Female Solo Travel in China: Discover Hidden Gems and Travel Safely

For far too long, I avoided this country out of fear: national security concerns, the language barrier, such a different culture, complicated visa procedures... What a mistake that was.

My first trip to China completely transformed my perspective on travel. It's a destination where you need to stay alert every single day as a female traveler, because you're going to discover incredible surprises around every corner. From the hidden terraces of the Forbidden City to the bustling streets of Shanghai, and the breathtaking landscapes of Zhangjiajie: if you're planning to visit this magical region of Asia as a woman, brace yourself... it's impossible to regret the experience.

With a solid itinerary and my best tips, solo female travel in China becomes a breeze. You'll be able to go with the flow once you're there without any worry of making mistakes, and the female hosts from NomadSister will always have fascinating stories to share with you.

In my humble opinion: stop making things complicated and just dive right in!

Table of Contents:

Solo female travel safety in China
The most beautiful destinations for solo female travel in China
Recommended itineraries for traveling in China as a woman
Off-the-beaten-path places to explore in China
Trip preparation: budget, accommodation, transportation, visa
Best activities for solo female travelers in China
When to visit China to make the most of your solo trip
Tips for your first solo female trip to China

My Safety Tips for Women Traveling Alone in China

I already know what you're going to tell me.

Your parents, your friends, your grandmother... everyone chimes in with their worried little comments when you announce you're going to travel solo in China as a woman, right? I also got the full festival of stereotypes and warnings.

"But honey, what if you get lost?" "Do you know the risks for a girl all alone?" "You don't even speak Chinese, how are you going to manage?"

In short, a good number of the usual anxious questions that made me doubt myself until the very last moment.

But listen to me carefully: the reality is very different from what we imagine. I discovered a country where public safety is excellent and where you can wander around alone without looking over your shoulder every five minutes.

So let's go, let's separate fact from fiction together.

Is China a Safe Country for Solo Female Travelers?

Yes, absolutely.

China is one of the safest countries I've visited. The crime statistics are ridiculously low compared to what we know back home. Even at 11 PM in the streets of major Chinese cities, I always felt completely safe, even late into the evening.

I grew up in the Paris suburbs, in an area where you have to watch your bag as soon as you step outside. In China, it's the complete opposite. I left my laptop, camera, and all my belongings on a terrace for two hours. Nothing was touched.

Street Harassment in China: Myth or Reality?

This is something that really struck me. Chinese culture places respect for women very high in its values. Curious looks toward foreign women are more related to benevolent curiosity.

Sure, there can be some slight cultural misunderstandings (for example when an elderly gentleman absolutely wants to take your photo because you have blonde hair) but never in an inappropriate or unhealthy way.

Of course, like everywhere on this planet, some isolated cases can exist, but statistically, it's completely marginal. So you can travel with peace of mind.

Potential Dangers and How to Avoid Them

Well, don't put words in my mouth. There are obviously some classic tourist scams.

I quickly learned to spot those famously "super-friendly" students who approach you near the Forbidden City to "practice their English"... Spoiler alert: they always end up taking you to an overpriced tea house.

Remember to install a VPN before arriving and be wary of fake QR codes. Scams exist, but with a little common sense (which you have, I'm sure), you'll avoid all that effortlessly.

Useful Apps and Contacts to Stay Calm

WeChat and Didi are your new best friends. Essential for everything, from paying for your bubble tea to calling a taxi, they're really helpful. Didi is their local Uber: super practical and secure. Don't forget to install a solid VPN before departure - ExpressVPN or NordVPN will do the trick.

And above all, keep your embassy contacts saved in your phone. Also join some French-speaking female traveler groups on WeChat: these women are real goldmines for great tips and last-minute suggestions.

The official NomadSister site remains a reliable source if you have any doubts or need advice from other female travelers experienced in solo adventures.

The Most Beautiful Destinations for Solo Female Travel in China

Choosing where to set down your suitcases in China is a bit like wandering through Ali Baba's cave. Of course, there are the must-sees (and trust me, they're must-sees for good reasons), but I also encourage you to venture off the beaten path. It's there, in those unexpected moments, that we have the most incredible and authentic experiences.

Beijing: Imperial Culture and Modernity

Beijing, nicknamed Peking by us, literally left me speechless. Just imagine: you're strolling through the Forbidden City in the morning, and in the afternoon you're sipping a latte in an ultra-modern designer café.

That's the crazy charm of the capital.

And then there are districts like Wangfujing that are absolutely perfect for us solo female travelers: incredibly safe, vibrant without being overwhelming, and the local cuisine is simply divine. My goodness, those dumplings! I'm still drooling just thinking about them.

The most enchanting area features the traditional hutongs, those narrow alleyways where you'll encounter elderly ladies playing mahjong... it's like stepping back in time.

My favorite spot: the avant-garde bookstore "Page One" tucked away in the 798 Art District. A concentrate of artistic modernity where I spent entire hours browsing, observing the incredibly creative Beijing youth and drinking teas with incredible flavors.

Xi'an: Following in the Footsteps of Emperors

I felt a bit intimidated facing the Terracotta Army in Xi'an. And I'm not mincing words. This ancient capital of the Silk Road breathes history.

You stroll along the city walls at sunset, and you wander through the alleyways of the Muslim quarter where the spice aromas go straight to your head…

I loved getting lost (intentionally) in the local markets. They're overflowing with colorful stalls, vendors who smile at you even without speaking your language, all with very warm authenticity.

My favorite spot: a memorable dinner in a traditional tea house in the Muslim quarter. The authentic atmosphere and flavors that explode in your mouth, that feeling of being transported to another era...

Chengdu: Relaxation, Pandas, and Spicy Cuisine

Chengdu is my anti-stress therapy Chinese version.

This southern Chinese city has a laid-back pace of life that instantly relaxes you. You know, those places where you arrive stressed and leave zen? Well there you go, it's magical.

I spent an entire morning strolling through the parks to observe the adorable giant pandas. Expert recommendation: arrive early in the morning when they're still active for their breakfast.

And above all, hang on tight! I had the opportunity to taste the REAL Sichuanese cuisine: warning, it's spicy!

My favorite spot: that unforgettable morning in People's Park watching the senior dancers and singers. A lesson in Chinese joie de vivre that energized me for the entire day.

Guilin and Yangshuo: Magical Landscapes

The landscapes of Guilin literally took my breath away. You know, those karst formations you see on 20-yuan bills? Well, they actually exist, and it's even more stunning in real life.

I loved cycling through the rice paddies of Yangshuo and sailing on the Li River, armed with just a simple backpack and my camera.

My favorite spot: climbing Xianggong Hill for the sunrise. Okay, waking up at 5 AM (ouch), but it was a moment of pure poetry I'll never forget.

Shanghai: Cosmopolitan and Futuristic Metropolis

Shanghai is China that projects you straight into the future! This metropolis dazzled me with its skyscrapers that defy the laws of physics, its stunning contemporary art museums, and those trendy cafés full of life.

The French Concession district is a perfect little corner of Europe in the heart of Asia. Perfect for us solo female travelers with its secure alleyways, designer boutiques, and its so chic atmosphere.

My favorite spot: those nighttime strolls through the alleyways of Tianzifang when the neon lights come on. The bohemian atmosphere and tiny hidden art galleries create a creative energy that enchanted me.

China Travel Itineraries: 7 Days, 10 Days, 15 Days

Proposing a single itinerary for traveling in China is an almost impossible mission. This country is so immense that each province would deserve its own itinerary. But hey, I'm a bit of a perfectionist, and I've already planned several routes:

7-Day Itinerary: The Express Essentials

Beijing (3 days)

Day 1: Forbidden City in the morning (take your time), Tiananmen Square in the afternoon
Day 2: Great Wall of China, Mutianyu section (less touristy than Badaling)
Day 3: Temple of Heaven and hutong stroll with mandatory tea break

Xi'an (2 days - overnight train from Beijing)

Day 4: Arrival and exploration of the Muslim quarter (those wonderful spice aromas)
Day 5: Terracotta Army (plan the entire day)

Shanghai (2 days)

Day 6: The Bund in the morning, Pudong in the afternoon
Day 7: French Concession and Tianzifang for last souvenirs

10-Day Itinerary: The Perfect Balance

Beijing (3 days)

Same program as above but with more time to savor, especially for museums. The National Museum of China is really worth the visit

Xi'an (2 days)

Bike ride on the walls at sunset. The circuit isn't difficult, so accessible for less adventurous women

Chengdu (2 days)

Visit to the Giant Panda Research Base (prepare to melt)
Exploration of traditional tea houses with mahjong initiation

Shanghai (3 days)

A bonus day for Suzhou and its classical gardens (the train takes 30 minutes)

15-Day Itinerary: Total Immersion

Beijing (3 days)

Complete program with excursion to Ming Tombs (less known but fascinating)

Xi'an (2 days)

A day in Luoyang for the Longmen Grottoes, a breathtaking UNESCO heritage site

Chengdu (3 days)

Excursion to Mount Emei or Jiuzhaigou depending on the season (check weather conditions)

Guilin/Yangshuo (3 days)

Li River cruise at sunset
Bike ride through rice paddies at dawn
Local cooking class with locals

Shanghai (4 days)

In-depth exploration with Hangzhou and its tea plantations: a true paradise

Off-the-Beaten-Path Places to Explore in China

Okay, now that we've covered the classics, let me tell you about these hidden gems that few guides mention but that have marked me for life.

Dali (Yunnan): My Secret Little Paradise

Peaceful with Tibetan influences, Dali completely won me over. Nestled between Erhai Lake and snow-capped mountains, it offers a perfect setting to breathe and reconnect with yourself.

I loved strolling through the cobblestone old town, discovering the fascinating traditions of the Bai minority (their costumes are sublime), and especially, that incredibly relaxed atmosphere that contrasts with the effervescence of major metropolises.

Here, time seems suspended.

Zhangjiajie: Avatar in Real Life

The Hunan National Park directly inspired the dreamlike landscapes of the Avatar movie, and I felt like I was landing on Pandora. Reality far exceeds fiction where rock formations defy the laws of gravity and vegetation is lush.

The sunrise from Tianzi Mountain Peak was almost surreal. I dragged myself out of bed at 5 AM to climb to the summit in complete darkness.

When the first rays pierced through the mist and gradually revealed these rocky peaks floating majestically in the clouds, I felt like I was flying off to another planet.

The national park is relatively uncrowded outside high season, making the experience even more magical and mystical. The cable cars offer breathtaking views of this truly unique autonomous region in the world.

Pingyao: Time Machine

This ancient fortified city has remained perfectly intact since medieval times. Walking through its cobblestone alleyways, I felt like I was traveling back several centuries.

The big plus: very few foreign tourists visit, allowing for ultra-authentic immersion in traditional China. The guesthouses set up in former courtyards are worthy of a movie set.

Preparing Your Trip to Travel with Peace of Mind

Alright, it's time to get into the practical nitty-gritty. Preparation is really the key to a trouble-free and especially serene trip. I'm going to guide you through all the essential precautions: budget (the nerve center), accommodation, transportation, and administrative formalities.

Trust me, proper trip preparation saves you from quite a few hassles on the ground.

What Budget to Plan for Solo Female Travel in China?

The million-yuan question. Forget your Visa card, it barely works anywhere. In China, everything is paid with Alipay or WeChat Pay. I was surprised, but it's really the norm.

Once your account is created and your card linked (do this before leaving), you just scan the merchant's QR code or have them scan yours. It's disorienting at first, but you get used to it quickly.

All in all, for a three-week trip, my total budget came to around £4,300 all-inclusive: flights, accommodation, transport, and food. It's definitely an investment, but it's absolutely worth every penny for the incredible experiences you'll have.

My personal tips to save money without depriving yourself: eat at local restaurants, use public transportation to never experience delays, and book your high-speed train tickets in advance to benefit from preferential rates.

How to Find Affordable and Secure Accommodation?

Youth hostels are perfect for meeting other female travelers. The atmosphere is often super friendly. International hotel chains guarantee a safe and comfortable stay, but obviously cost a bit more.

I also tested staying with locals: I was warmly welcomed by NomadSister female hosts who allowed me to live an extraordinary local adventure, and for free. I tested it in Shanghai and Chengdu: maximum serenity, guaranteed friendliness, and top-quality recommendations.

Getting Around China: All Transportation Methods to Know

High-speed trains are a dream. Lightning fast, punctual to the second, and incredibly comfortable. I systematically book in advance via the official China Railway 12306 app (now also in English).

Didi is their version of ultra-practical Uber in metropolises. Only small downside: always keep your phone well charged.

The subway is very efficient, but remember the security checks at every entrance (as thorough as at the airport).

Buses are economical but frankly exhausting on long distances - avoid if you can.

Documents and Formalities to Know Before Leaving

Excellent news: since November 30, 2024, Europeans are visa-exempt for tourist stays under 30 days. However, travel insurance is essential (you never know).

For more information on visas and other documents, I recommend going to the Chinese government website.

Keep in mind that at customs, they may ask for your itinerary, hotel addresses, etc. Print everything in Chinese if possible. Booking actually offers this option.

Be careful with certain major tourist attractions, such as the Forbidden City, which require online reservation a week in advance. Passport is required for all reservations.

Best Activities for Solo Female Travelers in China

Solo female travel in China offers total freedom to explore at your own pace. No more compromises and "okay let's go now."

I loved meditating in Beijing's Buddhist temples: the serenity that washes over you is indescribable. Wandering through Shanghai's flea markets was a real delight for the senses.

Traditional calligraphy classes are perfect for meeting passionate people who love sharing their art. And cooking classes are amazing for learning the secrets of real Chinese cuisine!

Trust me, what we eat in France has nothing to do with it…

Don't hesitate to participate in morning activities in parks: tai chi with seniors, group dancing, traditional singing, and many others.

You'll be welcomed with open arms. These authentic exchange moments are worth all the museums in the world.

And then Beijing opera shows and canal cruises are also unforgettable experiences to enjoy solo.

When to Visit China to Make the Most of Your Trip

After testing all seasons (yes, I'm a bit obsessive), I strongly recommend spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October).

The temperatures are pleasant in most of the country, and above all, you avoid both the summer crowds and the stifling humidity, which can really spoil the pleasure.

I particularly enjoyed the autumn period in October with those magnificent fiery colors and golden foliage in Beijing's temples.

Winter can be harsh in northern China (-4°F in Harbin, no joke), but it's perfect for discovering the magical Christmas markets and ice sculptures.

However, absolutely avoid Chinese New Year (January-February) and Golden Week in October if you want to escape the vacation crowds.

Tips for Your First Solo Trip to China

A first solo trip to such an exotic country can seem a bit intimidating, but I'm going to help you transform those little apprehensions into pure excitement.

Overcoming the Fear of Solo Female Travel

I had exactly the same fears as you before my first departure. That language barrier that seemed insurmountable, the immensity of the country that made me dizzy…

And you know what? I discovered that gestures, smiles, and human kindness are universal.

The Chinese population is absolutely incredible in their kindness toward foreigners. I was helped out a thousand times by strangers who didn't speak a word of English but who did everything to help me. Sometimes with drawings, gestures, smiles…

This natural kindness transformed my trip into an extraordinary human adventure.

Download translation apps (Google Translate even works offline), just learn "thank you" and "hello" in Chinese, it works miracles.

And above all, trust yourself. If I managed it without speaking a word of Chinese on my first trip, you can do it too.

How to Meet People While Solo Traveling?

"But I'm going to feel lonely, right?" Obviously, you're going to spend time alone, but it's chosen solitude.

Paradoxically, it's when you travel alone that you make the most friends.

Youth hostels regularly organize super fun group outings. WeChat is full of expat and traveler groups - a great resource. I also tried Meetup and Couchsurfing events, perfect for breaking the ice.

To meet other female travelers, Nomadsister is a real gem. I found wonderful travel companions there and gathered precious advice from field experts.

Never hesitate to join activities, even if it seems terrifying: that's where I made my best encounters with Chinese people who were super curious and eager to practice their English.

In the end, the memories you'll keep won't be the photos of the Great Wall. They'll be the exchanges, the laughter, the little moments with the people you meet along your way.

That's the real treasure of a trip.

ITINERARY| TRAVEL

Laëtitia

Traveler

05 Junio 2025

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