Entertainment In China
Back to all travel tipsTime at leisure:
If you have some time at leisure whilst in China, we have outlined a few excursions you may want to arrange locally.
Cycling (Yangshuo)
The picturesque terrain and villages around Yangshuo are ideal for exploring on two wheels, and there are several popular bike rides taking a half or full day, depending on your available time and fitness / ability levels. Most routes start from West Street in central Yangshuo, where you will find the best choice of bicycles to hire. Many hotels also hire a limited selection of bicycles, so ask your guide and hotel staff for more information and advice when planning your ride through the countryside around Yangshuo.
Cycling the City Walls (Xi'an)
Cycling Xian's city walls is a great way to spend a spare morning or afternoon, enjoying an easy and safe cycling experience in China. Bicycles are available to hire on top of the wall near the South Gate Tower. The ride can take anything from 30 minutes to 3 hours, and it is best to head around the wall in an anti-clockwise direction. Ask your guide for details about prices.
Cangshan Mountains (Dali)
The Cangshan mountain range, on the west side of Dali Old Town, is accessible by cable car which takes about half an hour and costs 30 RMB each way, plus a 30 RMB fee to enter the mountain area. The cable car operates from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm (make sure to give yourself enough time to get back to the cable car station for the return journey to Dali). There are also hiking routes in the Cangshan mountain range that take you to lakes, waterfalls, peaks and temples. A more challenging route descends from the mountain top to Dali, from close to the cable car. Please ask your local guide for advice if you are planning on a hike, and please watch the altitude (over 4000m) at the top.
Victoria Peak Tram (Hong Kong)
There are so many things to do in Hong Kong that you could easily spend a week here, but if you only have time to do one thing, make it a trip up to Victoria Peak. One of those attractions that really does live up to its reputation, no amount of shopping centres or tourists can detract from the spectacular views over one of the world's most unique cities. Try to time your visit to coincide with sunset, so you can witness Hong Kong's transition from day to night, as the lights come on and the city comes alive. Riding the Peak Tram is an experience in its own right, the steep gradient making it an exciting way to ascend to the top. If you find yourself with more time in Hong Kong, try visiting some of the city's wonderful parks or botanical gardens, explore the old alleyways and markets in Kowloon, or head out to one of the surprisingly serene islands. For example, Lamma Island, where no cars are permitted.
Evening Entertainment:
We have outlined below a few suggestions for evening entertainment. Your guide will be on hand to assist with making the necessary booking and advising on transportation to and from the shows.
Night Market (Beijing)
For an evening out visit the bustling night food market near Wangfujing, where you can find anything from chicken to cicadas being barbecued on skewers. Other delicacies include Inner Mongolian cheese, stuffed eggplants, chicken hearts and pita bread stuffed with meat. It's not an entirely authentic experience, but it is a fun atmosphere and prices are all marked and in English.
Acrobatic Show (Beijing & Shanghai)
A hugely entertaining show for all ages, similar to the popular "Cirque Du Soleil". The stunts are jaw dropping and will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout the 90 minute performance (with an interval). Not to be missed!
Peking Opera (Beijing) / Sichuan Opera (Chengdu)
The classical theatre for the masses bears little resemblance to its European counterpart. It is a mixture of singing, dancing, speaking, mime, acrobatics and dancing that can be quite hard to follow. Its Sichuan counterpart is even older, and offers the chance to marvel at the tradition of face-changing, the secret to which is closely guarded by those who can perform it.
Liu Sanjie Show (Yangshuo)
In Yangshuo the Liu Sanjie show, is a spectacular production, based on a 1960s musical, with a cast of 500 singers, dancers, bamboo boats and cormorant fisherman performing with the Li River and limestone pinnacles as the backdrop. As the show only takes place in good weather it is advisable to book tickets locally.