Authentic Travel Diaries & Private Tours,Discover the Real China with Local Experts and Genuine Stories

This article serves as a comprehensive travel guide for international visitors planning to explore the Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum in Xi'an, China, home to the world-famous army of terracotta warriors. As China’s largest ancient military museum, it offers a unique window into the imperial power of the Qin Dynasty. The guide details the museum's key highlights, including the three main excavation pits: Pit 1, which holds the massive main force of over 6,000 life-size figures; Pit 2, showcasing complex tactical units like cavalry and crossbowmen; and Pit 3, the army's command center. It also draws attention to the "Bronze Chariots," renowned as masterpieces of ancient metallurgy. Beyond the history, the article provides essential practical information to ensure a smooth visit. It covers transportation options from Xi'an (including direct tourist buses and public transit), seasonal opening hours, and ticket pricing (120 RMB for adults). Crucially, it emphasizes the museum's strict real-name admission policy, advising travelers to book tickets in advance and carry valid identification such as a passport. This guide is designed to help tourists fully appreciate the scale and artistry of this archaeological masterpiece.

List of Agreements on Mutual Visa Exemption Between the People’s Republic of China and Foreign Countries ( In alphabetical order of foreign countries )

This comprehensive guide outlines key details for Chinese visa application, including 16 visa types (e.g., tourist L, business M, study X1/X2, work Z) and their respective applicant scopes. It specifies basic requirements like a valid passport (≥6 months validity), completed visa application form with photo, and supplementary documents (e.g., invitation letters, residence permits, academic admission notices) tailored to each visa category. Special notes include the 30-day residence permit application requirement for long-term visa holders (D, J1, Q1, S1, X1, Z) after entry. The guide also clarifies rules for applicants applying outside their nationality country and former Chinese citizens. Follow the step-by-step instructions and check the official online system for a smooth application process.

Experience the vast beauty and cultural depth of the Middle Kingdom in this immersive China travel diary. Written from the perspective of a curious explorer, this narrative guide takes you on a journey across four distinct regions, blending practical insights with deep personal reflection. The adventure begins in the north, climbing the wild sections of the Great Wall and cycling through Beijing’s ancient Hutongs. The journey then shifts to the spicy soul of the southwest, capturing the slow-paced tea culture and fiery hotpot of Chengdu. The narrative flows into the surreal landscapes of Zhangjiajie’s "Avatar" mountains and the poetic waters of the Li River in Guilin, offering a stark contrast to the urban finale in Shanghai. Here, the "Magic City" reveals a dazzling fusion of colonial history and futuristic skylines. Beyond the famous sights, this article delves into the authentic human connections—from chess games with locals to conversations in hidden cafes—that define the real China. Whether you are planning a trip or dreaming of one, this story reveals why China is a mosaic of experiences waiting to be felt, tasted, and explored.

Shanghai is a dialogue between centuries. In this personal travel diary, I explore China’s most dynamic metropolis not as a checklist of sites, but as a sensory conversation between its colossal past and its soaring future. My journey begins at dawn on the historic Bund, feeling the cool granite of colonial architecture while watching Pudong's skyscrapers ignite with the morning sun across the Huangpu River. I lose myself in the fragrant, narrow lanes of the Old Town, a living maze of steaming street food and serene classical gardens, then find peaceful repose under the leafy canopies of the former French Concession. A vertiginous ascent up the Shanghai Tower in Pudong offers a silent, awe-inspiring view of the city as a vast circuit board of ambition. Finally, I return to the Bund at night to witness the magnificent, illuminated duet between stone and glass. This experience reveals that Shanghai’s true magic lies not in choosing between its history and its future, but in standing in the thrilling space where both are constantly being remade.

Discover the captivating allure of the "Magic City" in this immersive travel diary, designed to be your ultimate guide to every must-visit Shanghai China tourist spot. Written from the perspective of a seasoned cultural companion, this article takes you beyond the typical sightseeing checklist and into the soul of the metropolis. The journey begins at The Bund at sunrise, witnessing the stunning contrast between colonial history and the futuristic Lujiazui skyline. It continues through the tree-lined avenues of the Former French Concession, exploring the romantic architecture of Wukang Mansion and the hidden lanes of Tianzifang. Experience the tranquility of Yu Garden, a masterpiece of Ming Dynasty landscape design, and the culinary art of eating Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings) at the famous City God Temple. The adventure scales new heights at the Shanghai Tower, offering a bird's-eye view from the world's second-tallest building, before grounding you in the rich flavors of local cuisine like Red Braised Pork. Whether you are seeking history, architectural marvels, or gastronomic delights, this narrative guide provides essential insights and personal reflections to help you navigate Shanghai’s dynamic blend of yesterday and tomorrow.

Guilin is not just a landscape; it’s a living dream. In this personal travel diary, I share my intimate journey through the heart of Guangxi’s iconic karst country. From the hushed, misty dawn on the Li River—watching cormorant fishermen as the peaks emerge from darkness—to the freedom of cycling through Yangshuo’s emerald rice paddies and drifting down the peaceful Yulong River on a bamboo raft, I explore both the famous sights and the quiet backroads. I descend into the dazzling, otherworldly Reed Flute Cave and climb Xianggong Hill for a sunset view that feels like seeing the earth breathe. Along the way, I savor the simple, soul-warming comfort of Guilin rice noodles. This is not just a guide; it’s an invitation to feel Guilin through its morning mists, its timeless rhythms, and its breathtaking, painterly beauty. Come, step inside the postcard.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Guilin, China, a destination celebrated worldwide for having the "finest scenery under heaven." This comprehensive travel diary and guide invites you to explore a living painting of limestone karst mountains and winding rivers. The itinerary spans the essential highlights: from the historic heart of Guilin city, featuring Elephant Trunk Hill and the Sun and Moon Pagodas, to the dreamlike cruise along the Li River towards Yangshuo. Discover the rural charm of the Yulong River on a bamboo raft, the bustling nightlife of West Street, and the awe-inspiring engineering of the Longji Rice Terraces. But Guilin is more than just views; it is a feast for the senses. Dive into the local culinary scene with mouth-watering descriptions of Guilin Rice Noodles, the famous Yangshuo Beer Fish, and traditional Oil Tea. Packed with practical tips on transportation, airport transfers, and cultural insights, this guide is your ultimate companion for planning the perfect trip to one of China's most enchanting regions. Whether you are a photographer, a foodie, or an adventurer, this article reveals why Guilin must be on your bucket list.

Step into a real-life Avatar world in China's Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, where ancient quartz-sandstone pillars rise through swirling clouds. My journey through this UNESCO site reveals its must-see wonders: hiking the serene Golden Whip Stream, witnessing the epic views from Yuanjiajie's "Hallelujah Mountain," crossing the thrilling Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, and exploring Tianmen Mountain's sky-high cave and cliffside walkways. This guide shares practical tips—like booking mountaintop stays in advance, choosing the best seasonal trails (spring for waterfalls, winter for snowscapes), and navigating park passes and transport. Whether you chase sunrise over seas of peaks or seek hidden valley stories, Zhangjiajie blends raw natural beauty with unforgettable adventure.

Are you planning a Great Wall of China tour that goes beyond the crowded tourist hubs? This immersive travel diary offers a raw and personal perspective on exploring one of the world’s greatest wonders. Written from the first-person viewpoint of a dedicated hiker, this article chronicles a multi-day adventure across four distinct and spectacular sections of the Wall, guiding you away from the cable cars and into the true heart of the dragon. The journey begins at Jiankou, the "Wild Wall," describing the thrill of scrambling up crumbling, overgrown cliffs that have remained untouched for centuries. The narrative then transitions to Mutianyu, highlighting the majestic architecture of the restored sections under the glow of a quiet sunset. The writer takes you deeper into history at Gubeikou, a battlefield section that whispers stories of ancient wars, before concluding with a breathtaking sunrise hike at Jinshanling, renowned as a photographer's paradise for its dense watchtowers and sea of clouds. This article is not just a guide; it is a sensory exploration of the grit, silence, and grandeur of the Wall. It offers practical insights for travelers seeking a deeper connection with history, proving that the best way to experience the Great Wall is to sweat on its steps and touch its ancient stones.

Are you wondering China where to visit for your next great adventure? This immersive travel diary takes you beyond the standard guidebooks and into the beating heart of the Middle Kingdom. Through the intimate, first-person perspective of a seasoned traveler, this article explores five iconic destinations that perfectly blend China's ancient history with its dynamic present. The journey begins in Beijing, balancing the monumental scale of the Great Wall with the quiet, authentic charm of the Hutongs. Next, we travel to Xi’an, the ancient soul of the country, to experience cycling atop historic city walls and savoring local flavors in the bustling Muslim Quarter. The pace slows down in Chengdu, a city of leisure famous for its fiery hot pot, giant pandas, and relaxing teahouse culture. For nature lovers, the narrative transports you to Yangshuo, where bamboo rafts drift peacefully beneath mountains that resemble traditional ink paintings. Finally, the trip concludes in Shanghai, a dazzling fusion of colonial history and futuristic skylines on the Bund. This article offers more than just a itinerary; it shares vivid sensory experiences—from the smell of roasting chestnuts to the electric energy of neon streets. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, or an adventurer, this guide provides essential insights and personal reflections to help you plan an unforgettable trip to China.

a immersive journey through Lijiang Old Town, starting at dawn to savor its quiet magic before tourists arrive. The author weaves vivid sensory details—the click of shoes on cobblestones, the gurgle of streams lining streets, the fragrance of jasmine and spicy Naxi cuisine—with deep dives into local culture and history. Key moments include connecting with Naxi residents: Auntie Ma who offered homemade breakfast and stories, Grandpa Li playing traditional pipa music, and artisans crafting silver jewelry and textiles. Explorations cover landmarks like Mu Family Mansion (a Ming-Qing imperial residence), Black Dragon Pool Park (with its perfect Jade Dragon Snow Mountain reflection), and Baisha Mural Temple (housing ancient Ming murals). The narrative highlights Lijiang’s unique blend of preserved tradition and warm hospitality—from joining Naxi women’s folk dances to learning basic weaving. As night falls, red lanterns and street music transform the town into a magical setting. More than a tourist account, it captures Lijiang Old Town as a living time capsule, where Naxi heritage thrives amid streams and cobblestones, leaving a lasting impression of peace and connection.