colony that is now a Special Administrative Region of China. It’s a unique blend of East and West, with a rich history and culture.
Macau is famous for its casinos, but there’s much more to this city than gambling. There are also plenty of historical and cultural attractions to explore, as well as some great shopping and dining.
Things to do in Macau:
- Visit the Ruins of St. Paul’s
- Take a ride on the缆车
- Explore the Senado Square
- Go shopping in the Venetian Macao
- Try your luck at a casino
3. Shenzhen
Shenzhen is a modern and rapidly growing city in southern China. It’s a major center for technology and innovation, and there are plenty of things to see and do in this vibrant city.
Shenzhen is also a great place to shop for electronics and other goods at bargain prices.
Things to do in Shenzhen:
- Visit the Shenzhen Museum
- Take a walk along the Shenzhen Bay Park
- Go shopping in the Huaqiangbei electronics market
- Enjoy a meal at one of Shenzhen’s many seafood restaurants
- Visit the Window of the World theme park
4. Guangzhou
Guangzhou is the capital of Guangdong Province and one of the most important cities in China. It’s a major center for commerce and trade, and there are plenty of things to see and do in this bustling metropolis.
Guangzhou is also a great place to experience traditional Chinese culture.
Things to do in Guangzhou:
- Visit the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall
- Take a boat ride on the Pearl River
- Go shopping in the Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street
- Enjoy a traditional Cantonese meal
- Visit the Guangzhou Opera House
5. Xi’an
Xi’an is an ancient city with a rich history and culture. It’s home to the Terracotta Army, one of the most famous archaeological discoveries in the world.
Xi’an is also a great place to experience traditional Chinese cuisine.
Things to do in Xi’an:
- Visit the Terracotta Army
- Take a walk on the ancient City Wall
- Go shopping in the Muslim Quarter
- Enjoy a traditional Shaanxi meal
- Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda
6. Chengdu
Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan Province and one of the most important cities in western China. It’s a major center for culture and the arts, and there are plenty of things to see and do in this vibrant city.
Chengdu is also famous for its giant pandas.
Things to do in Chengdu:
- Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
- Take a walk in the People’s Park
- Go shopping in the Chunxi Road Pedestrian Street
- Enjoy a traditional Sichuan meal
- Visit the Jinsha Site Museum
7. Kunming
Kunming is the capital of Yunnan Province and one of the most important cities in southwestern China. It’s a major center for trade and tourism, and there are plenty of things to see and do in this beautiful city.
Kunming is also a great place to experience the diverse cultures of Yunnan Province.
Things to do in Kunming:
- Visit the Stone Forest
- Take a boat ride on the Dianchi Lake
- Go shopping in the Nanping Street
- Enjoy a traditional Yunnan meal
- Visit the Yunnan Provincial Museum
Tips for Planning Your Trip
Here are a few tips to help you plan your short trip during Chinese New Year:
- Book your flights and accommodation in advance, as prices tend to go up closer to the holiday.
- Be prepared for crowds, as Chinese New Year is one of the busiest travel times of the year in China.
- Carry cash, as many businesses in China do not accept credit cards.
- Learn a few basic Chinese phrases, such as “你好” (hello) and “谢谢” (thank you).
- Be respectful of Chinese customs and traditions.
Conclusion
Chinese New Year is a great time to travel and experience the culture of China. With so many great destinations to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect place for your short trip.
Table 1: Number of Chinese Tourists During Chinese New Year
| Year | Number of Tourists |
|---|---|
| 2014 | 1.4 billion |
| 2015 | 1.6 billion |
| 2016 | 1.8 billion |
| 2017 | 2 billion |
Table 2: Top Destinations for Chinese Tourists During Chinese New Year
| Destination | Number of Tourists |
|---|---|
| Hong Kong | 5 million |
| Macau | 3 million |
| Shenzhen | 2 million |
| Guangzhou | 2 million |
| Xi’an | 1 million |
Table 3: Average Cost of a Short Trip to China During Chinese New Year
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Flights | $500-$1,000 |
| Accommodation | $100-$200 per night |
| Food and drinks | $30-$50 per day |
| Activities | $50-$100 per day |
| Total | $1,000-$2,000 |
Table 4: Tips for Saving Money on Your Trip
- Travel during the off-season (February-March).
- Book your flights and accommodation in advance.
- Stay in hostels or guesthouses.
- Eat at local restaurants.
- Take advantage of free activities, such as walking tours and visiting temples.
