15-Day Tropical Adventure in China's Southern Provinces
A 15-day journey through China’s tropical regions.
Discover China’s Tropical Gems Without a Visa
China’s southern provinces offer a perfect blend of stunning beaches, rich culture, and lush landscapes. This 15-day itinerary takes advantage of the new visa-free policy for certain nationalities, allowing you to explore the best of Hainan Island, Guangdong Province, and Yunnan Province.
Visa-Free Policy Overview
Before we start, it’s important to understand the visa-free policy:
- 30-day Visa-free policy.
- This policy applies to business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, and transit purposes.
💡 Tip: Always check the latest visa policies before your trip, as regulations can change.
Days 1-5: Hainan Island Paradise
Days 1-3: Sanya (三亚) - The Hawaii of China
- Arrive at Sanya Phoenix International Airport
- Relax at Yalong Bay or Dadonghai Beach
- Visit Nanshan Temple and the 108m tall Guanyin statue
- Enjoy fresh seafood at Sanya Bay
Where to Stay:
Explore Sanya with:
💡 Tip: Don’t miss the stunning sunsets at Sanya Bay!
Days 4-5: Haikou (海口) - Capital Charms
- Travel to Haikou by high-speed rail
- Visit the colonial-style Qilou Old Street (骑楼老街)
- Explore Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark
- Relax at Holiday Beach
Where to Stay:
Explore Haikou with:
Days 6-10: Guangdong’s Urban Tropics
Days 6-8: Guangzhou (广州) - City of Flowers
- Fly from Haikou to Guangzhou
- Visit Canton Tower for panoramic city views
- Explore Shamian Island’s colonial architecture
- Take a Pearl River night cruise
- Experience Cantonese cuisine at Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street
Where to Stay:
Explore Guangzhou with:
💡 Tip: Try dim sum for breakfast at a traditional tea house!
Days 9-10: Shenzhen (深圳) - Modern Marvels and Nature
- Take a high-speed train to Shenzhen
- Visit Window of the World theme park
- Explore OCT Loft creative culture park
- Hike in Wutong Mountain for stunning city views
- Relax at Dameisha Beach
Where to Stay:
Explore Shenzhen with:
Days 11-15: Yunnan’s Diverse Landscapes
Days 11-13: Kunming (昆明) - Spring City
- Fly from Shenzhen to Kunming
- Explore the Stone Forest (Shilin) geological park
- Visit Green Lake Park and Yuantong Temple
- Take a day trip to the Western Hills and Dragon Gate
Where to Stay:
Explore Kunming with:
Days 14-15: Lijiang (丽江) - Ancient Town and Nature
- Take a high-speed train to Lijiang
- Wander through Lijiang Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Visit Black Dragon Pool for views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
- Experience Naxi culture and cuisine
Where to Stay:
Explore Lijiang with:
💡 Tip: Try Yunnan’s famous “Crossing the Bridge” noodles!
Practical Tips for Your Tropical China Adventure
- Weather: Pack for varied climates. Hainan and Guangdong are tropical, while Yunnan can be cooler, especially in Lijiang.
- Transportation: High-speed trains connect major cities. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are convenient for local travel.
- Language: English is less common in some areas. A translation app can be helpful.
- Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples and traditional villages.
Best Time to Visit
- October to April is ideal for Hainan and Guangdong, with less rainfall and more comfortable temperatures.
- Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit Yunnan.
- Avoid Chinese national holidays when domestic tourism peaks.
Culinary Delights to Try
- Hainan: Wenchang chicken (文昌鸡), Dongshan lamb (东山羊肉), Jiaji duck (嘉积鸭)
- Guangdong : Dim sum (广式点心), roast goose (烧鹅), wonton noodles (云吞面)
- Yunnan: Crossing the Bridge noodles (过桥米线), Rushan (乳扇 Yunnan cheese), Xuanwei ham (宣威火腿)