China Rail Tours & Holidays

As a British citizen visiting China, you'll need a valid passport with an expiry date of more than six months from your arrival date. Additionally, you will need a visa to visit mainland China. The visa requirements for Hong Kong differ. It is recommended that you check with the Chinese embassy or consulate before your trip.

China's time zone is called China Standard Time and is UTC+8.

Make sure you pack a power adaptor that works with Type A and I outlets for your time in China. Typically, 220V, 50hz AC electricity is used nationwide; however, some hotels in major cities offer 110V and 220V outlets.

The official currency of China is the Renminbi (RMB), issued by the People's Bank of China. You will often see prices in the Chinese Yuan (CNY), which is a denomination of the Renminbi. Thinking of it in terms of pounds sterling, Renminbi = Sterling, Yuan = Pound.

While you can exchange your money at a bank on arrival, the easiest way to obtain your Yuan is at an ATM. Keep in mind that foreign ATM fees may apply, so plan accordingly to maximize your transactions. You can exchange any leftover Yuan for GPB or USD when you depart, though exchange fees do apply.

You can also use a credit card in China - but typically only in large cities. The technology is expanding, but cash is still preferred in many areas. Notify your credit card company before travelling and ask about any foreign transaction fees.

China is a year-round destination with appeals spanning all seasons; however, spring and autumn travel comes with significant benefits. These are times of year when the weather is mild - and typically dry - for comfortable explorations. Traveling in spring allows you to see the fruit trees and gardens as they begin to blossom to life, whereas autumn's colors add a cosy complement to the nation's ancient sites. Keep in mind that because China is such a vast nation with six climate zones, temperatures and conditions can vary from one region to the next.

Learning basic Mandarin Chinese phrases can assist you with your travels. You may encounter English speakers in tourist destinations and large cities, but it is not commonly spoken in China. While having a language translation app is an invaluable tool, the following are a few phrases to get you started:

• Nǐ hǎo - hello Zàijiàn - goodbye
• Qǐngwèn - excuse me (to get attention)
• Wǒ bù dǒng - I don't understand
• … zài nǎlǐ? - Where is?
• Xǐshǒujiān zài nǎlǐ? - Where is the bathroom?
• Fàndiàn - hotel

China's urban centres feature expansive and efficient public transportation options, including buses, high-speed trains and Metro rail service. These trains connect up to 47 cities and travel at speeds of 160km/h, while the high-speed bullet trains can reach up to 350 km/h.

China is generally considered safe for tourists, both in the countryside and in major cities. However, it's always advisable to take standard precautions, be aware of your surroundings, and leave any valuables in your hotel's safe when one is available.

From ancient attractions to incredible cities, China's offerings are as diverse as the nation itself. Soak up history while visiting the Great Wall of China, Beijing's Forbidden City and the Terracotta Army in Xi'an. Explore the nation's unique wildlife at Chengdu's research centre, or find yourself wrapped in timeless culture and nature's beauty while following the Yangtze river.

Tipping is not a common practice in China and may even be considered rude or embarrassing. That said, tipping tour guides and vehicle drivers is encouraged - and often expected - so keep a small amount of cash on you for these purposes.

Do - Greet locals with a gentle handshake (too firm is considered aggressive) and a nod rather than a bow

Do - Tour temples and monasteries in a clockwise fashion

Do - Remove your hat before entering a religious establishment

Do - Join in on toasts at restaurants

Don't - Engage in physical contact like hugging upon meeting someone; it can make the Chinese uncomfortable

Don't - Tap your bowl with your chopsticks or place them upright in your bowl

Don't - Use your personal spoon or chopsticks when sharing a dish

Don't - Photograph Chinese citizens - especially elders - without permission, and be prepared to pay for their picture

Chinese cuisine is incredibly diverse and varies by region, yet universally uses fresh, local ingredients. You will not find many frozen or canned ingredients; likewise, you will not find raw or uncooked components. The main staples of Chinese cuisine are meats, vegetables, fruits and grains with very little dairy. Rice and noodle dishes are staples.

While you may be able to find vegan options in major cities, they are less common in smaller towns and villages. Vegetarian diets are easier to accommodate; however, some restaurants will still include eggs or fish, so be sure to ask about the ingredients if there is any concern.

The water in China is not safe to drink, and it is recommended that you drink only from sealed bottles purchased from a market, restaurant or your hotel. Further, it is wise to brush your teeth with bottled water. The water used for tea is boiled and is generally considered safe for consumption.

In many places throughout China - especially outside of major cities and tourist attractions - the facilities are traditional squat toilets. Your Tour Manager and local guide will make an effort to find Western toilets when they are available.

Great Rail Journeys is a market leader when it comes to small group tours. We're proud of being pioneers in our approach to group sizes and have become the leading operator for escorted holidays. Our group sizes vary between tours, but are our ranges are usually a good indicator of what to expect.

For our Discoveries range, you'll be in groups with an average of 30-35 travellers and a maximum of 40. If opting for our Classic collection, you'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers and a maximum of 30*. Our Landmark holidays are where you'll find our smallest group sizes, starting from as low as 16 travellers and an average of 22, to a maximum of 30.

*Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.

Combining excellent value for money with an itinerary of exciting excursions that capture the essence of this captivating country, an escorted tour of China with Great Rail Journeys offers an unforgettable introduction to the 'Land of the Dragon'. We make your adventure in China as enjoyable and worry-free as possible. The cost of your rail holiday includes all flights and other travel costs, hotel accommodation and a generous selection of meals, a programme of sightseeing tours, excursions and activities and the services of our professional and knowledgeable Tour Manager throughout your visit.

As relaxing in good accommodation is an important aspect of your train holiday in China we take care to choose those hotels which score highly for the convenience of their location and the quality of service and guest facilities they provide. On many occasions we'll pick reputable family-run hotels for the additional value, service and informal atmosphere they offer.