Do I need a visa to travel to China in 2026?

China offers 30-day visa-free entry for citizens of 50+ countries including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, and Singapore. A 240-hour (10-day) transit visa-free policy is available for 53 countries at major airports. For others, a tourist visa (L Visa) is required.

What is included in a QTour private China tour?

Every QTour booking includes a private English-speaking guide, private air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver, all entrance fees, hotel accommodations, daily breakfast, and airport/train station transfers. An optional professional photographer with DSLR and drone is available. No shopping stops, no group sharing.

What is the best time to visit China?

Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-November) are the best times to visit most of China with mild weather and clear skies. Summer (June-August) is ideal for Tibet, Inner Mongolia, and high-altitude areas. Winter (December-February) is perfect for Harbin Ice Festival and fewer crowds.

How much does a private China tour cost?

A private China tour with 4-star hotels typically costs $150-300 per person per day, including guide, driver, vehicle, hotels, entrance fees, and domestic transport. Budget tours start from $100/day, luxury tours from $350/day. QTour offers free itinerary customization with no hidden fees.

Is China safe for tourists in 2026?

China is one of the safest countries for tourists with very low violent crime rates. Major cities have excellent public transportation, widespread English signage in tourist areas, and 24/7 police presence. QTour provides 24/7 emergency support for all booked clients.

Can I customize my China tour itinerary?

Absolutely. Every QTour tour is fully customizable. You can choose destinations, adjust pace, add or remove attractions, select hotel categories, and specify dietary requirements. Our travel experts will create a personalized itinerary within 24 hours at no extra cost.

Chinese Lunar Calendar: Timekeeping and Astronomy - Chinese Culture Guide

Understanding the Chinese lunar calendar — how it works, solar terms, auspicious dates, and why it still matters in modern China.

How the Lunar Calendar Works

The Chinese calendar is lunisolar, combining lunar months with solar years. Months begin with the new moon (29-30 days). Twelve lunar months total 354 days, so a leap month is added every 2-3 years to align with the solar year. The calendar was standardized during the Han Dynasty and refined over centuries by imperial astronomers.

24 Solar Terms

The calendar divides the year into 24 solar terms, each lasting about 15 days. These mark seasonal changes crucial for agriculture: Start of Spring, Rain Water, Awakening of Insects, Spring Equinox, etc. Farmers traditionally planted and harvested according to these terms. Today, they still influence food choices, health practices, and festival timing.

Auspicious Dates

The almanac (tongshu) lists auspicious and inauspicious dates for activities like weddings, moving house, starting businesses, and traveling. Dates are evaluated based on celestial positions, zodiac compatibility, and elemental balance. Many Chinese consult the almanac before major life events. Digital apps now provide personalized auspicious date recommendations.

Zodiac and Elements

Each year combines a zodiac animal with one of five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, water), creating a 60-year cycle. For example, 2024 is Wood Dragon, 2025 is Wood Snake, 2026 is Fire Horse. The element affects personality traits and fortune predictions. This system is used in astrology, feng shui, and traditional medicine.

Calendar in Modern Life

While China uses the Gregorian calendar for business and government, the lunar calendar remains culturally significant. Festivals, birthdays (especially for elders), and ancestral worship follow lunar dates. Many people celebrate both solar and lunar birthdays. Wedding dates are chosen from the almanac. The calendar connects modern Chinese to their agricultural heritage.