Hanoi

Hanoi Overview

Chinese Name: English IPA: Location: Population (city): Language: Zip code: Tel code: Time zone:

Traveling from Hanoi, Vietnam, to China is a great way to explore the vast landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures that make up this fascinating country. This guide provides you with essential details on where to visit in China, travel options, visa requirements, transportation guides, and suggested travel packages from Hanoi.

Best Time to Visit China from Hanoi

Best Seasons for Traveling to China:

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the ideal times to visit China, offering mild weather, clear skies, and fewer tourists.
Summer (June to August) is the peak season in most parts of China, with warmer temperatures but also heavy rainfall, especially in southern regions.
Winter (December to February) can be cold in the north (like Beijing and Xian), but it’s also a good time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices.

Major Destinations in China

Beijing: The Capital of China

Attractions: Great Wall of China, Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Autumn for mild weather.
Why Visit: As China’s capital, Beijing is home to some of the country’s most iconic landmarks, showcasing imperial history and culture.

Xian: Ancient Heart of China

Attractions: Terracotta Army, Ancient City Wall, Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Autumn for pleasant temperatures.
Why Visit: Famous for the Terracotta Warriors, Xian is the starting point of the Silk Road and a must-visit for history lovers.

Shanghai: The Modern Metropolis

Attractions: The Bund, Yu Garden, Shanghai Tower, Nanjing Road.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Autumn for the most comfortable weather.
Why Visit: Shanghai is a global financial hub, blending modern skyscrapers with traditional Chinese culture.

Chengdu: The Panda Capital

Attractions: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Jinli Ancient Street, Wuhou Shrine.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Autumn when temperatures are pleasant.
Why Visit: Visit Chengdu to see giant pandas and explore the spicy Sichuan cuisine.

Hong Kong: The Global City

Attractions: Victoria Peak, Hong Kong Disneyland, Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, Temple Street Night Market.
Best Time to Visit: Autumn and Spring for milder temperatures and clear skies.
Why Visit: Known for its skyline and bustling markets, Hong Kong offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition.

Yunnan: Natural Beauty and Diversity

Attractions: Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, Shangri-La, Tiger Leaping Gorge, Pudacuo National Park.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Autumn.
Why Visit: Yunnan is famous for its diverse ethnic cultures and stunning landscapes, including the ancient towns of Lijiang and Dali.

Tibet: The Roof of the World

Attractions: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Namtso Lake.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (May to August).
Why Visit: Tibet offers unparalleled natural beauty, Tibetan culture, and spiritual sites that attract travelers from all over the world.

How to Travel from Hanoi to Major Cities in China

Here are the best travel options to reach some of China’s most popular destinations from Hanoi.

By Air: Quickest and Most Convenient

Flights from Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport) to major cities in China are the most efficient way to travel. Here are some of the popular flights:

Hanoi to Beijing

Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours.
Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, Air China, China Southern.

Hanoi to Xian

Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours.
Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, China Eastern Airlines.

Hanoi to Shanghai

Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours.
Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines.

Hanoi to Hong Kong

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
Airlines: Cathay Pacific, Vietnam Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines.

Hanoi to Guangzhou

Duration: Approximately 3 hours.
Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, China Southern Airlines.

Hanoi to Chengdu

Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours.
Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, Sichuan Airlines.

Hanoi to Kunming

Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours.
Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, China Eastern Airlines.

By Train: For Scenic and Comfortable Travel

Trains are another viable option for travel between Hanoi and several Chinese cities, especially those in southern and central China.

Hanoi to Nanning (Guangxi)

Duration: About 12-14 hours.
Train: Regular trains from Hanoi to Nanning (via Dong Dang, Vietnam).
Connection: From Nanning, take a train to other cities like Guangzhou or Shenzhen.

Hanoi to Beijing

Route: Take a train from Hanoi to Dong Dang (Vietnam-China border), then connect to a train to Beijing via Nanning and Kunming. Total travel time can range from 24-30 hours.

By Bus: Overland Travel

Buses from Hanoi to Guangzhou, Shenzhen, or Nanning are available. This is a longer option but can be a budget-friendly alternative.

Duration: Buses to Nanning or Guangzhou can take about 15-20 hours.

By Cruise: Scenic Ocean Travel

Route: Cruises from Ho Chi Minh City or Hong Kong to Shanghai, Guangzhou, or Shenzhen are available.
Duration: Cruises usually take several days to reach their destination, providing a leisurely way to travel.

China Visa for Vietnamese Citizens

Vietnamese citizens need a Chinese tourist visa to visit most areas of China. Here’s what you’ll need for your visa application:

Required Documents:

Passport (valid for at least six months)
Visa Application Form
Recent passport-size photo
Travel itinerary (flight tickets, hotel reservations)
Proof of financial means (bank statements or income proof)
Visa fee: Payment required, varies by visa type and duration.

Visa Application Process:

Submit your application at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang.
Processing time: Around 4-5 working days (expedited options available).

Travel Tour Packages from Hanoi to China

If you prefer a guided experience, many travel agencies offer China tour packages from Hanoi. Here are a few popular options:

7 Days Beijing & Shanghai Tour

Itinerary: Visit Beijing (Great Wall, Forbidden City) and Shanghai (Yu Garden, The Bund).
Best for: First-time visitors to China wanting to explore its most iconic cities.

10 Days Yunnan Adventure Tour

Itinerary: Explore Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La, with visits to Tiger Leaping Gorge and Pudacuo National Park.
Best for: Nature lovers and those interested in ethnic cultures.

5 Days Hong Kong & Macau Experience

Itinerary: Explore Hong Kong (Victoria Peak, Disneyland) and Macau (Ruins of St. Paul’s, Venetian Casino).
Best for: Urban exploration and entertainment.

Travel Tips for China

Language: Mandarin is the official language. Learning a few basic phrases or using translation apps can be helpful, especially in rural areas.
Currency: The currency in China is Chinese Yuan (CNY). Credit cards are accepted in cities, but carry cash for rural areas.
Food: Chinese cuisine varies greatly by region. Be adventurous and try local dishes in each city.
Customs & Etiquette: Be respectful of Chinese traditions. For example, always greet people with a handshake and avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics.
Internet Access: Popular websites like Google and Facebook are blocked in China. Consider using a VPN to access these sites.