<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0"><channel><title>Journey2East</title><description>Practical travel guides for foreigners visiting China.</description><link>https://journey2east.com/</link><item><title>Which Airlines Fly to China? A Guide to Your Options</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/airlines-that-fly-to-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/airlines-that-fly-to-china/</guid><description>The major airlines flying to China from North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia — plus how to find the best fare.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Are Chinese People Xenophobic? An Honest Answer for Visitors</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/are-chinese-people-xenophobic/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/are-chinese-people-xenophobic/</guid><description>Worried about how you&apos;ll be treated in China? An honest look at attitudes toward foreigners — curiosity vs hostility, what staring really means, and what to expect.</description><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Arriving at a Chinese Airport: Immigration &amp; Customs</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/arriving-at-chinese-airports/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/arriving-at-chinese-airports/</guid><description>What to expect at immigration and customs when you land in China.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Beijing in 1–3 Days: A Self-Guided Itinerary</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/beijing-itinerary/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/beijing-itinerary/</guid><description>Forbidden City, the Great Wall and hutongs — a practical day-by-day plan you can follow on your own.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Best eSIM for China in 2026: Stay Connected Instantly</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/best-esim-for-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/best-esim-for-china/</guid><description>An eSIM gets you online the moment you land — and some even bypass the Great Firewall. Here are the best options.</description><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Best Time to Visit China by Region (and How to Dodge the Crowds)</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/best-time-to-visit-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/best-time-to-visit-china/</guid><description>China spans every climate, so the best time to visit depends on where you go. A region-by-region guide, season-by-season route ideas, and the domestic-holiday dates to avoid.</description><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>My Recommended Hotels in China: Good Value &amp; Great Location</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/best-value-hotels-in-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/best-value-hotels-in-china/</guid><description>Hand-picked hotels across China’s major cities that balance price, comfort, and a location worth staying in.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>The Black Pearl Guide: China&apos;s Own Fine-Dining List</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/black-pearl-restaurant-guide-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/black-pearl-restaurant-guide-china/</guid><description>The Black Pearl Restaurant Guide (黑珍珠) is China&apos;s home-grown answer to Michelin — covering far more cities and understanding Chinese cuisine more deeply. Here is how it works and how to use it.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Booking Hotels in China: What Foreigners Need to Know</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/booking-hotels-in-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/booking-hotels-in-china/</guid><description>Which hotels accept foreigners, where to book, and what to expect.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Can Foreigners Visit Xinjiang and Tibet? The Rules, Explained</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/can-foreigners-visit-xinjiang-and-tibet/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/can-foreigners-visit-xinjiang-and-tibet/</guid><description>Xinjiang and Tibet have very different rules for foreign travellers — Tibet needs a permit and an organized tour, while Xinjiang is open but heavily policed. Here is exactly how each works.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Cantonese Cuisine: Dim Sum, Roast Meats &amp; Fresh Seafood</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/cantonese-cuisine/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/cantonese-cuisine/</guid><description>A guide to Cantonese food — dim sum, char siu, roast goose and delicate seafood, and where to eat it in southern China.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Chengdu in 1–3 Days: A Self-Guided Itinerary</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/chengdu-itinerary/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/chengdu-itinerary/</guid><description>Pandas, hotpot and a famously relaxed pace — your day-by-day plan for Chengdu.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>The Perfect 4-Week China Itinerary (30-Day Visa-Free Trip)</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/china-4-week-itinerary/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/china-4-week-itinerary/</guid><description>A complete day-by-day 4-week itinerary for China&apos;s 30-day visa-free entry — the Great Wall, Terracotta Army, pandas, Avatar mountains, Li River karst and Shanghai, all by high-speed rail.</description><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>China’s Cultural Highlights: History, Temples &amp; Traditions</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/china-culture-highlights/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/china-culture-highlights/</guid><description>The monuments, ancient towns and living traditions that make China’s culture so rich — and where to experience them.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Leaving China: Departure &amp; Airport Tips</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/china-departure-tips/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/china-departure-tips/</guid><description>How to handle your departure from China smoothly, from check-out to boarding.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>China for Every Traveller: Seniors, Families, LGBTQ+</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/china-for-every-traveller/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/china-for-every-traveller/</guid><description>Whoever you are, China is a safe and rewarding place to visit — with a few tips tailored to how you travel. Guides for seniors, families with kids, LGBTQ+ visitors and solo women.</description><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>China for Muslim Travellers: Halal Food, Mosques &amp; Prayer</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/china-for-muslim-travellers/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/china-for-muslim-travellers/</guid><description>A practical guide for Muslim visitors to China — where to find halal food, how to spot the 清真 sign, mosques and prayer, Ramadan, and the most Muslim-friendly regions.</description><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>China for Senior Travellers: Pace, Access &amp; Practical Tips</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/china-for-seniors/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/china-for-seniors/</guid><description>China is a wonderful, safe destination for older travellers — with a little planning around pace, accessibility, altitude and toilets. Here is how to do it comfortably.</description><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Solo Female Travel in China: Safety &amp; Practical Tips</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/china-for-solo-female-travellers/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/china-for-solo-female-travellers/</guid><description>China is one of the safest countries for solo female travellers. An honest guide to safety, what to expect, and the practical tips that make a solo trip smooth.</description><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>How to Use China&apos;s High-Speed Trains (Foreigner&apos;s Guide)</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/china-high-speed-rail-guide/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/china-high-speed-rail-guide/</guid><description>Booking tickets, finding your platform, and riding China’s bullet trains as a foreigner.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>China’s Natural Wonders: Mountains, Karst &amp; Pandas</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/china-nature-highlights/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/china-nature-highlights/</guid><description>The most spectacular natural landscapes in China and how to visit them — from Zhangjiajie’s pillars to Guilin’s karst and Chengdu’s pandas.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>What to Pack for China: A Minimalist Practical Checklist</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/china-packing-list/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/china-packing-list/</guid><description>A no-nonsense packing checklist for a trip to China, season by season.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Who Runs China Travel? An Insider’s Guide to the Players</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/china-tourism-industry-insider/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/china-tourism-industry-insider/</guid><description>A behind-the-scenes look at the companies that power Chinese tourism — the OTAs, hotel groups, airlines and super-apps — and what it means for your trip.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Common Mistakes Foreigners Make in China (and How to Avoid Them)</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/china-travel-mistakes-to-avoid/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/china-travel-mistakes-to-avoid/</guid><description>Avoid the rookie errors that trip up first-time visitors to China.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>China with a Baby or Kids: A Practical Family Guide</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/china-travel-with-a-baby/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/china-travel-with-a-baby/</guid><description>Travelling China with a baby or young children — strollers vs carriers, formula and diapers, nursing rooms, kid-friendly food, transport and the best attractions.</description><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Souvenirs &amp; Memories: Wrapping Up Your China Trip</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/china-trip-recap-souvenirs/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/china-trip-recap-souvenirs/</guid><description>The best souvenirs to bring home and how to keep your China memories alive.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Your Complete China Trip Roadmap: From Planning to Departure</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/china-trip-roadmap-planning-to-departure/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/china-trip-roadmap-planning-to-departure/</guid><description>A step-by-step summary of a China trip — every stage from planning and visas through to departure and tax refunds, with links to the detailed guides.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>All 60 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in China, Ranked</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/china-unesco-world-heritage-sites/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/china-unesco-world-heritage-sites/</guid><description>The complete list of China&apos;s 60 UNESCO World Heritage Sites — name, category, province and a popularity rating to help you decide which are must-sees and which are for enthusiasts.</description><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>China Visa Requirements by Nationality (2026 Guide)</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/china-visa-requirements-by-nationality/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/china-visa-requirements-by-nationality/</guid><description>Who needs a visa for China, who qualifies for visa-free entry, and how to apply without the stress.</description><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>China’s Ancient Towns: Pingyao, Lijiang &amp; Water Towns</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/chinese-ancient-towns/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/chinese-ancient-towns/</guid><description>The best preserved ancient towns in China — Pingyao’s walls, Lijiang’s canals and the Jiangnan water towns near Shanghai.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>A Beginner&apos;s Guide to Chinese Regional Food</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/chinese-food-guide-for-foreigners/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/chinese-food-guide-for-foreigners/</guid><description>An introduction to China’s regional cuisines and what to order in each.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Creative Chinese Fusion Dining: Fine Dining to Bistros</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/chinese-fusion-fine-dining/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/chinese-fusion-fine-dining/</guid><description>China&apos;s creative dining scene is booming — from avant-garde tasting menus to Shanghai&apos;s Chinese-Western fusion bistros. What it is, the spots to know, and how to book.</description><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Chinese Opera &amp; Performance: Peking Opera, Acrobatics &amp; More</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/chinese-opera-performance/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/chinese-opera-performance/</guid><description>A guide to China’s traditional performing arts — Peking opera, acrobatics, kung fu and Sichuan face-changing, and where to see them.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Chinese Street Food: What to Eat at the Night Market</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/chinese-street-food/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/chinese-street-food/</guid><description>A guide to China’s street food — jianbing, baozi, skewers, stinky tofu and more, plus how to eat safely.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Chinese Tea Culture: Tea Houses, Ceremonies &amp; Where to Try It</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/chinese-tea-culture/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/chinese-tea-culture/</guid><description>An introduction to China’s tea culture — the main types of tea, the gongfu ceremony, and the best places to experience it.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Common Tourist Scams in China — and How to Avoid Them</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/common-scams-in-china-and-how-to-avoid-them/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/common-scams-in-china-and-how-to-avoid-them/</guid><description>China is very safe, but a handful of tourist scams target foreigners around stations, taxis and big sights. Here are the classics and the simple habits that beat them all.</description><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Best Cultural Experiences in China: Tea, Opera &amp; More</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/cultural-experiences-in-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/cultural-experiences-in-china/</guid><description>Memorable cultural experiences to book, from tea ceremonies to cooking classes.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Culture Shock in China: What to Be Prepared For</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/culture-shock-china-be-prepared/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/culture-shock-china-be-prepared/</guid><description>The everyday culture shocks first-time visitors to China meet — toilets, staring, crowds, spitting and more — and how to take them in stride.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Dental Care &amp; Health Check-ups in China for Visitors</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/dental-health-checkups-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/dental-health-checkups-china/</guid><description>Why travellers get dental work and health screenings in China — quality, costs, and how to book safely.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Didi for Foreigners: China&apos;s Uber, Explained</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/didi-guide-for-foreigners/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/didi-guide-for-foreigners/</guid><description>How to set up and use Didi, China’s ride-hailing app, as a foreign visitor.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Booking Domestic Flights in China</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/domestic-flights-in-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/domestic-flights-in-china/</guid><description>How to book and fly domestic routes within China as a foreign traveller.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>The Forbidden City: Visiting Beijing’s Imperial Palace</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/forbidden-city/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/forbidden-city/</guid><description>How to visit the Forbidden City — tickets, timing, what to see, and tips for China’s grandest historical site.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Get a Feel for China Before You Go: Films, Shows, Games &amp; Books</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/get-a-feel-for-china-before-you-go/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/get-a-feel-for-china-before-you-go/</guid><description>The best films, documentaries, a video game and books to soak up Chinese culture, food and history before your trip — from A Bite of China to Black Myth: Wukong.</description><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Getting Help in English in China: Who to Ask When You&apos;re Stuck</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/getting-help-in-english-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/getting-help-in-english-china/</guid><description>Where foreigners can find English-speaking help in China — airport volunteers, hotel staff, the police and tourist hotlines — and why it is easiest in the big cities.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Seeing Giant Pandas in Chengdu</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/giant-pandas-chengdu/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/giant-pandas-chengdu/</guid><description>Where and how to see giant pandas in China — the Chengdu breeding base, best times to visit, and tips for the perfect panda morning.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Glasses &amp; Optical in China: Cheap, Fast Eyewear</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/glasses-optical-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/glasses-optical-china/</guid><description>How to get prescription glasses in China — often made within an hour for a fraction of home prices.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>The Great Wall of China: Which Section to Visit</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/great-wall-of-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/great-wall-of-china/</guid><description>A practical guide to visiting the Great Wall near Beijing — Mutianyu vs Badaling vs Jinshanling, and how to get there.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Guangzhou in 1–3 Days: A Self-Guided Itinerary</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/guangzhou-itinerary/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/guangzhou-itinerary/</guid><description>Cantonese food, colonial islands and southern energy — your day-by-day plan for Guangzhou.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Guilin &amp; Yangshuo: China’s Iconic Karst Scenery</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/guilin-yangshuo/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/guilin-yangshuo/</guid><description>The dreamy limestone hills and the Li River between Guilin and Yangshuo — how to cruise, cycle and see the famous ¥20-note view.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Hainan Duty-Free: Luxury Bargains on China’s Tropical Island</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/hainan-duty-free/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/hainan-duty-free/</guid><description>How Hainan’s offshore duty-free shopping works — luxury cosmetics and brands at 20–40% off, and who can use it.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Hangzhou in 1–3 Days: A Self-Guided Itinerary</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/hangzhou-itinerary/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/hangzhou-itinerary/</guid><description>West Lake, tea plantations and classical gardens — your day-by-day plan for Hangzhou.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Healthcare &amp; Medical Tourism in China: A Visitor’s Guide</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/healthcare-and-medical-tourism-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/healthcare-and-medical-tourism-china/</guid><description>What to expect from healthcare in China as a visitor — emergencies, pharmacies, and the affordable dental, check-ups and TCM that draw medical tourists.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>How Much Does a China Trip Cost? Real Prices &amp; Daily Budgets</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/how-much-does-a-china-trip-cost/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/how-much-does-a-china-trip-cost/</guid><description>A clear breakdown of what a China trip actually costs — daily budgets for every style, real prices for meals, transport, hotels and attractions, and how to save.</description><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>How to Find Halal Food in China</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/how-to-find-halal-food-in-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/how-to-find-halal-food-in-china/</guid><description>A practical guide to eating halal in China — spotting the 清真 sign, the best halal cuisines, dishes to order, key phrases and useful apps.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>How to Order Food in China Without Speaking Chinese</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/how-to-order-food-without-chinese/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/how-to-order-food-without-chinese/</guid><description>Practical tricks for ordering in restaurants when you don’t speak the language.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Best VPN for China in 2026: What Actually Works</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/how-to-use-vpn-in-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/how-to-use-vpn-in-china/</guid><description>The VPNs that reliably get past the Great Firewall, plus how to set one up before you arrive.</description><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Huangshan (Yellow Mountain): Peaks Above the Clouds</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/huangshan-yellow-mountain/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/huangshan-yellow-mountain/</guid><description>How to visit Huangshan — China’s most famous mountain, known for granite peaks, twisted pines and a sea of clouds at sunrise.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Is China Safe for Tourists? An Honest Guide</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/is-china-safe-for-tourists/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/is-china-safe-for-tourists/</guid><description>What to expect around safety, scams, and staying healthy as a foreign visitor in China.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Jiangnan Cuisine: The Sweet, Refined Food of the East</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/jiangnan-cuisine/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/jiangnan-cuisine/</guid><description>A guide to Jiangnan cuisine — Shanghai, Hangzhou and Suzhou cooking, from soup dumplings to red-braised pork.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Jiuzhaigou: China’s Valley of Turquoise Lakes</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/jiuzhaigou/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/jiuzhaigou/</guid><description>A guide to Jiuzhaigou — the Tibetan valley of multicoloured lakes, waterfalls and snow peaks in northern Sichuan.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>LGBTQ+ Travel in China: What to Know Before You Go</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/lgbt-travel-in-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/lgbt-travel-in-china/</guid><description>An honest, up-to-date guide for LGBTQ+ visitors to China — the legal situation, how safe it is, social attitudes, the scene in big cities, and practical tips.</description><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Longji Rice Terraces: The Dragon’s Backbone</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/longji-rice-terraces/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/longji-rice-terraces/</guid><description>A guide to the Longji (Longsheng) rice terraces near Guilin — sculpted hillsides, ethnic villages and the best viewpoints.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Markets &amp; Bargaining in China: How to Haggle Like a Local</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/markets-bargaining-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/markets-bargaining-china/</guid><description>A guide to shopping China’s markets — silk, pearls, souvenirs and more — and how to bargain without stress.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Michelin Restaurants in China: A City-by-City Guide</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/michelin-restaurants-in-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/michelin-restaurants-in-china/</guid><description>Where to find Michelin-rated dining across mainland China — which cities are covered, the three-star tables, and the budget-friendly Bib Gourmand gems, with tips on booking.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Must-Have Apps for Travelling in China</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/must-have-apps-for-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/must-have-apps-for-china/</guid><description>The essential apps for maps, translation, taxis, and payments in China.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>My Favourite Chinese Dish: Xiaolongbao &amp; Where to Eat</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/my-favourite-chinese-dishes/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/my-favourite-chinese-dishes/</guid><description>Shanghai soup dumplings explained — how to eat them without burning yourself, and my favourite places in Shanghai to find the best xiaolongbao.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>My Favourite City in China: Shanghai (and Where to Go Nearby)</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/my-favourite-city-in-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/my-favourite-city-in-china/</guid><description>Why Shanghai is the city I keep returning to — what to see, and the best weekend and day trips within an hour or two by high-speed rail.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>My Favourite Cultural Experience in China: Yue Opera</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/my-favourite-cultural-experiences-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/my-favourite-cultural-experiences-china/</guid><description>Yue opera (越剧) and the famous Zhejiang Xiaobaihua troupe — China&apos;s all-female opera tradition, often called the Chinese Takarazuka. Why I love it and how to see a show.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>My Favourite Hidden Gem in China: Taizhou, Zhejiang</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/my-favourite-hidden-gems-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/my-favourite-hidden-gems-china/</guid><description>Taizhou (台州) is a coastal Zhejiang region almost no foreign tourist visits — ancient walls, sacred mountains, dramatic cliffs and superb seafood. Here is why I love it.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>My Recommended Apps, Bookings &amp; Services for China</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/my-recommended-tools-and-services-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/my-recommended-tools-and-services-china/</guid><description>The tools and services I personally recommend for a smooth China trip — eSIM, VPN, trains, hotels, tours, insurance and visa help, all in one place.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Where Next? Asian Destinations Within 5 Hours of China</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/next-destinations-from-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/next-destinations-from-china/</guid><description>Use China as a launchpad — an overview of where Chinese airlines fly across Asia within about five hours, from Tokyo to Bangkok.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Northern Chinese Cuisine: Peking Duck, Noodles &amp; Dumplings</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/northern-chinese-cuisine/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/northern-chinese-cuisine/</guid><description>A guide to northern Chinese food — Peking duck, hand-pulled noodles, dumplings, and hearty, affordable Dongbei (Northeastern) home cooking.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>How Foreigners Pay in China: Alipay &amp; WeChat Pay Setup</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/payment-methods-in-china-for-foreigners/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/payment-methods-in-china-for-foreigners/</guid><description>China is nearly cashless. Here is how to set up Alipay and WeChat Pay with a foreign card before you go.</description><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Can Foreigners Rent a Car in China? Rules &amp; Alternatives</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/renting-a-car-in-china-as-a-foreigner/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/renting-a-car-in-china-as-a-foreigner/</guid><description>Foreign driving licenses and IDPs are not valid in China — here is how the temporary driving permit works, whether self-driving is worth it, and the alternatives that usually beat renting.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Roaming vs eSIM vs Local SIM in China: Which to Choose</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/roaming-esim-sim-card-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/roaming-esim-sim-card-china/</guid><description>The three ways to get online in China compared — international roaming, a travel eSIM, or a local SIM card — including which ones bypass the Great Firewall.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Seasonal Must-Eat Foods in China: What to Eat, and When</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/seasonal-must-eat-foods-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/seasonal-must-eat-foods-china/</guid><description>Chinese food is deeply seasonal — hairy crab in autumn, qingtuan and yanduxian in spring, zongzi in early summer. A season-by-season guide to timing your trip around the right delicacy.</description><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Self-Guided vs Package Tour in China: Which to Pick?</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/self-guided-vs-package-tour-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/self-guided-vs-package-tour-china/</guid><description>An honest comparison of travelling China independently versus on an organised tour — cost, freedom, language, and who each suits.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Shanghai in 1–3 Days: A Self-Guided Itinerary</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/shanghai-itinerary/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/shanghai-itinerary/</guid><description>Skyline, colonial charm and water towns — a practical day-by-day plan for Shanghai.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Shopping in China: Markets, Malls, Tech &amp; Duty-Free</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/shopping-in-china-guide/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/shopping-in-china-guide/</guid><description>How to shop in China — from haggling in markets to Shenzhen tech, luxury malls and Hainan duty-free, plus paying, tax refunds and getting it home.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Sichuan Cuisine: Bold, Numbing-Spicy &amp; Unmissable</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/sichuan-cuisine/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/sichuan-cuisine/</guid><description>A guide to Sichuan food — the málà tingle, hotpot, mapo tofu and what to order, plus where to eat it.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Staying Healthy in China: Water, Food, Air &amp; What to Pack</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/staying-healthy-in-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/staying-healthy-in-china/</guid><description>How to stay healthy on a China trip — tap water, food safety, air quality, a travel medical kit, pharmacies, and what to do if you get sick.</description><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Tech &amp; Electronics Shopping in China: Shenzhen &amp; Beyond</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/tech-electronics-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/tech-electronics-china/</guid><description>Where to buy gadgets and electronics in China — Shenzhen’s Huaqiangbei, what to know about prices, warranties and bargaining.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>The Terracotta Warriors: Xi’an’s Buried Army</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/terracotta-warriors/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/terracotta-warriors/</guid><description>A guide to visiting the Terracotta Army near Xi’an — what to see, how to get there, and tips for one of the world’s great archaeological wonders.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>20 Essential China Travel Tips for First-Timers</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/top-china-travel-tips-first-timers/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/top-china-travel-tips-first-timers/</guid><description>The most important things to know before your first trip to China, from internet to etiquette.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Traditional Chinese Medicine: Acupuncture, Cupping &amp; Herbs</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/traditional-chinese-medicine/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/traditional-chinese-medicine/</guid><description>An introduction to experiencing Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a visitor — acupuncture, cupping, massage and where to try it.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Travel China with Confidence: A First-Timer&apos;s Overview</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/travel-china-with-confidence/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/travel-china-with-confidence/</guid><description>Nervous about your first trip to China? A warm, plain-English overview of everything you need — and links to the guides that handle each part for you.</description><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Do You Need Travel Insurance for China?</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/travel-insurance-for-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/travel-insurance-for-china/</guid><description>Whether travel insurance is worth it for China, and what to look for in a policy.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Travelling in China as a Vegetarian (or Vegan)</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/travelling-in-china-as-vegetarian/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/travelling-in-china-as-vegetarian/</guid><description>How to eat well as a vegetarian or vegan in China — the dishes to order, the hidden meat traps, key phrases and handy apps.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>How to Use Public Toilets in China: What to Expect</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/using-public-toilets-in-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/using-public-toilets-in-china/</guid><description>Squat vs Western toilets, bringing your own tissues, finding a clean restroom, and the etiquette every first-time visitor to China should know.</description><pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>How to Use the Metro in Chinese Cities</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/using-the-metro-in-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/using-the-metro-in-china/</guid><description>Buying tickets, paying by phone, and navigating China’s metro systems in English.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>How to Claim Your VAT Tax Refund in China</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/vat-tax-refund-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/vat-tax-refund-china/</guid><description>Who qualifies for China’s tourist VAT refund and how to claim it at the airport.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>The Weirdest Food in China: Don&apos;t Try Unless You&apos;re Ready</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/weirdest-food-in-china/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/weirdest-food-in-china/</guid><description>China&apos;s most challenging foods for adventurous eaters — from century eggs and stinky tofu to scorpions and live shrimp. A light-hearted dare for the brave (and a warning for the squeamish).</description><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Xiamen in 1–3 Days: A Self-Guided Itinerary</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/xiamen-itinerary/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/xiamen-itinerary/</guid><description>Gulangyu Island, seafront temples and laid-back island life — your day-by-day plan for Xiamen.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Xinjiang Cuisine: Smoky, Central Asian Flavours</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/xinjiang-cuisine/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/xinjiang-cuisine/</guid><description>A guide to Xinjiang food — cumin lamb skewers, big-plate chicken and hand-pulled noodles from China’s Muslim northwest.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Zhangjiajie: The Real-Life Avatar Mountains</title><link>https://journey2east.com/blog/zhangjiajie/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">https://journey2east.com/blog/zhangjiajie/</guid><description>How to visit Zhangjiajie — the towering sandstone pillars that inspired Avatar — with tips on the park, glass bridge and best time to go.</description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item></channel></rss>