Overview of China

Quick Overview

China is the world's most populous country and the third largest by area. More than just a country, it is a continent spanning four time zones... but with a single time zone observed nationwide!

China boasts every type of vegetation and terrain. The western part consists of high mountains (Tibet with Everest), arid basins (Xinjiang), and desert plateaus (Inner Mongolia). The eastern zone, meanwhile, is made up of plains and plateaus in the north, and hills and medium-sized mountains in the south.

China in Five Tourist Regions

• Northern China: Far from being the most visited part of the country. Harsh climate, vast untouched expanses, unappealing cities, and limited heritage may explain this lack of interest. Nevertheless, Inner Mongolia with the Gobi Desert will always appeal to adventurers seeking off-the-beaten-path nature experiences.

• Central China: This region includes Beijing, Shanghai, Nanjing, Xi'an (and its Terracotta Army), the Great Wall of China, and numerous renowned Buddhist sites. It offers plenty to satisfy culture enthusiasts. However, there are fewer nature opportunities, with just a few mountain ranges suitable for hiking.

• Southern China: This part of the country has a lot to see and do, with a diversity that allows for urban tourism (Hong Kong, Macao), cultural discoveries (old town centers, Leshan Buddha...), beach holidays on Hainan Island, and especially stunning natural environments (Tiger Leaping Gorge, South China Karst regions, various mountain ranges...).

• Western China: Whether it's the local populations closer to those of Central Asia, the rugged and wild landscapes like the Taklamakan Desert and its oases, high-altitude lakes, or the famous Karakoram Highway crossing breathtaking mountain scenery, this is far from Beijing. The West is a true off-the-beaten-path nature-adventure destination, with added testimonies of Tibetan Buddhism well represented in the region.

• Tibet: For decades, this region has fascinated Western travelers. Its unique culture, vast wilderness, breathtaking landscapes, towering peaks, and fantastic trekking opportunities attract travelers... even though access to the region is highly regulated at times, and unsupervised stays (including solo travel) are not permitted.

Key Facts

• Type of place: country.

• Location: In the east of the Asian continent, it is the world's third-largest country by area.

• Latitude/longitude: 35°00' N, 105°00' E.

• Local time: Heure : 12814. Although the country spans five time zones, all of China observes the same time by government decision.

• Capital: Beijing (Beijing).

• Nature of the state: Single-party communist republic.

• Official language: Mandarin.

• Currency: Yuan (except for Hong Kong and Macao).

• Population: 1,384,688,986 inhabitants (2018).

• Area: 9,596,960 km².

• Density: 144 inhabitants/km².

• Highest point: Everest (8,848 m).

• Lowest point: Aiding Lake (-154 m) in Xinjiang.

• Coastline: 14,500 km.

• Driving: On the right.

Tourism

Vast, complex, and diverse in many ways, China never fails to make an impression and deserves multiple visits, as its regions are so different and will delight culture lovers, nature-adventure seekers, and even those looking for relaxation on the famous island of Hainan.

Given its diversity and "evolution," it is no surprise that China now ranks in the Top 10 most visited countries in the world, with over 60 million visitors per year (62.9 million in 2018). While the destination, particularly its capital and Shanghai, increasingly attracts Westerners, the majority of visitors still come from the region. South Korea (almost a third of arrivals), Vietnam, Japan, Malaysia, and Russia are the main source countries, just ahead of the United States.

Travel Essentials

• Destination: For beginner to somewhat experienced travelers.

• By air: France-Beijing.

• Entry requirements: Passport valid for at least six months after the exit date + visa (in almost all cases).

• Currency to bring:

• Exchange rate:

• Daily budget for budget travelers:

• Best for accommodation:

• Best for getting around:

• Risks:

• Best time for climate/crowds/prices:

• Interests (out of ★★★★): Nature ★★★★; Adventure ★★★; Culture ★★★★; Relaxation-holidays ★/ ★★

Useful Addresses

Socio-Economic Statistics

• "Quality of life": 86/188 (rank in 2018)

• GDP per capita: $16,700 (2017)

• Average monthly income: ()

• Inflation: +1.6% (2017)

• "Official" unemployment: 3.9% (2017)

• Population below poverty line: 3.3% (2016)

• Life expectancy: 75.8 years (2018)

• Migration rate per 1,000 inhabitants: -0.4 (2017)

• Population growth: +0.37% (2018)

• Literacy rate: 96.4% (2016)

• Urban population: 59.2% (2018)

• Press freedom: 176/180 (rank in 2018)

• Political regime: Authoritarian regime (130/167 in 2018)

Sources: World Bank, Human Development Indicators, RSF, The Economist, The World Factbook