Experience the New Attractions in China Post-Pandemic
After three long years of zero travel, China has reopened its doors to international visitors at last. From palaces to pandas to perfectly pleated soup dumplings, the myriad treasures of the Middle Kingdom are once again within reach. However, if you’re thinking nothing much changed during China’s zero-COVID hiatus, think again. Whether you’re a China newbie or a return visitor, here are just a few of the new post-pandemic highlights you can expect.
Discover “New” History in Beijing
The past looms large in China’s capital – and nowhere more so than the Palace Museum, better known as the Forbidden City. Home of 24 emperors over two dynasties, the world’s biggest palace complex turned 600 in 2020. In the run-up to this milestone, restoration work on areas never before open to the public had been underway. Consequently, the rollout of these newly refurbished areas continues, enhancing your visit.
For a more intimate experience, the small, beautifully curated Poly Art Museum has started staging regular exhibits of Forbidden City treasures. Other ancient buildings, including Huangshicheng, Beijing’s imperial archive, have also opened to the public for the first time, contributing to the preservation of the capital’s historic central axis.
Elsewhere, the gorgeous Wanshou Temple opened in 2022 after five years of renovations. This site was formerly a ceremonial stop-off for the imperial family when they traveled by canal boat.
Visit Brand-New, World-Class Art Museums
The Museum of Art Pudong (MAP) touched down in 2021 in Shanghai. A showcase of Chinese and global contemporary art, its white-granite-clad building, designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, is an artistic statement itself. Similarly, the massive M+ in Hong Kong, opened in 2021, aims to be a leading center for visual culture, devoting 700,000 sq ft (65,000 sq m) to exhibitions.
Bring the Kids to China’s First Universal Studios Theme Park
Fans of Harry Potter, Transformers, Minions, and other mega-franchises can experience the thrill of Asia’s third Universal Studios, which opened in 2021 in Beijing. Situated on the outskirts of the city and served by a dedicated subway stop, the park boasts attractions such as the Jurassic World Adventure and the Transformers-themed Decepticoaster, making it a perfect family destination.
Sip a Cocktail at One of Asia’s Best Bars
Hong Kong has long been a great place for a vibrant nightlife scene. Despite the pandemic restrictions, the city racked up no fewer than eight mentions in Asia’s “50 Best” bars ranking for 2022. At the top spot was Coa Hong Kong, a cocktail bar crafting unique concoctions. Moreover, Argo uses sustainably sourced ingredients to mix delicious cocktails while raising climate change awareness.
Explore the Most Remote Parts of the Great Wall
For almost a quarter of a century, Great Wall expert William Lindesay has been running immersive Great Wall tours from his rural farmhouse north of Beijing. These weekend-long escapes explore the wild Jiankou section of the wall, and involve spectacular sunrise hikes and insightful lectures. Following the post-pandemic resurgence, his company is branching out with an adventurous series of week-long tours to remote sites along the Great Wall.
Enjoy Hassle-Free Train Travel at Last
High-speed trains are a fantastic way to explore China. It’s now easier than ever to navigate the world’s largest HSR network thanks to a ticketless system launched recently. You can book tickets online through international portals and quickly pass through station barriers using only your passport.
Hit the Slopes at China’s Olympic Ski Resorts
Following the 2022 Winter Olympics, China now offers an extensive selection of winter sports facilities. Skiers can easily travel to Zhangjiakou, where the Olympic facilities await. Thaiwoo Ski Resort is ideal for beginners, while other resorts provide a variety of thrilling runs and challenges for all skill levels. Additionally, the Ice Ribbon in Beijing serves as the speed-skating arena dedicated to Olympic competitions.
