Why You Should Travel to China in 2026

China quietly disappeared from most travellers’ plans for years, but in 2026, it’s coming back and not in the way many people expected. Entry is easier. Payments finally work. Crowds haven’t fully returned. And for travellers willing to step outside the usual backpacker banana pancake route, China feels refreshingly new again.

China Is Finally Open (Properly)

China’s travel comeback didn’t happen overnight though. Instead of a sudden reopening, the country has been gradually reintroducing international travel and refining the system as it goes.

By 2026, travellers are benefiting from more predictable entry processes, clearer digital arrival requirements and improved infrastructure for foreign visitors.

If you’re planning your first trip since pre-2020, you’ll notice a smoother experience than many expected.

If you want a full breakdown of the latest entry process, including digital forms, read our new China online arrival card update.

Fewer Crowds Than Pre-COVID (For Now)

While destinations like Japan, Thailand and much of Europe are dealing with over-tourism, China is still in a recovery phase. Tourist numbers are rising, but many iconic places are noticeably less crowded than they were pre-COVID.

This means, easier train bookings, shorter queues at major attractions and more availability in mid-range accommodation.

For travellers who like seeing places before they become saturated again, this window won’t last forever.

This post-reopening phase is exactly when destinations are at their best, accessible, but not yet overwhelmed.

China Is More Budget-Friendly Than You Might Expect

China has had a reputation for being expensive, but day-to-day travel costs can often surprise first-time visitors.

In many cities, you can expect:

Affordable local food

Cheap public transport

Reasonably priced domestic trains

Good value accommodation outside luxury districts

Compared to Japan or Western Europe, China can be far more forgiving on a daily budget especially once you understand how the local payments work.

If you’re planning your finances, keeping track of spending across regions and currencies becomes essential on longer trips.

Digital Payments Actually Work for Foreigners Now

Cashless payments were once one of China’s biggest barriers for visitors, but that’s changed.

In 2026, foreign travellers can realistically get by using:

International cards linked to local payment apps

QR payments in most cities

App-based transport and food ordering

It’s still a little different from travelling in Southeast Asia and Europe, but it’s no longer a deal-breaker.

For a practical breakdown of what essential apps you should have on your phone before arriving, read our guide to essential apps for travelling to China.

Budgeting for a Trip to China in 2026

Daily costs can change quickly between cities, regions and transport types, especially when everything runs through digital payments. Tracking spending as you go makes a huge difference on longer trips, particularly if China is part of a wider Asia itinerary.

Tools that help you log expenses in real time, handle multiple currencies and spot overspending early can remove a lot of friction, especially in cash-light countries like China.

China Offers a Completely Different Travel Experience

Even seasoned travellers are often caught off guard by how varied China is.

Within one trip, you can experience:

Mega-cities with ultra-modern skylines

Traditional villages and historic towns

Mountain regions, deserts and rice terraces

Regional cuisines that feel like different countries

If you’ve already “done” Southeast Asia or parts of Europe, China feels genuinely new, not just another variation of the same backpacker route.

It Fits Perfectly Into a Wider Asia Trip

China is becoming easier to combine with neighbouring destinations again.

Many travellers in 2026 are:

Adding China to longer Southeast Asia trips

Using it as a stop between East Asia and Europe

Exploring overland routes and regional flights

If you’re travelling long-term or planning a multi-country itinerary, China no longer feels like a logistical headache just another (very big) chapter.

For context on how China’s return is affecting regional travel, read our China's Travel Come Back article.

Final Thoughts: Why Go Now?

China won’t stay under-visited forever.

As systems improve and confidence returns, tourism numbers will continue rising. By travelling in 2026, you’re catching China at a rare moment, open, accessible, and most importantly not yet overwhelmed.

China isn’t just open again. In 2026, it’s quietly one of the most underrated trips you can take.