China

Exercise increased caution when traveling to Mainland China due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including in relation to exit bans. Exercise increased caution when traveling to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws.

Yes, an American can go to China, though most visitors require a visa for stays longer than 10 days, which can be obtained from a Chinese embassy or consulate before travel. There is a 10-day visa-free entry for certain purposes, but it requires a valid passport, an onward ticket to a third country, and may be subject to examination and approval at the border. Standard Tourist/Business Visas are for stays over 10 days or for purposes other than the visa-free categories. A Z Visa is for employment, and an X Visa is for student purposes.

China's top three must-visit attractions are the Great Wall of China, an ancient architectural marvel stretching across northern China; the Terracotta Army in Xi'an, featuring thousands of life-sized clay soldiers; and the Forbidden City in Beijing, a magnificent imperial palace complex that served as the home of Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years. These iconic sites offer incredible insights into China's rich history and cultural heritage.

The best times to visit China are generally spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). These seasons offer pleasant weather across most of the country, with comfortable temperatures and less rainfall, making them ideal for exploring its diverse attractions, from the bustling cities to the natural wonders.

When visiting China, be sure to indulge in its diverse culinary landscape. Must-try dishes include Peking Duck, known for its crispy skin and tender meat; Sichuan hot pot, a fiery and flavorful experience; dim sum, a selection of small Cantonese dishes; and xiaolongbao, delicate soup dumplings. Each region offers unique and delicious specialties to explore.