What are some hidden gems to explore in China?

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, consider exploring the ancient villages of Xidi and Hongcun in Anhui province, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. These villages showcase remarkably preserved traditional architecture. Another hidden gem is the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Hunan province, inspiration for the floating mountains in the film Avatar. Its towering sandstone pillars and unique landscape are breathtaking.

Which airport should you arrive at in China?

It depends entirely on your destination within China. Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) are the two largest and best-connected, serving as major hubs for international flights. However, for other regions, you'll want to check flights into airports closer to your final destination to minimise travel time.

What is generally accepted for payment in China, cash or card?

While cash is still used, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas, mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are overwhelmingly dominant. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger cities and hotels, but mobile payment is far more prevalent and convenient.

How would you describe the safety of road conditions and driving habits in China?

Road conditions vary significantly across China. Major highways are generally well-maintained, but smaller roads in rural areas can be less developed. Driving habits can be quite different from what many international travellers are used to, often involving heavy traffic and a less structured approach to lane discipline. It's generally advisable to use public transport or ride-hailing services rather than driving yourself, particularly in larger cities.

What steps should you take if your passport goes missing in China?

Immediately report the loss to the nearest police station. Obtain a police report, which is crucial for applying for an emergency passport or travel document from your embassy or consulate. Contact your embassy or consulate immediately for assistance with obtaining replacement travel documents.

Where should you spend a week to experience the best of China?

A week allows for a good overview. A possible itinerary could combine Beijing, for its historical sites like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, with Xi'an, home to the Terracotta Army, allowing you to experience both northern and central China's highlights.

Where should you spend a weekend in China?

For a vibrant city break, Shanghai offers a compelling mix of modern skyscrapers, traditional architecture like the Yuyuan Garden, and a bustling nightlife. Alternatively, the ancient city of Pingyao, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a peaceful escape with its well-preserved city walls and historical streets.

What festivals in China are highly recommended for visitors?

The Spring Festival (Lunar New Year) is a spectacular event, though it's essential to book well in advance. The Mid-Autumn Festival, celebrated with mooncakes and family gatherings, offers a more intimate cultural experience. The Lantern Festival, marking the end of the Spring Festival celebrations, is also visually stunning.

Does China have Uber or comparable ride-hailing services?

While Uber isn't available in mainland China, there are several popular and widely used local alternatives, such as Didi Chuxing, which offers a range of services comparable to Uber and operates across the country.

What’s the top spot in China for favourable weather conditions?

This depends on the time of year, but Yunnan province in southwest China generally enjoys a mild climate year-round. Cities like Kunming are known for their pleasant weather and spring-like conditions throughout much of the year.

China unusual places to stay

9.8 5 reviews

Quo Vadis Farm

farm, Māngwa

Quo Vadis Farm is a recently renovated farmhouse located in Māngwa, just 22 miles from Tiger Hill and 20 miles from Ghum Monastery, offering easy access to these popular attractions. The farm stay consistently receives excellent ratings for cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
The farmhouse features a shared lounge and garden, providing ample space for relaxation and socialising. Guests can enjoy stunning mountain views from the patio and sun terrace, while amenities include free Wi-Fi, private parking, and private bathrooms with all the essentials.

No reviews

Rongong Farmstay By Stayapart

farm, Māngwa

Rongong Farmstay by StayApart is situated in Māngwa, a short distance from popular attractions like Tiger Hill and Ghum Monastery, offering a peaceful retreat amidst the natural beauty of the region. The farm stay provides a comfortable and private setting for travellers seeking a tranquil escape.
This charming property features a garden and terrace, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the fresh air. Guests can also benefit from amenities such as private parking, Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms.

9.5 4 reviews

Monratino The Orange Farmstay - Darjeeling

farm, Takdāh

Monratino The Orange Farmstay offers a peaceful rural retreat in Takdah, West Bengal, conveniently located within 27-35 km of attractions including Ghoom Monastery, the Tibetan Buddhist Monastery, and Happy Valley Tea Estate.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom cottage provides a tranquil escape for couples or families, featuring private bathroom facilities and easy access to local transport for exploring Darjeeling's sights.

No reviews

Cinchonna Farmstay

farm, Darjeeling

This Cinchonna Farmstay is situated in Darjeeling, 24 kilometres from Ghum Monastery and 26 kilometres from the Tibetan Buddhist Monastery.
This 216 square metre farm offers accommodation for up to five guests with one bedroom and one bathroom, featuring air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a garden, balcony, bar, and private parking, with breakfast options including continental, Asian, and vegetarian.

10 32 reviews

Stuv's Homestay (1 Bhk) Home That Feels Yours

bungalow

This Ranchi flat offers a familiar and warm atmosphere, featuring one bedroom and one bathroom, with a guest capacity of three, providing comforts akin to home for short or long stays.
Conveniently located in Ranchi, this apartment provides a sense of belonging with personalized shared spaces and quiet corners, and includes internet, a kitchen, and parking.

10 1 review

Rock Garden Superview Bungalow 2

cabin

This secluded bungalow in Tả Van offers panoramic views of the Mường Hoa Valley, providing an independent retreat close to the ethnic culture and trekking routes of the Sapa region.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom cabin accommodates two guests and features air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a swimming pool, set within private garden grounds for an authentic and tranquil experience.

10 1 review

Bliss Wooden Bungalow Valley View

cabin

This secluded wooden bungalow offers a peaceful village atmosphere surrounded by mountains and rice terraces, located 14 kilometres from Sapa town. The accommodation features one bedroom and one bathroom, sleeping up to two guests, with a kitchen including a fridge, garden, parking, and reliable internet.

No reviews

Chimney Farmstay

chalet, Kurseong

Chimney Farmstay is located in Kurseong, just 16 miles from the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and 15 miles from Tiger Hill, offering a peaceful escape in the hills. The chalet has received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall user experience.
The property features a garden and terrace with an outdoor fireplace, ideal for relaxation. Guests can enjoy a snack bar, room service, and free private parking, making it a convenient and comfortable stay.

9.8 57 reviews

Deluxe Cozy Nature Bungalow

bungalow

This Sa Pa bungalow, location currently unspecified, offers a peaceful retreat for two, ideal for those seeking a quiet escape from the town centre.
The single-bedroom, single-bathroom cottage provides a simple base for exploring Sa Pa's attractions; further details regarding size, amenities, and proximity to specific landmarks are unavailable.

9.4 288 reviews

City Centre House With Lovely Garden

bungalow

This bungalow is situated in Amritsar, just 1km from the city centre, offering easy access to the Golden Temple and other key attractions. The property enjoys excellent guest, location and cleanliness ratings, making it a popular choice for travellers.
This spacious home has four bedrooms, comfortably accommodating up to 10 guests. The bungalow features a well-equipped kitchen, a private garden, and a veranda, ideal for relaxing after a day exploring Amritsar.

9.5 124 reviews

The Sylvan Vistas Luxury 3 Bhk Apartment

chalet

This charming chalet is situated in Old Manali, a short walk from Hadimba Temple, Mall Road, and the heart of the old town, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling centre. The property has consistently received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The chalet is a spacious duplex with three bedrooms and three bathrooms, comfortably accommodating up to six guests. Guests can enjoy a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge and microwave, a private garden, and convenient parking, as well as stunning mountain views from the windows and balconies.

No reviews

Dhim

farm, Mangpu

This farm stay in Mangpu is located 25.7 to 28.9 kilometres from Ghum Monastery, the Tibetan Buddhist Monastery, and Tiger Hill.
This 23 square metre dwelling accommodates up to three guests in one bedroom and features a terrace, garden, bar, and complimentary Wi-Fi, with breakfast served daily.

Best family friendly China unique stays

Among the 26465 accommodations in China, here are the 4 best family friendly unique accommodations

No reviews

The Tranquil Farm Stay

farm, Thode

The Tranquil Farm Stay is located in Thode, just 117 kilometres from Bagdogra International Airport, offering a peaceful retreat in the countryside.
The property features a one-bedroom cottage with a private bathroom, suitable for up to two guests. Enjoy a private terrace, a garden, mountain views, and an outdoor fireplace, along with opportunities for fishing and hiking in the surrounding area.

9.0 2 reviews

Mandarin Resort - Kaluk

farm, Rinchingpong

Vamoose Mandarin Village Resort is located in Rinchingpong, a village in East Sikkim district, 130 kilometres from Bagdogra International Airport and offers stunning mountain views. The resort has received very good user and cleanliness ratings and an excellent location rating.
Each unit at the resort has a private entrance and comes with comfortable amenities such as a desk, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, bed linen, and towels. Guests can enjoy a well-equipped kitchen with a microwave, a relaxing seating area, a terrace or balcony, and a garden, as well as free parking and a bar.

9.8 124 reviews

Dream Adventure Mongolia

yurt

Dream Adventure Mongolia, a traditional Mongolian ger camp, is situated in Terelj National Park, approximately 120 kilometres from Ulaanbaatar.
The camp offers a unique opportunity to experience nomadic life, with each ger featuring a sauna, outdoor awning, shower, and outhouse, as well as access to horseback riding, hiking, and cultural homestays.

10 8 reviews

The Happy Bungalow In The Happy Forest!

cabin

This authentic Red Dao bungalow is located in the Giang Ta Chai Dao ethnic village, 14 kilometres from Sapa town, offering a unique tribal design with a sturdy wooden frame and red bricks.
This family-friendly lodge accommodates up to four guests in one bedroom and a mezzanine, featuring a kitchen with fridge and freezer, a garden, and proximity to rice terraces, bamboo forests, and a waterfall, with opportunities for guests to join hosts in meal preparation.

Top cities

Best China unique stays with a pool

10 8 reviews

Bungalow Ven Hồ Tựa Núi

farm

Xuan Son Lakeside Bungalow is located by Ninh Binh Lake in Ninh Binh, Vietnam, offering picturesque lakeside views and a tranquil natural setting.
This farm accommodation provides comfortable rooms with lake views, air conditioning, an on-site restaurant, and a spacious infinity pool, accommodating up to three guests with two bathrooms and one bedroom.

10 1 review

The Edge Villa And Retreat: Modern Luxury Escape

cabin

This newly built modern villa in Pokhara, Gandaki Province, Nepal, offers a luxurious escape with 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom, accommodating up to 2 guests, and features a garden, Jacuzzi, swimming pool, and parking.
Enjoy a stylish and calm retreat with air conditioning and internet, ideal for travellers seeking a high-end experience with stunning views and easy access to city attractions.

Frequently asked questions about unique stays in China

What are some hidden gems to explore in China?
For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, consider exploring the ancient villages of Xidi and Hongcun in Anhui province, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. These villages showcase remarkably preserved traditional architecture. Another hidden gem is the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Hunan province, inspiration for the floating mountains in the film Avatar. Its towering sandstone pillars and unique landscape are breathtaking.
Which airport should you arrive at in China?
It depends entirely on your destination within China. Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) are the two largest and best-connected, serving as major hubs for international flights. However, for other regions, you'll want to check flights into airports closer to your final destination to minimise travel time.
What is generally accepted for payment in China, cash or card?
While cash is still used, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas, mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are overwhelmingly dominant. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger cities and hotels, but mobile payment is far more prevalent and convenient.
How would you describe the safety of road conditions and driving habits in China?
Road conditions vary significantly across China. Major highways are generally well-maintained, but smaller roads in rural areas can be less developed. Driving habits can be quite different from what many international travellers are used to, often involving heavy traffic and a less structured approach to lane discipline. It's generally advisable to use public transport or ride-hailing services rather than driving yourself, particularly in larger cities.
What steps should you take if your passport goes missing in China?
Immediately report the loss to the nearest police station. Obtain a police report, which is crucial for applying for an emergency passport or travel document from your embassy or consulate. Contact your embassy or consulate immediately for assistance with obtaining replacement travel documents.
Where should you spend a week to experience the best of China?
A week allows for a good overview. A possible itinerary could combine Beijing, for its historical sites like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, with Xi'an, home to the Terracotta Army, allowing you to experience both northern and central China's highlights.
Where should you spend a weekend in China?
For a vibrant city break, Shanghai offers a compelling mix of modern skyscrapers, traditional architecture like the Yuyuan Garden, and a bustling nightlife. Alternatively, the ancient city of Pingyao, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a peaceful escape with its well-preserved city walls and historical streets.
What festivals in China are highly recommended for visitors?
The Spring Festival (Lunar New Year) is a spectacular event, though it's essential to book well in advance. The Mid-Autumn Festival, celebrated with mooncakes and family gatherings, offers a more intimate cultural experience. The Lantern Festival, marking the end of the Spring Festival celebrations, is also visually stunning.
Does China have Uber or comparable ride-hailing services?
While Uber isn't available in mainland China, there are several popular and widely used local alternatives, such as Didi Chuxing, which offers a range of services comparable to Uber and operates across the country.
What’s the top spot in China for favourable weather conditions?
This depends on the time of year, but Yunnan province in southwest China generally enjoys a mild climate year-round. Cities like Kunming are known for their pleasant weather and spring-like conditions throughout much of the year.

Best China unusual places with a garden

No reviews

Yes Homes Naranga Farmstay

farm, Pedong

Naranga Farmstay is located in Pedong, approximately 55 kilometres from Pakyong Airport, offering convenient access to local attractions and outdoor activities within the Pedong region.
This farm accommodation provides 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom, featuring a terrace with mountain views, a garden, and parking, with complimentary toiletries and reception staff fluent in English and Hindi.

No reviews

Green Wings Homestays By Stayapart , Zoom , West Sikkim

farm, Naya Bāzār

Green Wings Homestays, a rural retreat in Naya Bazar, West Sikkim, is situated approximately 34-47km from attractions including the Happy Valley Tea Estate, Mahakal Temple, and the Japanese Peace Pagoda.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom farmhouse offers accommodation for up to seven guests, featuring a garden, terrace, parking, and proximity to local amenities.

9.9 20 reviews

Palighar Farmstay

farm, Kalimpong

PaliGhar Farmstay is located in Kalimpong, West Bengal, approximately 80 kilometres from Bagdogra International Airport. The farm has received excellent ratings for cleanliness and user experience, with a very good location rating.
The farm stay offers a 27 square metre one-bedroom cottage with a private bathroom, suitable for two guests. You can enjoy stunning garden views from the patio, relax by the outdoor fireplace, or make use of the free Wi-Fi, parking and on-site restaurant.

The widest selection of unusual accommodations in China

26465 Unique places to stay in China

Quo Vadis Farm

Rongong Farmstay By Stayapart

Monratino The Orange Farmstay - Darjeeling

Cinchonna Farmstay

Stuv's Homestay (1 Bhk) Home That Feels Yours

Rock Garden Superview Bungalow 2

Bliss Wooden Bungalow Valley View

Chimney Farmstay

Deluxe Cozy Nature Bungalow

City Centre House With Lovely Garden

The Sylvan Vistas Luxury 3 Bhk Apartment

Dhim

Best family friendly China unique stays

The Tranquil Farm Stay

Mandarin Resort - Kaluk

Dream Adventure Mongolia

The Happy Bungalow In The Happy Forest!

Top cities

Best China unique stays with a pool

Bungalow Ven Hồ Tựa Núi

The Edge Villa And Retreat: Modern Luxury Escape

Frequently asked questions about unique stays in China

Best China unusual places with a garden

Yes Homes Naranga Farmstay

Green Wings Homestays By Stayapart , Zoom , West Sikkim

Palighar Farmstay