Hello everyone, I am Jeremy, from the United States, and I have been working in China for 8 years. I have visited many places in China and can be considered a China expert now. I am here to answer your questions. If you can spare a few minutes, please read through my guide carefully. It will definitely help you avoid detours on your trip to China and make your journey colorful and rich! China is a vast country with numerous scenic spots and beautiful natural scenery. It is a country with deep cultural heritage and diverse humanistic landscapes.1.      Which city should we arrive at first when traveling to China?China ranks third in the world in terms of area. It has many beautiful and developed cities, all of which are equipped with airports. Choosing the right arrival city is the first step to travel to China. Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Chengdu, and Chongqing are all international metropolises and have the most international flights. When booking tickets, you can set these cities as arrival cities and screen and book tickets that suit you.2.      China's tourist visa policy In 2024China implemented a 24-hour, 72-hour, or 144-hour transit visa-free policy for citizens of multiple countries. The implementation of these policies aims to promote personnel exchanges between China and foreign countries, attract more foreign tourists to visit China, and also provide more convenience for foreigners in China. If your plan to travel to China exceeds 6 days, please apply for a Chinese tourist visa through normal channels and procedures. There are too many fun places in China to list them all at once. Your choice of Beijing, Xi'an, Mogao Grottoes, and the Silk Road in China is very worthwhile and one of the most popular travel routes for most visitors to China. Now, let me answer your question in detail.3.      My impressions of these Chinese tourist destinations:Beijing: Beijing, the capital of China, is an ancient capital with a history of over 3,000 years. It has had different names in different dynasties, with about 20 other nicknames. Beijing has a profound cultural heritage and is a city that combines classical and modern elements. It gathers Chinese culture from the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, leaving many famous historic sites and humanistic landscapes. There is a Chinese saying: "If you don't climb the Great Wall, you are not a hero." Remember to visit Badaling Great Wall, the most outstanding representative of the Chinese Great Wall and the longest man-made structure in the world. Recommended attractions: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City·Palace Museum, Beijing hutongs, Badaling Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Olympic Park, Bird's Nest Water Cube, etc.Xi'an: Xi'an, formerly known as Chang'an, means long-term peace. Xi'an has a long history, being the capital of 13 dynasties and having a civilization history of over 7,000 years. It is one of the four great ancient capitals of the world, alongside Athens, Rome, and Cairo, and is an important birthplace of Chinese civilization and the Chinese nation. Xi'an is the starting point of the Silk Road. Today, the walls of Xi'an and the walls of the Tang Dynasty palaces still hint at Xi'an's glorious past. Recommended attractions: Terracotta Warriors Museum, Shaanxi History Museum, Huaqing Palace, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Mount Hua, etc.Gansu: Gansu is the golden section of the Silk Road and is like a magnificent treasure embedded in the central part of China. The famous Hexi Corridor is located in Gansu, also known as the Gansu Corridor. People often say: "If you don't go to the northwest of China, you don't know how vast the world is; if you don't go to the Hexi Corridor, you don't know the diversity of China." Recommended attractions: Dunhuang·Mogao Grottoes, Crescent Spring, Jiayuguan City Wall, Zhangye·Colorful Danxia, Big Buddha Temple, Tianshi Mountain Grottoes, Tianshui Maiji Mountain.Recommended cities: Dunhuang, Jiayuguan, Jiuquan, Zhangye, Wuwei, Lanzhou, Tianshui, Gannan Tibetan Area.4.      About saving money when traveling to China:If you want to save money when traveling, it is best to find local travel companies or local guides, which can truly save you money. For example, if you inquire about prices from American local travel companies, the prices they give you are much higher than those of Chinese local travel companies. Sometimes, the price is even 50% higher. The reference travel routes they offer are not very special, and the departure dates are fixed. You have to travel at the time they specify, and sometimes your vacation time may not allow it. Once you learn to bargain in China, you will also know that no matter where you sign up for a group, the final destination is to hand over to a Chinese local travel company for arrangement. Therefore, if you want to save money, you should avoid middlemen and find a Chinese local company directly. This is more straightforward, and one-on-one communication is much more convenient. The route design is more flexible.5.      How to choose a local travel service agency in China:I am based in Beijing and Xi'an, and I have been to Gansu many times. Sometimes I travel by myself, and sometimes I accompany friends or clients to travel and vacation. At the same time, I have met some excellent local reception service travel companies and tour guides. Finding the right person and an excellent travel service company and tour guide can save you money, be super worry-free, and experience more travel fun. Through the introduction of my Chinese colleagues, I met Gavin, a senior Chinese travel planner who has his own travel company and studied in the United States before. Gavin is enthusiastic, professional, and every time I go out to play, I have a great time, thanks to his high-quality service. If you find it troublesome to look up information and inquire about prices, you can directly contact Gavin for one-on-one consultation, which will be very convenient.6.      Recommended travel routes for Beijing, Xi'an, and Mogao Grottoes:Day 1: Arrival in BeijingDay 2: Tian'anmen Square & Forbidden City & Hutong(old alleyways)Day 3: Temple of Heaven & Mutianyu Great WallDay 4: Summer Palace & Xi’an(High-speed rail) & Grand Tang Dynasty Ever-bright CityDay 5: Terracotta Warriors & Big Wild Goose PagodaDay 6: Xi’an City Wall & High-Speed Train to TianshuiDay 7: Maijishan Grottoes & Transfer to LanzhouDay 8: Lanzhou – Zhongshan Bridge & Gansu Provincial MuseumDay 9: Tianti Mountain Grottoes & Zhangye Giant Buddha TempleDay 10: Zhangye Danxia Landform & Jiayuguan PassDay 11: Jiayuguan to Dunhuang – Echoing Sand Mountains & Crescent Moon LakeDay 12: Mogao Caves & Western Thousand Buddha CavesDay 13: Departure or Continue Your Journey7.      Wonderful moments of traveling in China:Beijing is a charming city with both classical charm and modern flair. Narrow alleys, old teahouses, trendy bar streets, and bustling commercial districts blend seamlessly, creating a profound cultural heritage and authentic lifestyle in Beijing."Not reaching the Great Wall is not being a hero!" Badaling Great Wall is the essence of the Great Wall and is uniquely representative among the Ming Dynasty Great Walls in China.Most first-time visitors to Beijing will make the Forbidden City a must-visit destination. The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, was the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties and is the symbol and representation of ancient China. When you stand within the grand and orderly walls and courtyards, you can truly feel its former glory. The long history has left a large number of precious buildings and countless cultural relics, which have become the main attractions of playing in the Forbidden City today.Beijing has absorbed the essence of Manchu and Han dietary cultures. Royal and street flavors coexist here. In addition to various traditional Beijing snacks, there are also unique Beijing official dishes, Islamic cuisine, and private dishes.Xi'an is the city with the most dynasties established and the greatest influence in Chinese history. It is praised as "a golden city of a thousand miles and a land of abundance" in Records of the Grand Historian. Most of the attractions in Xi'an are historical relics. The city wall, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Bell (Drum) Tower inside the city cannot be missed.Riding a bike or strolling on the city wall of Xi'an, which has a history of over 600 years, allows you to overlook the ancient capital of 13 dynasties.The Shaanxi History Museum is known as the "Treasure House of China" and the "Glorious Hall of Chinese Civilization," condensing the essence of Chinese history.The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is located in the Cishou Temple and is also known as the "Cishou Temple Pagoda." It was built by Master Xuanzang to preserve the scriptures and Buddha statues he brought back from India via the Silk RoadTerracotta Warriors are a concentrated embodiment of the wisdom of the ancient Chinese nation, representing the superb craftsmanship and craftsmanship spirit of the master craftsmen. They also represent the tiniest details of the grand civilization of that era. The thousand-year-old Mogao Grottoes, the dream of Dunhuang, the key point of the ancient Silk Road, feel the thickness and changes of history and culture in the exquisite murals and grottoes. The first time I saw the desert was very shocking. Climbing up the Crescent Sand Mountain, you can overlook the Crescent Spring, and you can also enjoy the sunset of the desert on the top of the mountain, feeling the desolation and vastness of the northwest desert. Mogao Grottoes is a famous cultural and artistic treasure house in China. With its unique historical, cultural and artistic value, it has been listed as a world cultural heritage by UNESCO. The murals are vivid and colorful. I am very grateful to Gvain for providing high-quality services every time, which has provided great help for our travel and ensured that our trip is very smooth. There are many interesting places in China, so I will not list them one by one. Everyone can leave a message to discuss together.

As a frequent traveler to China and a British travel enthusiast, I think one of the best ways to explore this vast country is by train. China's railway network is extensive, reliable, and an excellent option for both short and long-distance travel. However, for foreigners, buying train tickets can sometimes be a bit tricky due to language barriers, complex booking systems, and different regulations. In this guide, I’ll outline the challenges and offer solutions, including a recommendation for a trusted travel company that can help make the process smoother.Challenges Foreigners Face When Buying Train Tickets in China:1.      Language Barriers: One of the main issues for foreign travelers is that the majority of China’s train booking platforms are in Chinese, and English versions often lack full functionality. At the train stations, most ticket staff only speak Chinese, which can make in-person ticket purchases difficult.2.      Passport Requirements: Foreigners are required to present their passports when purchasing train tickets, both online and in person. If you’re buying tickets through Chinese apps or websites, it can be challenging to input foreign passport details correctly. Errors in passport information may prevent ticket collection or boarding.3.      Limited Access to Booking Platforms: While Chinese citizens can easily book tickets through platforms like 12306 (the official train ticketing website), foreigners often struggle with verifying accounts and navigating the Chinese-only interface. Additionally, many international credit cards are not accepted on these platforms, making payment a hurdle.4.      Ticket Availability: Popular train routes can sell out quickly, especially during holidays and peak travel seasons. For foreigners who are not familiar with Chinese holidays or the high demand on certain routes, securing tickets at the right time can be a challenge.5.      Collecting Tickets: Even if you successfully book online, you’ll often need to pick up your physical tickets at the train station using your passport. This can be a time-consuming process, especially during busy periods. Some stations have long queues, and signage or instructions in English may be limited.Recommended Travel Company for Assistance:To simplify the process, I recommend using askchinatravel.com. They offer a reliable train ticket booking service for foreigners and can assist with everything from reserving tickets to arranging ticket collection. Their website is user-friendly, available in English, and accepts international credit cards, which is a huge plus. They also provide English-speaking support and ticket delivery service to your hotel if needed.Buying train tickets in China as a foreigner can come with its set of challenges, from language barriers to navigating unfamiliar booking platforms. However, with the right guidance and assistance, it’s entirely possible to enjoy the convenience of China’s fantastic rail network. By using a travel service like askchinatravel.com, you can avoid many of the common pitfalls and ensure a hassle-free experience. Safe travels, and enjoy your journey across China by train!

I have been working in China for 5 years. Each year I spend all of my vacations traveling around China; among all of the places I have been to, Mogao Caves was my favorite. I’m so glad you asked about it and agog to answer with everything I know. Discovering the Mogao Caves: A Traveler’s GuideThe Mogao Caves, also known as the Thousand Buddha Grottoes, are a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Dunhuang, China. These remarkable caves house thousands of ancient murals and sculptures, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural and religious history of the Silk Road. If you're planning a trip to China, a visit to the Mogao Caves should be high on your list. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your journey.Where Are the Mogao Caves?How to Get to the Mogao Caves?When Is the Best Time to Visit the Mogao Grottoes?How to Plan Your Mogao Caves Tour?Recommended Tour Companies and GuidesWhere Are the Mogao Caves?The Mogao Caves are located near Dunhuang, in Gansu Province, northwest China. While it may seem remote, traveling to the caves is quite manageable with proper planning.How to Get to the Mogao Caves? Ÿ   From Beijing or Shanghai: There are direct flights to Dunhuang, or you can take a flight to nearby Lanzhou and then continue on to Dunhuang by high-speed railway.Ÿ   From Xi’an: For a more efficient route, consider traveling from Xi'an, one of China’s ancient capitals. Xi'an is well-connected by high-speed trains and flights to Lanzhou and Dunhuang, making it a convenient stop. Plus, while you're in Xi'an, take the opportunity to explore the city's famous attractions, such as the Terracotta Army and the ancient city wall. Combining Xi'an with your visit to the Mogao Caves offers a two-in-one cultural experience.When Is the Best Time to Visit the Mogao Grottoes?Each season offers a different experience, so your choice will depend on what you want to see and do.Ÿ   Spring (April to June): Mild temperatures make spring one of the best times to visit. The caves are less crowded, and the desert scenery begins to bloom with life.Ÿ   Summer (July to August): While summer is the peak tourist season, be prepared for hot desert temperatures. However, this is a great time for photographers to capture the vivid murals in the caves.Ÿ   Autumn (September to October): The cooler, pleasant weather makes autumn ideal for visiting the caves. The crowds thin out, and the surrounding landscape is bathed in golden hues, making this the perfect season for both sightseeing and photography.Ÿ   Winter (November to March): The cold temperatures keep most tourists away, offering a quiet, serene experience. While some caves may be closed, you’ll have a peaceful, uninterrupted visit.How to Plan Your Mogao Caves Tour?To make the most of your time during the tour, careful planning is key. Here’s a recommended route:Day 1: Arrival in Xi’anDay 2: Terracotta Warriors & Big Wild Goose PagodaDay 3: Xi’an City Wall & High-Speed Train to TianshuiDay 4: Maijishan Grottoes & Transfer to LanzhouDay 5: Lanzhou – Zhongshan Bridge & Gansu Provincial MuseumDay 6: Tianti Mountain Grottoes & Zhangye Giant Buddha TempleDay 7: Zhangye Danxia Landform & Jiayuguan PassDay 8: Jiayuguan to Dunhuang – Echoing Sand Mountains & Crescent Moon LakeDay 9: Mogao Caves & Western Thousand Buddha CavesDay 10: DepartureMy Travel Impressions of the Xi’an-Mogao Caves JourneyTraveling from Xi'an to Dunhuang is like stepping back in time. The ancient city of Xi'an, with its deep history, sets the stage perfectly for a visit to the Mogao Caves. The journey itself, whether by high-speed train or flight, offers stunning views of the changing landscapes—from the lush greenery of Xi’an to the rugged desert terrain of Dunhuang. Arriving at the Mogao Caves, the beauty and tranquility of the site were awe-inspiring. Each cave tells a story, and walking through them feels like being transported into the ancient world of the Silk Road.Memorable Moments at the Mogao CavesOne of the most unforgettable experiences at the Mogao Caves is standing before the massive reclining Buddha statue, surrounded by intricate murals that have stood the test of time. The attention to detail in both the sculptures and the paintings is nothing short of extraordinary. Another highlight is the breathtaking view of the caves nestled into the cliffs, with the vast desert stretching out in the background—a powerful reminder of the importance of the Silk Road as a cultural bridge.Recommended Travel PlannerMy recent trip to the Mogao Caves was nothing short of extraordinary, all thanks to Gavin's impeccable planning and thoughtful recommendations! From organizing the perfect itinerary to providing insightful historical context, Gavin ensured that every moment of the tour was engaging and smooth. His expertise in the region's cultural heritage, especially the significance of the Silk Road, made the visit even more enriching. We had seamless access to the caves and enjoyed some lesser-known spots, which added an element of surprise to the journey.I highly recommend Gavin for anyone planning a trip to the Mogao Caves or other historical sites in China. His professionalism, attention to detail, and deep knowledge truly made this trip unforgettable! In conclusion, the Mogao Caves are a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Chinese history, art, or culture. With a bit of preparation, you’ll find the journey to be both accessible and unforgettable.

The northwest, with its vast and mysterious land, boasts breathtaking natural scenery and profound historical and cultural heritage. Choosing the right season to visit can make your journey in the northwest more perfect. Let's explore the best season for traveling in the northwest and the corresponding exciting itinerary together.Spring in Northwest China(March - May) The northwest experiences a gradual warming of temperatures, but there is still a significant difference between day and night. At this time, the earth begins to revive, the grasslands gradually turn green, and various wildflowers bloom, creating a picturesque scene. In the Ili area of Xinjiang, the rape fields are lush, as if they form a golden ocean. The Danxia landform in Zhangye, Gansu, under the spring sunshine, has more distinct colors and clearer layers.Recommended Attractions Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang: At this time, there are relatively fewer tourists, so you can enjoy the murals art more quietly and feel the charm of a thousand-year culture.4 Kashgar in Xinjiang: The strong folk customs and ancient architecture will make you feel like you have traveled back in time.Precautions Pay attention to keeping warm and bring enough warm clothing such as thick coats and sweaters. Since the climate in spring is relatively dry, bring moisturizing skincare products and drinking water.Summer in Northwest China (June - August)Summer is the peak tourist season in the northwest, with suitable temperatures, especially in plateau areas, which are great places to escape the heat. At this time, the sky is blue with white clouds, the grass is green, and the lake water is clear. The water of Qinghai Lake is azure, surrounded by blooming rape flowers, forming a stunning picture.1 The alpine meadows of Qilian Mountain are cool and pure, suitable for hiking and camping.Recommended Attractions Qinghai Lake: You can cycle or take a boat tour to enjoy the scenery of mountains and lakes. Tianchi Lake in Xinjiang: A cool place to escape the heat, with clear lake water surrounded by mountains. Jiayuguan Pass in Gansu: Experience the grandeur of a thousand-year pass.Precautions Take sun protection measures and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat. Book accommodation in advance to avoid accommodation shortages during the tourist peak season.Autumn in Northwest China (September - November) Autumn in the northwest has high and thin clouds, pleasant weather, and is a golden season to appreciate natural landscapes and experience local culture. Leaves turn yellow, grasslands take on golden hues, and fruits are ripe. The water of Kanas Lake is as green as jade, surrounded by colorful mountains that are simply beautiful.2 The autumn of the Nalati Grassland is a sea of gold, complemented by blue skies and white clouds.Recommended Attractions Kanas: Known as "the fairyland on earth", the autumn scenery is poetic and picturesque. Mount Hua in Shaanxi: A good time to climb and enjoy the view, with red leaves covering the mountain and spectacular scenery. Orchards in Xinjiang: Taste delicious fruits and experience the joy of harvest.PrecautionsPay attention to weather changes and bring appropriate clothing to prevent large temperature differences between day and night. Respect local autumn harvest customs and do not damage crops casually.In conclusion, each season in the northwest has its unique charm. No matter which season you choose to go, you will have an unforgettable travel experience. Be well-prepared before departure to make your journey in the northwest more smooth and enjoyable. 

Gansu, a province in northwest China, is a hidden gem that has recently been recognized as one of the most worthwhile travel destinations in Asia by the Lonely Planet. With its rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes, Gansu offers an unforgettable travel experience. Let's embark on this wonderful journey and discover the charm of Gansu.Historical and Cultural Treasures of GansuGansu is a historical and cultural treasure trove. The Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang are a world-renowned heritage site. These grottoes contain exquisite murals and sculptures that showcase the brilliance of ancient Buddhist art. The Yumen Pass and Jiayuguan, remnants of the Great Wall, stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time and the strategic importance of this region in ancient times.The Labrang Monastery in Xiahe is one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. Its grand architecture and solemn religious atmosphere attract countless pilgrims and tourists. Gansu also has a rich collection of ancient tombs and cultural relics, providing a window into the past.Natural Wonders of GansuThe natural landscapes of Gansu are simply astonishing. The Zhangye Danxia Landform is a masterpiece of nature, with its vibrant colors and unique geological formations. The Qilian Mountains offer magnificent views of snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and vast grasslands.The Gobi Desert and the Crescent Moon Spring in Dunhuang create a contrast of desolation and vitality. The clear spring in the midst of the desert is a wonder that leaves visitors in awe.Local Cuisine and Specialties of GansuGansu's cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors. The Lanzhou Clear Soup Beef Noodles are a must-try. The hand-pulled noodles, combined with a rich and flavorful broth, are simply irresistible. The Yangrou Paomo, a lamb-based dish, is another local favorite.The local snacks such as Liangpi, a cold dish made of flour, and Zangbao, a unique steamed dumpling filled with minced lamb or beef, offer a taste of the local culinary traditions. Gansu is a place where history, nature, and culture converge. Its unique charm and attractions make it a truly remarkable travel destination. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a food enthusiast, Gansu has something to offer. Come and explore this wonderful province and create memories that will last a lifetime.