Home to the largest population on the planet, China tops our list for the sheer volume and variety of experiences on offer for students. Being one of the four ancient civilisations, there is endless culture and heritage for students to absorb on an educational travel program in China. Not only is China rich in history, but it is a major global player at the forefront of industry and innovation in the modern world.
With some of the largest cities in the world, China is constantly pushing the boundaries of technology. Students will go behind the scenes on guided tours of major manufacturing plants, visit museums, laboratories and organisations devoted to science and technology. They’ll learn about China’s use of science and technology in ancient and recent times.
With 37 UNESCO World Heritage sites under its belt, students will also marvel at breathtaking natural and manmade wonders of the world.
This handy travel guide designed specifically for teachers and students will help you plan your trip and pack your bags for China.
China – events and attractions
Forbidden City, Beijing – As the largest ancient palatial structure in the world, the Forbidden City nearby Tiananmen Square is a must-see. Learn the modern history of China as you explore the living and governing quarters of the Ming and Qing Dynasty emperors within the Imperial Palace. Be amazed by nationally prised works of art and architecture and lavish traditional gardens
Terracotta Army, Xi’an – Constructed in 210 – 259 B.C. and regarded as one of the greatest archaeological sites in the world, the Terracotta Army is a sculptural masterpiece and a testament to human ability. Comprised of thousands of detailed life-sized warriors, the army was created to safeguard the first emperor in the afterlife and celebrate the triumph that united China
Mount Qingcheng, Sichuan – Journey to the birthplace of Taoism, a religious view deeply rooted in Chinese culture, and explore historic Palaces among the famously peaceful and lush natural environment on Mount Qingcheng
Nanjing Road, Shanghai – For shopaholics, a visit to the world’s most renowned shopping street is an obvious inclusion. The ever-bustling Nanjing Road is the epicentre for fashion in china, with countless specialty stores and traditional outlets selling the big brands and high quality goods
Student packing list
The voltage in China in 220 Volt, you will not need an adapter.
Earplugs – The main cities of China can get pretty hectic, pack earplugs to be sure that building construction or traffic won’t keep you awake
Lubricating eye drops and nasal spray – With so many people, air pollution in China is sometimes severe, protect your eyes and nose with eye drops and nasal spray
Small gifts from home – Particularly in rural areas, the locals will be delighted to inspect and talk about your mementos from home
Other handy travel items:
- Portable charger
- Hanging toiletries bag including essential medicines
- Tissues and sanitizer
- Travel daypack
China travel tips
The currency of China is the Yuan.
1 AUD = 5.1 CNY
FX calculation made on 31/07/2018
Average prices China
Meal: 30 ¥ or $6 AUD
Regular Coffee: 30 ¥ or $6 AUD
One-way train ticket: 4 ¥ or $.82 AUD
Mid-range Nike shoes: 637 ¥ or $130 AUD
The official language in China is Mandarin.
Useful Chinese phrases for teachers and students
| English phrase | Chinese translation |
| Hello, my name is Fred | Ni hao, wo jiao Fred |
| Please / Thank-you | Qing / Xie-xie |
| Excuse me | Buhaoyisi |
| How much does this cost? | Duoshao qian? |
| Do you speak English? | Ni hui shuo yingwen ma? |
Climate in China
China’s climate is mainly dominated by dry seasons and wet monsoons, which lead to pronounced temperature differences between winter and summer.
Winter: Dec – Feb (cold and dry winds)
Summer: Jun – Aug (warm and humid winds)
Time zone
Despite its size, China operates on one time zone (GMT +8). There is no Daylight Savings in China.
Other travel tips for China
- The internet is censored in China, so you will need a VPN to view Facebook and some other sites
- Brush up on some basic vocabulary, the locals will be over the moon if you attempt to speak Mandarin
- Get ready to bargain, you’ll often be quoted highly inflated prices at first
- Avoid buying electronics, there are too many fake or faulty products in China for a non-local to discern between
Fun facts
The average person in China will only learn 5,000 of the 20,000 characters used in the Chinese language.
