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.

Jade in Chinese Culture: Stone of Heaven - Chinese Culture Guide

The revered jade stone in China — types, symbolism, carving traditions, and how to identify authentic jade jewelry.

Jade's Cultural Significance

Jade (yu) has been valued in China for 8,000 years, longer than gold. Confucius associated jade with virtues: benevolence, righteousness, wisdom, courage, and purity. Jade amulets protect wearers from harm. Imperial seals were carved from jade. The phrase "gold has a price, jade is priceless" reflects its cultural value beyond monetary worth.

Types of Jade

Nephrite: Traditional Chinese jade, ranging from white to dark green. Softer and more common. Jadeite: Harder, brighter green, imported from Myanmar. More valuable. Hetian jade (Xinjiang): Prized white nephrite, historically reserved for emperors. Feicui: High-quality jadeite with vivid green color. Understanding types helps buyers avoid counterfeits.

Jade Carving Traditions

Master carvers spend years training to work with jade's hardness. Traditional motifs include dragons, phoenixes, bats, and peaches. Modern pieces feature abstract designs. Carving tools range from ancient stone drills to modern diamond bits. A single pendant may take weeks to complete. Signed pieces by renowned masters command premium prices.

Buying Jade in China

Authentic jade requires expertise to identify. Buy from reputable dealers with certificates. Test: real jade feels cold, has natural inclusions, and produces a clear ring when tapped. Prices range from ¥100 for simple beads to ¥100,000+ for master carvings. Beware of dyed or plastic imitations sold as jade. Ask for return policies.

Jade Jewelry and Care

Jade is worn as pendants, bracelets, rings, and earrings. It's believed to absorb negative energy and protect health. Clean with soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures. Store separately to prevent scratching. Regular wearing polishes jade naturally. Many believe jade changes color as it absorbs the wearer's qi.