China Family Travel Guide: Where to Go & How to Plan
By Annie
As a China travel consultant and guide who has helped many families create unforgettable journeys across China — and I’ve taken my own family along for the ride more than once. Planning a family trip to China might feel overwhelming at first, especially if you’re traveling with kids or elderly relatives, but with the right approach, it’s much easier than you think.
Here’s my step-by-step guide, based on real experiences, to help you plan a smooth, exciting, and stress-free family adventure.
Choose the Best Time to Visit China
China is huge, and weather can vary greatly between regions.
- Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–October) are ideal for most destinations — mild temperatures, less rain, and beautiful scenery.
- Summer is great for highland areas like Tibet or Yunnan, but it’s hot and crowded in cities like Beijing, Xian and Shanghai.
- Winter works well if you want to see snow in Harbin or enjoy fewer crowds in major attractions.
Tip: Avoid Golden Week (early October) and Chinese New Year to avoid packed trains, busy attractions, and higher prices.
Top Destinations for Your Family Trip to China
When planning family travel in China, I like to balance cultural sights with hands-on activities and relaxing downtime. Based on popular China tours, here are my top picks, tailored for families. I’ve visited all these with kids aged 5-15, so my advice is practical.
Beijing – History & Culture for All Ages
Start here—Beijing a must for any family trip to China. The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square are iconic, but make it fun with a rickshaw ride through the hutongs (narrow alleys). The Great Wall at Mutianyu is less crowded and has a cable car—ideal for families. Most kids (and I!) loved the toboggan slide down; it’s thrilling but safe.
Spend 3-4 days: Visit Beijing Zoo for pandas if you can’t make it to Chengdu. Opinion: Skip the Summer Palace if time is tight; focus on interactive spots like an Acrobatic Show.
Xian – Ancient China Comes to Life
A short train ride from Beijing, Xian is home to the Terracotta Army—a UNESCO site with over 8,000 life-sized warriors. Kids are fascinated, and many kids pretended to be archaeologists. Cycling the ancient city walls for a family adventure is a fantastic activity—bikes are rentable on-site.
Tours often include a dumpling-making class, which is hands-on and delicious. I advise 2-3 days here; pair it with a Muslim Quarter food tour for street eats like lamb skewers.
Chengdu – Pandas & Relaxed Pace
If your family loves animals, this is non-negotiable. The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding lets you see dozens of pandas up close — mornings are the best time to catch them active. It’s one of the best conservation centers, with over 200 pandas.
My opinion? Go early to avoid crowds. Families can also spend a relaxed afternoon in People’s Park, sipping tea while the kids enjoy paddle boats. In the evening, a Sichuan opera with its famous face-changing performances is always a hit. Add a day trip to Leshan Giant Buddha.
Shanghai – Modern Comforts
Shanghai is a contrast to ancient sites. The Bund’s skyline is stunning at night, and Yu Garden offers peaceful walks. For kids, hit Shanghai Disneyland—it’s magical, with shorter lines than Orlando. A Huangpu River cruise is a family-favorite, offering spectacular views of the city’s futuristic architecture.
I recommend 3 days here: Shop in Nanjing Road, but watch for crowds.
Advice: Use the Maglev train from the Shanghai Pudong International Airport—the world’s fastest at 431 km/h.
Guilin & Yangshuo – Nature Playground
If your family enjoys nature, Guilin and Yangshuo offer a beautiful countryside escape. The Li River cruise is calm and scenic, perfect for all ages, while bamboo rafting and cycling through rice fields are gentle outdoor adventures. Colorful cave systems like Reed Flute Cave often become a surprise highlight for kids.
Essential Tips for Your Family Trip in China
- Visa and Entry: Most nationalities need a visa for China. It’s crucial to check the latest requirements for your nationality well in advance of your trip. I always recommend starting your visa application process early and checking the official Chinese embassy site for updates.
- Transportation in China: For international flights, I advise booking to major gateways like Beijing or Shanghai. For shorter city trips, consider hiring a private driver or using taxis/ride-sharing apps like Didi. The sheer efficiency and comfort of the high-speed trains make inter-city travel a breeze, turning journeys into part of the adventure.
- Accommodation in China: When it comes to accommodation, I highly recommend choosing family-friendly hotels or serviced apartments. Look for hotels that offer family rooms or suites, especially if you’re traveling with younger kids. Many hotels in China also offer babysitting services, giving you a chance to relax.