How to Plan a Family Trip to China? – A Step-by-step Guide

Planning a family trip to China? That’s a fantastic idea! China is always among the top destinations for families thanks to its vast territory, diverse culture, profound history, stunning landscapes, fascinating foods, etc. Whether you are traveling in China with babies, kids, or elders, you’ll find age-appropriate attractions and activities in this diverse country.

Scroll down to read our step-by-step guide on how to plan a family-friendly trip to China. We have covered all the essential concerns, such as the recommended durations, budget, top cities and attractions, practical tips, etc. Some hand-picked China family tours are also listed for your inspiration.

Reasons to plan a family tour in China:

• Traveling in China with kids allows you to experience a millennia-old civilization, from traditional Chinese culture to diverse ethnic cultures.
• China is home to plenty of world-famous landmarks, such as the Great Wall.
• A travel to China will reward your family with a series of activities that are both enjoyable and educational.
• China’s vast culinary landscape offers diverse regional flavors.

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• How Long to Plan for a Family Trip to China
• Recommendations for Children of Different Ages
• Estimated Cost for a Family Trip to China
• Best Time for a Family Trip to China
• Top Places to Go for a Family Trip to China
• Accommodation Tips for a Family Trip to China
• Essential Tips for Traveling China with Baby/Kid
• FAQs about Planning a Family Tour to China
• Book Your Stress-free China Family Vacation with China Xian Tour

How Long to Plan for a Family Trip to China

Generally, 12-14 days in China is the recommended duration which allows you and your family to explore the country’s key cultural and natural attractions at a leisurely pace, and meanwhile, try an array of experiences and activities. During this duration, you can explore the most classic cities like Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Guilin, and Chengdu.

If you are limited in time, we recommend to spend 6-8 days exploring the Golden Triangle cities: spend 3-4 days in Beijing, 2 days in Xi’an, and 1-2 days in Shanghai.

Extended trips lasting 3 weeks or more will allow you to delve deeper into the country’s nature, culture, and history. You can extend your trip to Zhangjiajie, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Huangshan Mountain, and even venture to the remote ancient Silk Road or Tibet.

6–8 Days Family Itinerary: Beijing – Xi’an – Shanghai

Showcasing both the ancient history and modern charm of China, this itinerary has been the most classic choice and is known as Golden Triangle.

Day 1: Beijing Arrival

Day 2: Tian’anmen Square – Forbidden City – Temple of Heaven – Summer Palace

Day 3: Mutianyu Great Wall

Day 4: Take a high-speed train to Xian – Bell and Drum Tower Square – Muslim Quarter

Day 5: Terracotta Warriors –  Big Wild Goose Pagoda –  Grand Tang Ever-bright City

Day 6: Xi’an Museum – Small Wild Goose Pagoda – Xian City Wall – Shuyuan (Academy) Gate – Take a high-speed train to Shanghai

Day 7: Yu Garden – the Bund –  Nanjing Road – Xintiandi  – Jade Buddha Temple

Day 8: Departure

12–14 Days Family Itinerary: Beijing – Xi’an – Chengdu – Guilin – Shanghai

On the basis of the above classic China tour, this trip includes a visit to Chengdu to see the lovely pandas and a trip to Guilin, one of China’s most iconic natural destinations.

Day 1: Beijing Arrival

Day 2: Tian’anmen Square – Forbidden City – Jingshan Park – hutongs

Day 3: Temple of Heaven – Mutianyu Great Wall

Day 4: Summer Palace – Take a high-speed train to Xian

Day 5: Terracotta Warriors – Bell and Drum Tower Square – Gao’s Courtyard – Muslim Quarter

Day 6: Xian City Wall – Take a high-speed train to Chengdu

Day 7: Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base – Renmin Park – Jinli Street

Day 8: Take a flight to Guilin – Reed Flute Cave – Elephant Trunk Hill – Riyue Shuangta Cultural Park

Day 9: Longji Rice Terraces – Huangluo Yao Village

Day 10: Li River cruise – Yangshuo West Street – countryside cycling

Day 11: Take a flight to Shanghai – Shanghai Old Street – Shanghai Tower

Day 12: Yu Garden – the Bund –  Nanjing Road – Xintiandi  – Jade Buddha Temple

Day 13: Departure

Related reading:

• 10 Days in China – Best 10 Days Travel Ideas
• Best 8 Days China Tour Itinerary Ideas
• 5 Days in China: Best 5-Day Itinerary Options for First-Time Travelers

Recommendations for Children of Different Ages

• Your children’s ages and interests would matter a lot when planning the tour. For toddlers and preschoolers (2–5 years old), it’s better to travel in a rather slower pace and go for more open outdoor spots such as city parks or scenic sites with cable cars. In this case, the Great Wall’s cableway, panda bases, and gentle boat rides on West Lake or Li River are all great options. And also remember to pick hotels with family-friendly facilities for easy rest time.
• For kids aged 6–12, it would be better to give them some hands-on learning and exploration. And these activities can be found in places like the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, calligraphy or dumpling-making classes, or crafting mini Terracotta Warriors in Xi’ For those who are interested in pandas, Chengdu Panda Base is also an ideal place to explore and such a trip is likely to inspire their curiosity and excitement.
• Teenagers (13+) often find it more interesting in exploring adventure and modern culture. Art zones and tech districts like Beijing’s 798 Art Zone or Shanghai’s Nanjing Road may give them a better time. Hiking the Great Wall, visiting Zhangjiajie’s glass bridge, or photographing the Bund skyline adds even more fun and challenge.

Estimated Cost for a Family Trip to China

The actual expenses for your family trip might differ based on your preferences, traveling periods, travel styles, etc. A rough estimate is that a 10-day private tour for a family of four (2 adults and 2 kids) would cost around $ 6,000-8,000. Below is a breakdown of the some average expenses:

• Accommodation: about $40 to $240 per night with an average of $69;
• Meals: about $23 per person per day on average;
• Intracity transportation: about $16 per person per day;
• Entrance fees & activities: $30-150 per person per day;
• Intercity transportation: For example, from Beijing to Shanghai, a high-speed train ride costs about $ 83-97 for a second-class seat per person, and a flight will cost about $83-150 per person for economic class seat.

Good to know:

1. In peak season like summer holiday, May Day Festival and National Day Festival, the cost will be about 30% higher than usual.
2. Since cashless payment methods are ubiquitous in China, to ensure a smooth travel experience, it’s recommended to familiarize yourself on how to pay in China before your trip to China.

Learn more details on China trip cost.

Best Time for a Family Trip to China

Thanks to the vast territory and diverse landforms, China encompasses various climates and weather patterns. In general, spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are the times when most regions enjoy pleasant weather and vibrant scenery. (See also How to Plan a Spring Trip to China?)

Considering your vacation needs to align with your children’s summer holiday or winter holiday,  here are the recommended cities and activities for both seasons for your reference.

Summer Holiday (June – August)

Travelling in summer, the theme of your tour will be avoiding summer retreat. “The Capital of Coolness” Guizhou and Royal Summer Resort Chengde are highly recommended destinations. Besides, the mountainous scenic areas, like Zhangjiajie and Changbai Mountain, are also ideal choices, where the lush forests create a refreshingly cooler climate than elsewhere.

Tips:

1. July and August are also the summer vacation for children in China, so it would be better if you can visit China in June to avoid the large crowds. The Dragon Boat Festival is also usually in late June. You can visit Jiaxing and learn to make Zongzi from inheritors of intangible cultural heritage.
2. Please expect higher prices for accommodations and transportation and longer wait times for popular sites during this period.

Winter Holiday (Late December – January)

Winter is the best time for a snow and ice tour. Harbin in northeast China stands out for its annual International Ice and Snow Festival from mid-December.

If you want to escape the winter cold, Sanya, with a tropical climate and abundant beaches and water activities, is preferred by most travelers.

You can also experience China’s grandest festival, Chinese New Year. In hot tourist cities like Beijing, Xian and Shanghai, various celebrations are held.

Tips:

If travelling during Chinese New Year holiday, the hotels and tickets for trains, flights and attractions are sold out very quickly. Remember to make a reservation in advance.

Related reading: Worst Times to Visit China: Dates to Avoid for Your China Tour

Top Places to Go for a Family Trip to China

Below are the top recommended destinations for family travel to China, especially if you and your family are traveling to China for the first time. These places offer some of the most classic cultural immersions, historical heritages, natural landscapes, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights. You can also expect some unique experiences you have never encountered in other parts of the world before. >> Related reading: How to Plan a Beijing Xian Shanghai Itinerary

Beijing:

The capital and political heart of China, offering experiences of the country’s imperial past at the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Great Wall, etc.

Visitors can also take a traditional rickshaw ride to glimpse into the everyday lives of local Beijingers and their traditional courtyard residences in the Beijing Hutongs. With kids, you can consider arranging them a fun Kung Fu show or acrobatics performance in the evening.

>> Learn more about: How to Plan a Family Trip to Beijing

Xi’an:

Once served as the capital for 13 dynasties in China’s history, Xian is endowed with rich historical and cultural marvels, including the world renowned Terracotta Army, Ancient City Wall, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Bell and Drum Tower, Shaanxi History Museum, etc.

The city is also known for its diverse foods, with the Muslim Quarter the top place to savor authentic local food and life. If interested, enjoy a hands-on pottery or dumpling-making experience with local families.

Shanghai:

The largest and most prosperous city in China which beautifully balances modernity and tradition. It’s where you can not only encounter the colonial buildings and skyscrapers along the Bund, and also experience the antique beauty of Yuyuan Garden and Zhujiajiao Water Town. Families with kids should not miss the Shanghai Disneyland and Shanghai Circus World.

See more advice on how to plan a family trip to Shanghai

Guilin:

A Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo allows you to appreciate the stunning karst landscape and countryside scenery at ease. Families with children will love to take the exciting bamboo rafting along Yulong River or cycle in Yangshuo to see its rural scenery and ethnic life.

Chengdu:

No one can resist the adorable pandas in Chengdu and the captivating Sichuan opera. Those traveling to China with elders will love the laid-back lifestyle and tea culture of Chengdu. Food lovers should not miss to try its savory and spicy food, especially the hotpot.

Yangtze River:

Recommended for the multi-generational families, a Yangtze River cruise trip allows to marvel at the stunning natural beauty of China at a leisurely pace. Many ashore activities are included.

Zhangjiajie:

The cloud-kissing karst pillars in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park are inspirations of Hallelujah Mountains in the movie Avatar. Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge and the skywalks on Tianmen Mountain are for those who like thrilling outdoor adventures.

Related reading: Best Things to Do in China with Kids

Accommodation Tips for a Family Trip to China

From luxury international brands to boutique hotels and guesthouses featuring authentic local feel, China offers a diverse array of hotels catering to different preferences and styles. Below are some practical accommodation tips for families with babies or kids:

• Choose hotels with family rooms or adjoining rooms: Usually, 4 or 5-star hotels in China offer family rooms with extra beds that can accommodate two adults and two kids. Or, you can choose adjoining rooms which means you and your kids’ room are connected by a door.
• Reputable hotel brands are more recommended: both international and domestic brands are okay. The chain hotels are more likely to maintain high stadard services, and commonly provide kid-friendly facilities.
• Try some boutique hotels with local charm:For a unique and personalized lodging experience and an experience of local charm, boutique hotels are also a great option.
• Book in Advance, Especially During Peak Seasons: China is a popular destination throughout the year, especially during national holidays and summer and winter holidays. During these peak seasons, hotels tend to fill up quickly or charge higher rates.

Essential Tips for Traveling China with Baby/Kid

• Health and Safety: carry basic medicines for your baby/kids as medical practices may differ in China;
• Pack layers of clothing for easy adaption to changing weather conditions.
• A baby sling is recommended for easy movement in crowded areas.
• There are nursing rooms available in airports and big supermarkets, but it is still less common in China.
• When traveling with babies or young kids, meal options are also a major concern. But don’t worry too much, most destinations would have restaurants serving mild and kid-friendly dishes that even picky eaters will enjoy. Some popular and safe choices include plain rice noodles, steamed buns (baozi), egg drop soup, tomato and egg stir-fry, fried rice with vegetables, congee (rice porridge), and steamed fish or chicken.
• And to guarantee a smooth travel, consider downloading a few essential apps:
  • • • • • Baidu Maps or AMap (Gaode Map) for navigation
          • DiDi for ride-hailing
          • WeChat for communication and mobile payment
          • Alipay for easy purchasesand mobile payment
          • Pleco for translation and reading Chinese menus
          • Ctrip for hotel, attractionand train bookings.
• Note that it may be difficult to find child car seats in most places in China, even in taxis or private transfers. So that if you’re traveling with toddlers, consider bringing a lightweight portable car seat or child travel harness by yourself. For short rides, it would sound more practical to bring a baby sling or carrier, especially in crowded urban areas.

FAQs about Planning a Family Tour to China

Does every member of my family, including infants, need a Chinese visa?

Yes. All travelers, including infants, must have valid visas unless you can see yourself eligible for visa-free entry or transit exemptions (240 hour visa-free transit policy). Always check the latest regulations before traveling.

Are there child discounts at attractions and for transportation?

Yes, many attractions and transport services offer reduced or free tickets for children, and this is usually based on their height or age. For example, kids under 1.2 meters (around 3.9 feet) can often enter sites for free or only pay half price.

Do I need to carry cash, or can I use mobile payment apps?

Mobile payment is pervasive in China. Now, to make China tours more convenient, it is already possible for foreign visitors to link their international credit or debit cards to Alipay or WeChat Pay. However, it’s still smart to carry some cash when visiting some quite rural areas.

Book Your Stress-free China Family Vacation with China Xian Tour

It can be easy and fun to have a family tour with China Xian Tour. Our experts can create the most family-friendly itineraries based on your children’s and your family members’ ages and interests. And no matter where you want to go or what you want to explore, we’ll handle every detail along the way, so all of you can simply enjoy a safe and relaxing China trip.

Related Readings for Your Smooth Travel to China

• • How to Plan Your First Trip to China – Ultimate Guide
  • Top 16 China Travel Tips – Must-Knows Before You Travel to China
  • How to Choose a Train Type & Seat Class in China?
  • Top 10 Places for Your Second Trip to China